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A DESIGN PROPOSAL FOR A REGIONAL SECRETARIAT BUILDING FOR THE

NIGERIAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS (NIA) IN ENUGU STATE

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter One
1.0 Background Of Study
1.1 Statement Of Problem
1.2 Aim
1.3 Objectives
1.4 Scope Of The Project
1.5 Motivation
1.6 Research Methodology
1.7 Limitations Of The Study Encountered

Chapter Two
Literature Review
2.1 Definition Of Terms:
2.2 History Of The Nia:
2.3 Mode Of Operation Of The Nia
2.4 Benefits Of The Nia
2.5deductions From Literature Review

Chapter Three
3.0 Case Studies

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Chapter Four
4.1 Planning Proposal
4.2 Site Planning
4.3 Zoning
4.4 Environmental Impact Assessment

Chapter Five
Design Proposal
5.1 Space Programming/Interrelationship Matrices
5.2 Zoning
5.3 Facilities
5.4 Anthropometric Studies
5.5 Design Considerations
Conclusion
Bibliography
Diagrams

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of study

Architecture is the practice of building design and its resulting products;

customary usage refers to those designs that are customarily significant.

Architecture is to building as literature is to the printed word. More

prosaically, one would say today that architecture must satisfy its intended
uses, must technically be sound and must convey aesthetic meaning. But the
best buildings are often so well-constructed that they outlast their original use.
They then survive not only as beautiful objects but as documents of the history
of cultures, achievements in architecture that testify to the nature of the
society that produced them. Architecture form is inevitably influenced by the
technologies applied, but building technology is conservative and
knowledgeabout itcumulative. These achievements are never wholly the work
of individuals. Architecture is a social art.

In Nigeria, The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), established in 1960,

made up of professional architects, is an institution with the objective of
promoting the practice of the profession of Architecture in Nigeria. The NIA
has in each state of Nigeria a chapter with the aim and objective of setting
recommendable standards of architecture, as well as maintaining those
standards.

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By April 2005, it had over 4000 members in 32 state chapters. It is a non-

governmental organization, but performs some statutory functions on behalf
of the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) and cooperates with
governmental and non-governmental agencies and institutions.

As in every state in Nigeria, there is a chapter of the Nigerian Institute of

Architects in Enugu state, which is called the Enugu state chapter of the
Nigerian Institute of Architects. The Enugu state chapter of the NIA monitors
the practice of the profession of architecture on a regional basis in Enugu
state. It serves as an embassy for all individuals practicing the profession of
architecture. Most times, the Enugu state chapter of the NIA in collaboration
with the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria conducts examinations and
may call to arbitrate in cases of dispute on liability.

1.2 Statement of problem

Due to the fact that the Enugu state chapter of the N.I.A has no
standard structure which will efficiently aid the architectural body properly
organize the practice of the profession in the state, there is need for a building
complex which will fully aid the Enugu state chapter of the professional
architectural body (The Nigerian Institute of Architects) carry out its mandated
obligations such as the mobilization of informal members for quality services
and maintenance of the good standards already set.

1.3 Aims

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The major aim of this project is to produce a design proposal which is a

regional secretariat building for the NIA in Enugu state. This in turn will
promote the social image of the NIA in the community, which will concurrently
give the profession of architecture in the state a prestigious social status.

1.4 Objectives

The objectives are as follows:

- Assessing the nature of architecture in the community.

- Determining the socio-economic implication of the already available
architecture in the community.
- Designing a secretariat building which will comfortably be functional
and aesthetically appealing.
- To produce a masterpiece as a design for practicing architects within
the community.
- To protect the rich cultural heritage of Enugu state and Nigeria as a
whole.
- To serve and aid in making the state a tourist center

1.5 Motivations for the project

This project topic has its genesis in my desire to do an intensive,

demanding but rewarding topic for the thesis project.

Due to the emergence of Arc. E.C. Chukwuka as the president of the

Nigerian Institute of Architects, there has been a lot of reforms in the NIA. This

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in turn, from the national headquarters has had a couple of chain reactions in
the various 36 chapters all around the nation.

Basically, due to the fact that the Enugu state chapter of the NIA has no
secretariat building designed and erected specifically for the soul purpose of its
own, I found it necessary for the chapter to have a building of its own, for its
private purposes, such as it annual general meetings, executive committee
meetings, November-lectures, archi-wives meetings, professional practice
examinations and other social activities. There is need for a secretariat building
for the Enugu state chapter of the NIA, for the setting and maintenance of the
standard of architecture in the community. The architecture of a community,
defines its level of civilization.

