Assessment of the Application of Design Strategies for Thermal Comfort Optimization in Residential Buildings in Abuja, Nigeria

Barnabas Zashimi Zamwawosayi; Henry Emusa; Beatrice Chapi Owoicho

doi:10.56201/ijgem.vol.11.no8.2025.pg56.69

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Assessment of the Application of Design Strategies for Thermal Comfort Optimization in Residential Buildings in Abuja, Nigeria

Barnabas Zashimi Zamwawosayi, Henry Emusa, Beatrice Chapi Owoicho

Abstract

This study assesses the application of architectural design strategies aimed at optimizing thermal comfort in residential buildings across Abuja, Nigeria. Using a mixed-method approach, field surveys, observational checklists, and thermal performance simulations were conducted on 30 residential buildings selected across three income-based districts: Gwarinpa (high-income), Lokogoma (middle-income), and Dutse-Alhaji (low-income). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Ecotect simulations to evaluate the effectiveness of passive cooling features including building orientation, natural ventilation, shading devices, thermal mass, and material usage. The findings revealed significant disparities: while buildings in high-income areas employed moderate levels of passive cooling design, those in low- and middle-income areas showed poor implementation, leading to higher indoor temperatures and increased reliance on active cooling. Notably, proper orientation and cross ventilation contributed to a temperature reduction of up to 4.5°C indoors. The study recommends the enforcement of climate-responsive design standards in residential building codes, targeted education for developers and homeowners, and incentives for incorporating passive strategies in housing projects, particularly within low-cost housing schemes.

References

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Assessment of the Application of Design Strategies for Thermal Comfort Optimization in Residential Buildings in Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

References

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