Integration of Passive Design Strategies for Thermal Performance in the Design of Postgraduate Hostel for Bingham University, Karu
Kambari Adam Mahmud, Labaran D Abalaka PhD and Ayoosu Moses Iorakaa PhD
Abstract
This study investigates the integration of passive design measures in postgraduate hostel facilities at Bingham University, Karu, Nigeria, with the aim of improving thermal comfort, minimizing energy use, and promoting environmental sustainability. The research adopts a mixed-method approach involving field observation, climatic analysis, and simulation-based performance evaluation. Findings reveal that the existing hostel design suffers from poor orientation, insufficient ventilation pathways, high internal heat gains, and inadequate envelope insulation, leading to uncomfortable indoor conditions and high reliance on mechanical cooling. Simulation results demonstrate that reorienting the building, incorporating stack ventilation, external shading devices, high-performance roofing, insulated walls, optimized fenestration, and strategic landscaping can reduce peak indoor temperatures by 7°C, increase thermal comfort hours by 60%, and cut annual cooling energy consumption by nearly 80%. This paper concludes that integrating passive strategies into the design of postgraduate hostels provides a scalable model for sustainable student housing in Nigeria, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Keywords
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