1.6 Scope of project

A regional secretariat building for the NIA is a focal point for the
profession of architecture in the state which it is found. It should be a building
where architectural activities such as executive committee meetings, annual
meetings, November-lectures, archi-wives meetings, dinners, professional
practice examinations and other social activities will be held. It would also
serve as recreational center, whereby architects or regular individuals could go
to and relax their minds. The space analysis which were obtained from a case
study of the Royal Institute of British Architects (a professional body of
architects in the United Kingdom). The RIBA is the biggest and oldest
architectural body formally setup in the world with the best knowledge and
experience in the field of architecture. The spaces are as follows, a large
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library, exhibition galleries, a large architectural bookshop, a café, a restaurant,

lecture theatres and various other rooms hired out for events.

1.7 Limitations of the study encountered

- Scarcity of materials on the chosen thesis topic

- Procuring the proposed site from the NIA chairman (Ennugu state
chapter).
- Limited financial power to carry out the case study
- The uncooperative attitude of some architects met for one-on-one
interview.
- Bad weather conditions on some days, making it difficult to meet up
with some appointments.

However, prudent use has been made of the available information obtained
during my time of research.

1.8 Importance of the study

The importances to the student architect are as follows:

- To develop the students understanding about architecture world-

wide when he/she embarks on research
- To help the researcher to understand the NIA a lot more.
- To develop the reasoning capability of the researcher when he/she is
designing.

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- It gives the researcher proper insight into practicing of architecture

and other social responsibilities.

1.9 Research methodology

The research procedure used for this thesis was mainly the primary
source i.e. through individuals that know a lot about NIA. The secondary
sources were mainly the internet and books in the libraries

- The use of semi-standardized interview surveys as were adopted,

whereby a schedule of questionnaires were presented to
respondents. This was used particularly to understand the NIA. Oral
interviews were also used to obtain information on an informal basis.
- Literature reviews- this involves mostly using the internet and also
consulting in getting other information that will be of relevance to
the thesis project. Some books used were published and others
unpublished

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CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Definition of Terms:

There are various terms very common with the Nigerian Institute of
Architects. The following listed below are some acronyms very common with
the Nigerian Institutes of Architects.

- NIA: Nigerian Institute of Architects

- ARCON: Architects Registration Council of Nigeria
- ARCHIBUILT: A public service program setup by the Nigerian Institute
of Architects
- MNIA: Member Nigerian Institute of Architects
- FNIA: Fellow Nigerian Institute of Architects
- PPNIA: Past president Nigerian Institute of Architects
- PPE: Professional Practice Examination

2.2 History of the NIA:

Early in the 1950’s, three Nigerian Architects studying in London,

conceived the idea of a professional body of Architects to be formed to carry
out detailed planning for the establishment of an institute of Architects in
Nigeria.

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On the first day of April in the year 1960, (six months before the nations
independence), the Nigerian Institute of Architects was founded as a Nigerian
Society of Architects in Lagos with 13 foundation members.

On April 2005 (45 years after), the membership of NIA surpassed the
4000 mark which comprised of fellows, full honorary members, associate
graduates and student members, all of which were located in 32 state
chapters.

The NIA is administered by its policy making body, executive council,

comprising of elected , co-opted and appointed members through the various
committees of the council. It is a non-governmental organization which
however performs some statutory functions on behalf of the ARCON
(Architects Registration Council of Nigeria).

The institute continues to corporate with governmental and non-

governmental agencies, institutions and other bodies in the changing roles of
the Architects in the society as well as advancing the aims and objectives of the
institute.

2.3 Mode of Operation of the NIA

With a vision to attain excellence in creative management of the physical

environment and a mission statement to mobilize informed membership for
quality services, the NIA is an institutional body determined to promote the
profession of Architecture, setting a unique standard which will help develop
the Nigerian society.
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As a regulatory body of the profession of Architecture, the NIA has

regional branches in the 32 states of the nation. These regional branches are
called chapters and are also managed by various individuals called the
executive committee members. These individuals regulate the Architects in
their various chapters and they also issue membership to individuals who pass
the professional practice exams setup by them.

The professional practice examination is an intellectual test of

knowledge, which when passed by candidates, grants them membership into
the NIA. The exam details are explained below:

- Finals 1 is an examination, which is to be taken by graduates with the

HND and BSc. (Arch.) degrees.
- Finals 2 is a higher examination which is to be taken by candidates
who have passed the final examination as well as graduates of
unaccredited M.Sc. programs.
- Professional Practice Examination (PPE) is to be taken by graduates of
the NIA from accredited schools as well as candidates who have
passed the finals 2 exams.

Membership of the NIA

There are various types of members of the NIA. The following listed
below are the types of membership obtained from the members directory.

