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An Architectural Design Proposal for an Indoor Sports Complex at Bingham University Karu Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Hyetson Godswill Iliya, Emmamoge Orewere and Remi Ebenezer Olagunju

Abstract

Recreation is a rewarding activity which an individual voluntarily participates in during leisure time to develop some skills which produce feelings of excitement, relaxation and satisfaction. Nigerian tertiary institutions still lack purpose-built indoor sports complexes that provide year-round, inclusive, and multifunctional facilities. The study addresses the absence of such infrastructure at Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, by proposing an architectural design of an indoor sports complex aimed at optimizing recreational engagement. The research employs a design-based approach informed by universal design principles, spatial efficiency, climatic responsiveness, and sustainable construction strategies. Key design features identified include multipurpose courts, adaptable seating arrangements, barrier-free access, and passive environmental control systems. The proposed facility integrates functionality, aesthetics, and inclusivity to promote all-weather recreational participation while enhancing campus life. The findings underscore the role of architectural innovation in bridging the gap between recreational needs and existing infrastructure limitations in Nigerian universities, offering a model for similar educational contexts.

Keywords

Architectural designIndoor sports complexInclusive designRecreational

References

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