Architectural Strategies for Designing Efficient and Experiential Circulation Systems in Mixed-Use Developments for Port Harcourt

Shaibu; Sarah Anabor; Dimkpa; Kelechukwu; Akani; Chizy

doi:10.56201/ijemt.vol.12.no7.2026.pg1.12

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Architectural Strategies for Designing Efficient and Experiential Circulation Systems in Mixed-Use Developments for Port Harcourt

Shaibu, Sarah Anabor, Dimkpa, Kelechukwu, Akani, Chizy

Abstract

It is acknowledged that mixed-use complexes are effective urban models that combine commercial, residential, and recreational activities into a single spatial framework. However, rather than being experience spaces that foster social and cultural engagement, circulation systems in many developments are still viewed as just functional moving corridors. In Port Harcourt, Nigeria, this study looked at architectural techniques for enhancing circulation systems in planned mixed-use complexes. Nestoil Tower in Lagos and Victoria Dockside in Hong Kong were chosen as case studies using a qualitative comparative case study technique. The analysis concentrated on experiential qualities, spatial arrangement, and circulation efficiency. The results showed that although Victoria Dockside linked circulation with public realm design, cultural expression, and waterfront experiencing areas, Nestoil Tower focused zoning, vertical circulation systems, and functional efficiency. The study's conclusions led to the proposal of an Experiential Circulation Framework that incorporated indoor urban boulevards, interactive flooring systems, digital wall interfaces, and art and historical exhibitions into circulation areas. According to the study's findings, circulation in mixed-use projects should serve as both a movement system and an immersive architectural setting that improves spatial quality and user engagement.

Keywords

Experiential circulationmixed-use developmentarchitectural circulation systemsPort Harcourt urban design.

References

BACCL Architects. (n.d.). Nestoil Towers. https://acclarchitects.com/nestoil/ Adebayo, T., Johnson, P., & Smith, R. (2024). Spatial sociability in contemporary architectural circulation systems. Journal of Built Environment Studies, 18(2), 45–60. Abraham, Dimkpa, Ohochuku & Daminabo (2026) – Investigating Circulation Patterns and Movement Efficiency and Their Relationship to Occupant Satisfaction and Community Interaction in Residential Buildings in Port Harcourt Metropolis. BBrisibe, W. G. (2023). Urban housing transformation and spatial inefficiencies in Nigerian cities. Journal of Environmental and Urban Studies. DDimkpa, K., & Ohochuku, C. P. (2024). Housing transformation and urban spatial change in Port Harcourt. Journal of Environmental Design Studies. DDimkpa, K., Ohochuku, C. P., & Adibe, N. O. (2024). Residential conversion and urban spatial restructuring in Port Harcourt metropolis. American Journal of Engineering, Mechanics and Architecture. DDimkpa & Ohochuku (2024) – Circular Synergy for Sustainable Architecture in Nigeria. DDimkpa, K., Ohochuku, C. P., Esau, J. E., & Brisibe, W. G. (2026). Circulation patterns and movement efficiency in residential buildings in Port Harcourt metropolis. International Journal of Engineering and Management Trends. IIroha, Dimkpa & Aloka (2024) – Architectural Strategies for Effective Circulation in Varsity Faculty Buildings. Mensah, K., & Bello, A. (2023). Experiential circulation and spatial transition in modern architecture. International Journal of Architectural Design, 12(1), 77–92. New World Development. (2024). Victoria Dockside project overview and development information. Nguyen, L. (2021). Culture and identity in architectural movement spaces. Urban Design and Culture Review, 9(3), 110–125. Okafor, C., Ibrahim, S., & Cole, D. (2022). Commercial dynamics of circulation spaces in mixed- use developments. Journal of Urban Architecture and Planning, 15(4), 33–50.

Architectural Strategies for Designing Efficient and Experiential Circulation Systems in Mixed-Use Developments for Port Harcourt

Abstract

Keywords

References

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