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- Fellows
- Full members
- Graduate members

Graduate members of the NIA are regularly students in college and

also graduates without M.Sc. certificate. After the M.Sc. certificate has
been procured by the graduate member, he/she gets to be qualified for
the associate membership.

The graduate and associate membership is obtained by the

purchasing and registration of NIA forms. No examination needs to be
passed to gain either of both membership qualifications.

To be a full member of the NIA, one needs to pass the

professional practice exam, and after practicing for 10 years as a full
member of the NIA, he/she gets to be a fellow of the NIA.

On both the national and state levels, there are executive committee members
who are elected for the proper regulation of the NIA activities.

The headquarters of the NIA is located on number 2 Kuwaka close off Gimbiya
street, area 11, Garki Abuja,Nigeria.

2.7 Benefits of the NIA

- It helps organize practicing architects in the society

- It helps to access the nature of the architecture in the community

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- It sets standards for practicing architects to follow

- It promotes the social image of the profession of Architecture
- It aids in bringing all practicing architects up to date.
- It makes students take the profession seriously
-

2.2Principles of design and planning of secretariat buildings/offices

The long-term objective of sustainable secretariat design is to minimize
resource degradation and consumption on a global scale. Thus the
primary objective of sustainable secretariat building design is to "lead
through example" to heighten environmental awareness. Sustainable
secretariat building design must seek to

 use the building (or nonbuilding) as an educational tool to

demonstrate the importance of the environment in sustaining
human life
 reconnect humans with their environment for the spiritual,
emotional, and therapeutic benefits that nature provides
 promote new human values and lifestyles to achieve a more
harmonious relationship with local, regional, and global resources
and environments
 increase public awareness about appropriate technologies and the
cradle-to-grave energy and waste implications of various building
and consumer materials
 nurture living cultures to perpetuate indigenous responsiveness to,

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and harmony with, local environmental factors

 relay cultural and historical understandings of the site with local,
regional, and global relationships

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS INVOLVED HEREIN ARE EXPLAINED

BELOW

 consider phasing the development to allow for monitoring of

resource impacts and adjustments in subsequent phases
 allow for future expansion and/or adaptive uses with a minimum of
demolition and waste
o materials and components should be chosen that can be
easily reused or recycled
 make it easy for the occupants/operators to recycle waste

Natural Factors

By definition, sustainable design seeks harmony with its environment. To

properly balance human needs with environmental opportunities and
liabilities requires detailed analysis of the specific site. How facilities
relate to their context should be obvious so as to provide environmental
education for its users. Although the following information is very general,
it does serve as a checklist of basic considerations to address once
specific site data is obtained.

Climate

 apply natural conditioning techniques to effect appropriate comfort

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levels for human activities . . . do not isolate human needs from the
environment
 avoid overdependence on mechanical systems to alter the climate
(such dependency signifies inappropriate design, disassociation
from the environment, and nonsustainable use of resources)
 Analyze whether the climate is comfortable, too cool, or too hot for
the anticipated activities, and then which of the primary climatic
components of temperature, sun, wind, and moisture make the
comfort level better (asset) or worse (liability).

Temperature

 temperature is a liability in climates where it is consistently too hot

or too cold
 areas that are very dry or at high elevation typically have the asset
of large temperature swings from daytime heating to nighttime
cooling, which can be flattened through heavy/massive
construction to yield relatively constant indoor temperatures
 when climate is predominantly too hot for comfort:
o minimize solid enclosure and thermal mass
o maximize roof ventilation
o use elongated or fractured floor plans to minimize internal
heat gain and maximize exposure for ventilation
o separate rooms and functions with covered breezeways to
maximize wall shading and induce ventilation

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o isolate heat-generating functions such as kitchens and

laundries from living areas
o provide shaded outdoor living areas such as porches and
decks
o capitalize on cool nighttime temperatures, breezes, or ground
temperatures
 when climate is predominantly too cool for comfort
o consolidate functions into most compact configuration
o insulate thoroughly to minimize heat loss
o minimize air infiltration with barrier sheeting,
weatherstripping, sealants, and airlock entries
o minimize openings not oriented toward sun exposure

Sun

 sun can be a significant liability in hot climates, but is rarely a

liability in cold climates
 sun can be an asset in cool and cold climates to provide passive
heating
 design must reflect seasonal variations in solar intensity, incidence
angle, cloud cover, and storm influences
 when solar gain causes conditions too hot for comfort
o use overhangs to shade walls and openings
o use site features and vegetation to provide shading to walls
with eastern and western exposure
o use shading devices such as louvers, covered porches, and
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trellises with natural vines to block sun without blocking out

breezes and natural light
o orient broad building surfaces away from the hot late-day
western sun (only northern and southern exposures are
easily shaded)
o use lighter-colored wall and roofing material to reflect solar
radiation (be sensitive to resulting glare and impact on
natural/cultural setting)
o in tropical climates, use shutters and screens, avoiding glass
and exposures to direct solar gain
 when solar gain is too be used to offset conditions that are too cool
for comfort
o maximize building exposure and openings facing south
(facing north in the southern hemisphere)
 increase thermal mass and envelope insulation
 use darker-colored building exteriors to absorb solar
radiation and promote heat gain

Wind

o wind is a liability in cold climates because it strips heat away

quicker than normal; wind can also be a liability to comfort in
hot dry climates when it causes the human body to dehydrate
and then overheat
o wind can be an asset in hot, humid climates to provide
natural ventilation
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 use natural ventilation wherever feasible; limit air-

conditioning to areas requiring special humidity or
temperature control such as artifact storage and
computer rooms
 maximize/minimize exposure to wind through plan
orientation and configuration, number and position of
wall and roof openings, and relationship to grade and
vegetation
 use wind scoops, thermal chimneys, or wind turbines to
induce ventilation on sites with limited wind

Moisture

o moisture can be a liability if it comes in the form of humidity,

causing such stickiness that one cannot evaporatively cool
(cooling by perspiring) in summer
 strategies to reduce the discomfort of high humidity
include maximizing ventilation, inducing air flow around
facilities, and venting or moving moisture-producing
functions such as kitchens and shower rooms to
outside areas
o nature can be an asset by evaporating in hot, dry climates to
cool and humidify the air (a natural air-conditioning)
 techniques for evaporative cooling include placing
facilities where breezes will pass over water features
before reaching the facility, and providing fountains,
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pools, and plants

Other Climatic Considerations

o rainfall can be a liability if any concentrated runoff from

developed surfaces is not managed to avoid erosion
o rainfall can be an asset if it is collected off roofs for use as
drinking water
o storms/hurricanes/monsoons/typhoons
 provide or make arrangements for emergency storm
shelters
 avoid development in floodplain and storm surge areas
 consider wind effects on walls and roofs
 provide storm shutters for openings
 use appropriate wind bracing and tie-downs
 design facilities to be light enough and of readily
available and renewable materials to be safely
sacrificial to large storms, or of sufficient mass and
detail to prevent loss of life and material

Vegetation

o locate and size facilities to avoid cutting mature vegetation

and to minimize disruption to, or disassociation with, other
natural features
o use natural vegetation and adjustments in building plan to
diminish the visual impact of facilities and to minimize
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imposition on environmental context

o in warmer climates, strengthen interplay of facilities with their
site environment through minimizing solid walls, creating
outdoor activity spaces, etc.

Topography

o consider building/land interface to minimize disturbance to

site character, skyline, vegetation, hydrology, and soils
o consolidate functions or segment facilities to reduce footprint
of individual structures to allow sensitive placement within
existing landforms
o use landforms and the sensitive arrangement of buildings to
 help diminish the visual impact of facilities
 enhance visual quality by creating a rhythm of open
spaces and framed views
 orient visitors to building entrances
 accentuate key landmarks, vistas, and facilities

Water Bodies

o capture views and consider advantages/disadvantages of off

water breezes
o safeguard water from pollutants from the development itself
and its users
o minimize visual impact of development on waterfront zones

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(also consider views from water back to shoreline)

 use building setbacks/buffer zones
 consider building orientation and materials
 avoid light pollution

Hydrology

o locate and design facilities to minimize erosion and impacts

on natural hydrological systems
o safeguard hydrological system from contamination by
development/activities
o allow precipitation to naturally recharge groundwater,
wherever possible

Geology/Soils

o minimize excavation and disturbance to groundcover

o minimize erosion by avoiding large impervious surface areas
and building footprints that collect rain and create concentrate
runoff onto site

Seismic

o determine soil substrate and potential seismic risk

o use shear walls and appropriate building anchorage and
bracing details

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Pests

o design facilities to minimize intrusion by noxious insects,

reptiles, and rodents
o ensure that facility operators use natural means for pest
control

Wildlife

o respect importance of biodiversity and the humble role of

humans in design
o avoid disruption of wildlife travel or nesting patterns by
sensitive siting of development and by limits set on
construction activity and facility operation.
o allow opportunities for users to be aware of indigenous
wildlife (observe, but not disturb)

Human Factors

Cultural Resources

Archeological resources

o use preservation and interpretation of archeological features

to provide insight to previous cultural responses to the
environment, their successes as well as failures

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Vernacular architecture

o analyze local historic building styles, systems, and materials

usually for time-tested approaches in harmony with natural
systems
o use local building material, craftsmen, and techniques to the
greatest extent practicable in the development of new
facilities

Historic resources

o reuse historic buildings whenever possible to assist in their

preservation, contribute to the special quality of the place,
and extend the payback of their embodied energy and
materials

Anthropology/ethnic background/religion/sociology

o understand the local culture and their needs to avoid

introduction of socially unacceptable or morally offensive
practices
o consult with local indigenous population for design input as
well as to foster their sense of ownership and acceptance
o include local construction techniques, materials, and cultural
considerations (that are environmentally sound) in the
development of new facilities

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Arts and crafts

o incorporate local expressions of art, handiwork, detailing,

and, when appropriate, technology into new facility design
and interior design
o provide opportunities and space for demonstration of local
crafts and performing arts

Sensory Experience

Visual

 provide visitors with ready access to educational materials to

enhance their understanding and appreciation of the local
environment and threats to it
 incorporate views of natural and cultural resources into even
routine activities to provide opportunities for contemplation,
relaxation, and appreciation
 use design principles of scale, rhythm, proportion, balance, and
composition to enhance the complementary integration of facilities
into environmental context
 provide visual surprises within design of facilities to stimulate the
educational experience
 limit height of development to below top of tree canopy to preserve
visual quality of natural and cultural landscape
 use muted colors to blend facilities with natural context, unless

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contradictory to other environmental considerations

(reflection/absorption) or cultural values (customs/taboos)

Sounds

 Locate service and maintenance functions away from public areas

 space lodging units and interpretive stops so that natural, not
human, sounds dominate
 use vegetation to create sound baffle between public and private
activities
 orient openings toward natural sounds such the lapping of waves,
babbling of streams, and rustling of leaves by the wind
 restrict the use or audio level of unnatural sounds such as radios
and televisions

Touch

 allow visitors to touch and be in touch with the natural and cultural
resources of the site
 vary walking surfaces to identify or give different quality to different
spaces
 use contrasting textures to direct attention to interpretive
opportunities

Smell

 allow natural fragrances of vegetation to be enjoyed

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 direct air exhausted from utility areas away from public areas

Taste

 provide opportunities to sample local produce and cuisine

DEDUCTIONS FROM LITERATURE REVIEW

The following can be deduced from the literature review

- the project at hand is to be carried out with respect to the principles

of design and planning of office buildings
- the N.I.A is an architectural body, so the building ought to be
monumental in nature
- the building should be designed to suit both the N.I.A and the general
public efficiently

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CHAPTER THREE

CASE STUDIES

Some facts were considered as criteria before embarking among the

already established public buildings. The case study forms the basis on which
one understands what to look for case studies.

Therefore, the following criteria were considered before embarking on

the case studies: - purpose, locality, architecture, user population and
technology.

CASE STUDY I

THE ROYAL INSTITUTE OF BRITISH ARCHITECTS(RIBA)

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The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a professional body for

Architects in the United Kingdom.

Originally named The Institute of British Architects in London. It was

formed in 1834 by several prominent Architects. It was awarded a royal
charter in 1834, becoming the Royal Institute of British Architects in London,
eventually dropping the reference to London in 1892.

The RIBA is a member organization with 44,000 members. Chartered

members are entitled to call themselves chartered architects and to append
the post-nominal RIBA after their name. Student members are not permitted
to do so.

LOCATION:

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RIBA is based at 66 Portland place, London, a 1930’s Grade II building

designed by Greg Wornum

FUNCTION:

The RIBA building, functions as the headquarters for the British

Architects, which aids in proper organization of the British Architects.

SPACE ANALYSIS:

The institute maintains a dozen regional offices around the United

Kingdom. Parts of the London building are open to the public, including the
exhibition galleries and library. It has a large architectural bookshop, a café,
restaurant and lecture theatres. Rooms/spaces are hired out for events.

Also included within are the executive offices which are used by the
executive committee members only.

Basically, it can be deduced that the London building has the

administrative area and the public area.

GENERAL APPRAISALS:

Floor plan

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The floor plan is organized in such a way that the public areas accessible
more readily than the administrative areas within. The shape of the floor is a
combination of simple rectangular forms. The building is a 3-storey building
structure.

GROUND FLOOR:

The ground floor is practically public in nature. The following are located
on it, multi-purpose hall, restaurant, bar, control room, bookshop and the
indoor games room.

FIRST FLOOR:

The first floor has the admistrative offices and production or design
offices

SECOND FLOOR:

This floor has terraces, art works and a few administrative offices.

ELEVATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS:

The façade is very simple. It has a very Royal look. The walls are of sand
Crete and hollow block finishing with mortar rendering and paint. The windows
are projecting windows, reflective in nature, the walls, floors and roofs are
insitu-cast, with internal partitions made of block walls, wooden or glass
partitions.

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THE APPROACH AND PERSPECTIVE VIEWS OF THE RIBA BUILDING

-
- Very functional arrangement of spaces within the building
- Use of very simple, functional and prestigious forms in the elevations.
- Stairs open to adequate skylight to make it magnificent.

CASE STUDY II

REGIONAL SECRETARIAT BUILDING FOR THE NIA (ENUGU STATE CHAPTER)

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A PERSPECTIVE VIEW OF THE BUILDING USED BY THE ENUGU STATE BRANCH

OF THE NIGERIAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS

HISTORY:

Officially, in Enugu state, there is no building specially erected for the

sole purpose of the regional secretariat building for the NIA (Enugu state
chapter).

The present building in use is a rented residential 4-bedroom apartment

which was built in the early 1980’s.

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LOCATION:

The building is located at 18/20 chime lane G.R.A Enugu state. The area is a

residential zone.

THE ENTRANCE GATE INTO THE COMPOUND

FUNCTIONS:

The building is serving only three basic purposes for the Enugu state NIA

- A large room about 6sq.meters is used for the executive committee

meetings
- EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING ROOM

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- Another room, which is supposed to be the building garage, is used

as a secretariat for the administrative officer.

- ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS OFFICE

The November-lectures and social gatherings are held at other locations such
as hotels and residential homes. The same goes for the private practice
examination.

APPRAISALS:

The rented residential apartment is very unsuitable to serve the purpose

of the regional secretariat building for the Nigerian institute of architect in
Enugu state.

DEMERITS

First of all, it not a public building.

Secondly, it very unsuitable and inconvenient, due to the fact that it was not
designed for public use.

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It can serve the purpose for which it was rented.

CASE STUDY III

THE FEDERAL SECRETARIAT BUILDING ENUGU STATE.

THE APPROACH VIEW OF THE FEDERAL SECRETARIAT BUILDING, ENUGU STATE

HISTORY:

The secretariat building is a property of the federal government which

was built in the early 1980’s.

LOCATION:

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The federal secretariat building is located within the institute of

management and technology I.M.F in independence layout Enugu state.

FUNCTION:

The federal secretariat building comprises of different arm of ministries

of the state government, and each ministry has its own section.The general
overseer of the building is the office of the controller,ministry of works and
housing.

SPACE ANALYSIS:

Functional spaces located in the building include the following listed

below:-

- Executive offices
- Administrative offices
- Library
- Exhibition spaces
- Seminary Rooms
- Snacks bar/canteen
- Storage facilities

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A research was carried out on this building because it had within,offices

similar and relevant to the proposed design (regional secretariat building for
the Nigeria Institute of Architect).

GENERAL APPRAISALS:

Floor plan:

The floor plan is organized in such a way that the public areas are
accessed first before the administrative areas. The higher you ascend the
floors, the less public you go.

Ground floor:

This floor has the exhibition hall, banks, canteens and a few
administrative offices and the conference room.

First and second floor plans:

These two floors have the administrative offices such as the federal
ministry of education, code of conduct bureau, federal office of statistics,
federal ministry of labor, the federal pay office and many more.

Construction method and materials:

The façade is quite complex in appearance. The presence of so many fins

and also shapes used, aided in achieving this.

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The walls are of sand Crete and hollow blocks, finished with mortar
renderings and paint. The windows are horizontally sliding glass windows, the
walls and floors are insitu-cast. The internal partitions are of block wall,
wooden or glass partitions.

MERITS:

- Adequate and recessed windows to reduce radiation

- Spacious court-yard to enhance light and air circulation
- Office areas were partitioned with wood instead of sand Crete block
walls regularly used. This is advisable to reduce the load-bearing
capacity induced into the foundation and the building itself.
- Adequate exits in case of emergencies
- Toilets are located at the stair landings between floors.
- Conference room could easily be identified from the exterior of the
building. This shows a good communication and understanding of the
building to a passerby.
- Adequate storage rooms located at strategic locations.
- Availability of a navigational map at the reception
- A mechanical room for machine repairs is made available

DEMERITS:

- Circulation within the building is stressful

- Maintenance is not easily carried out due to the size of the building

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3.4 DEDUCTIONS FROM CASE STUDIES

- According to the study, the exhibition room should be located close

to the entrance for easy access by individuals.
- Conference/seminar rooms, multi-purpose halls should not be far
away from the entrance for official activities
- The canteen/restaurant is located at the rear part of the building
together with the store
- The library is also located at the rear side of the building in order to
enhance the serenity of the surrounding environment
- The board and seminar room are located side by side with the
conference room

CHAPTER FOUR

PLANNING PROPOSAL

4.1.1 Geographical location:

The proposed Enugu state NIA regional secretariat building is to be sited

at Enugu central business district. The site is along the Nkpokiti road which
leads to the University of Nigeria (Enugu campus), beside the W.T.C junction,
adjacent to the C to C plaza and close to the Institute of Management and

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Technology (I.M.T) in the Enugu-Central logal government area of Enugu state,

Nigeria.

The area in which the site is located is a developed area. The site is clean
and undeveloped. The soil type of the site is loamy and the land has a gentle
slope which comes from the western side to the eastern side of the site.

4.1.2 Topography:

The land slopes from the western direction to the eastern direction of
the site. Hence this determines

- The building foundation type

- The building form and its relationship to the ground plane
- The site drainage

4.1.3 Soil:

The selected site is of laterite soil, and it has a good bearing capacity.
Soil analysiswill determine the following:

- The size and type of building foundation required.

- The drainage of the ground and surface water

4.1.4 Site Drainage:

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Because of the sloping nature of the land from the west to the east of
the site, a drainage system will be introduced to restrict and redirect the flow
of water away from the proposed buildings on the site.

4.1.5 Vegetation:

Vegetation on the site is of the savannah type,which is noted for

predominant tall grass and sparse tree growth with exposed patches of bare
earth.This plant would be specific because itexists on site and shall be used for
shading purposes.

Vegetation helps in achieving

- - The definition of visual screening of
exterior spaces - The absorption
and dispersion of sound.

4.1.6 Climate:
Enugu falls within the hot-humid tropical
climate zone.There are two major seasons the year. The rainy season lasts
from March to October and the dry season lasts from November to February.

4.1.7 Temperature:

The temperature of Enugu state is usually high and constant through the
year and may range from a mean monthly value of 25.9 oC-25.5oC.

Design Implication

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Air temperature is very high, thereby requiring that indoor temperature

is kept low in order to achieve thermal comfort.

4.1.8 Rainfall:

This is usually very high with a mean monthly value ranging from 4.72cm
in December to 353.60cm in September and may reach as 595.0cm in the
month of September. The season of rainfall covers from March to October, July
and September being known as the period of the heaviest rainfall. Rainy
season is brought about by the south-west monsoon wind from heavy rainfall
on the building and adequate provision must be made for roof and storm
water drainage, protection of walls, windows and building fabric generally.

4.1.9 Humidity:

Enugu has a high relative humidity of 59.9% to 86.54%. The

atmosphere humidity varies in response to the prevailing air mass in the
country. To achieve thermal comfort in interior environment, therefore,
frequent air change should be ensured.

4.1.10Wind pattern:

The prevailing wind patterns are south-west monsoon wind and north–
east trade wind. The south-west monsoon wind blows from the Atlantic Ocean
from March to October. It is cool and fresh and gives rise to the rain. The
north-east trade wind blows from November to February. It is dry and dusty

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and gives rise to the harmattan which is major characteristic of the dry season
in this region.

4.2 SITE PLANNING

4.2.1 Traffic:

The vehicle parking spaces are provided close to the building without
obstructing the movement of pedestrians. Provision has also been med
separately for pedestrians walking in the secretariat building.

4.2.2 Orientation:

The orientation of the building has to be carefully approached in

order to achieve a satisfactory design. The building has an orientation of the
longer axis aligning with the south-west, while the main entrance is facing the
south direction.

4.2.3 Landscaping:

Skillful landscaping makes up for pleasant transaction from outside to

the inside. The secretariat building becomes more inviting and provides more
attractive views. It also helps to reduce environmental factors such as reducing
unbearable conditions of heat, glare, wind and dust

4.3 Zoning

The site is generally a public zone with varying levels of noise observed
within at different zones. The zone where the retail shops are found alongside

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the restaurant and bar,is of the highest level of noise within the site, followed
by the central driveway and the parking lot. The area where the proposed
building is found, posses the least level of noise.

4.4 Environmental impact assessment

The proposed chapter building for the N.I.A Enugu state will help
serve the industrial commercial and residential area. It will equally help in the
provision of job opportunity for the people around the area. It will help in the
development of the architectural standard of the society. It will aid develop
the community and maintain standards of living.

CHAPTER FIVE

DESIGN PROPOSAL

5.1 SPACE PROGRAMMING/INTERRELATIONSHIP MATRICES

FORM:

- To increase design which will seek to accommodate individuals from

all works of life
- To create a design that will consider the comfort and protection of
the users

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- To create a design where simple forms are used as both a functional

and an architectural piece

FUNCTION:

- To avoid conflict in the flow of traffic, both within

- To provide a design that produces undisrupted flow of activities
- To produce a straight forward design that provides individual needs
without difficulty
- To produce a design that provides activities that gradually flows from
main activities within to outdoor activities within the environment.

5.2 ZONING

Zoning of use of areas should be with related functions at

the same time with respect to the functions of the structure, circulation
pattern anticipated, security and safety for accidents such as fire. The will be
carefully zoned into major areas such as public areas, the semi-public and the
private areas.

5.3 FACILITIES

Facilities are building equipment’s and services provided for a particular

purpose. In this case, facilities are referred to as those elements of a building
put in place making it easier and more efficient for the NIA regional secretariat
building, Enugu state to function. The various rules or functions of the
facilities/elements to be involved with the building include

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5.3.1 Circulation and Public facilities:

In this section, the following will be discussed

- Entrance
- Sanitary facilities
- Emergency exits
- Foyers
- Library
- Multi-purpose hall
- Bookshop

Entrance

A well defined entrance shall be provided for entry into the building and
other functional spaces within. These entrances shall be designed to
accommodate the volume of traffic that will pass through them.

Sanitary facilities

Provision of sanitary facilities for all users of the secretariat building is

very important. These will make it easily accessible without being over-
emphasized.

Emergency exits

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In order to promote safety of individuals in the building during any case

of emergency such as fire outbreaks or armed robbery, the emergency exits
which consists of fully automated which open only during cases of emergency
will be made use of and also will be found at various strategic places.

Foyers

A foyer is a large open space outside the entrance of a building where

people can meet or wait. Foyers are transitory circulatory spaces which lead to
functional spaces. Foyers shall be provided at the entrance into facility spaces
such as the main entrance and the staff entrance.

5.3.2 Office facilities:

These are facilities/spaces where the administration and professional body of

the institution of the Enugu state chapter of the NIA operates basically. The
office facilities include the following:

- Office of the chairman of the state chapter

- Office of the secretary
- Office of the treasurer
- Office of the accounts clerk
- Office of the public relations officer
- Office of the six committee chairmen
- Council chamber

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- Exhibition halls
- Security office

Offices

There are offices which constitute of the administration of the NIA

regional secretariat building. Besides other facilities found in the secretariat
building, offices of delegates such as the chairman of the chapter, the
treasurer, the accounts clerk, the P.R.O, the committee chairmen and the
secretary are the major spaces which attention and focus are given to. The
offices on the other hand will not fully be functional because that owns an
office space is a private practitioner and he/she has a private firm which is a
private office as well. The NIA building is a secondary office for the executive
committee members.

Council meeting room

This is a room where the NIA executive committee members gather for
executive committe meetings. Here issues are discussed and solutions are
proffered to them. Council elections are also held in this space.

Exhibition halls

This is a space where a collection of works of art, drawings, models,

artifacts and wares are publicly displayed.

5.3.3 Residential facilities:

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These are spaces provided within the building where individual/visitors

reside and are literally called suites. Suites are like hotel rooms where
individuals pay to reside for a period of time.

5.3.4 Welfare facilities:

Restaurant

A restaurant where day to day businesses and diners will be held will be
made available. This will make the building a lot more comfortable and
independent for individuals living and working within.

Bar/Café

A bar will be very necessary for individuals that would want to drink and
relax themselves from the stress of their daily endeavors/activities.

Indoor games area

This space is one where games will be played within the building.
Provision will be made for games such as snooker, table tennis e.t.c.

Outdoor games area

Games such as the lawn tennis and the basket ball will be appropriate
for this section of the welfare facilities and they will be located outside the
building.

Cyber café

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A cyber café adequate and comfortable shall be provided.

Virtual library

This is a regular library with a mini cyber café setup within the premises
for the private use of the library.

Swimming pool

Provision will be made for a standardized swimming pool for the

secretariat building.

Parking spaces

Adequate parking spaces will be made available and will also have
proper planning.

Leased spaces

Spaces will be created for lease by the NIA institutional body. This will
help create means through which the NIA will raise fund for the body’s regular
needs by leasing out the spaces.

5.4 ANTHROPOMETRIC STUDIES

Space area calculation

Required Spaces Area(M2) Quantity

General officers office 56 1
Administrative officers 56 1

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office
Book shop 112 1
Multi-purpose hall 880 2
Exhibition hall 280 3
E-library 240 1
Library 320 1
Store 49 6
Leased spaces 200 5
Control room 130 1
Librarian’s office 49 1
Acquisition and 49 1
cataloguing department
Records department 200 1
Technical studio 120 2
ARCON representative’s 64 1
office
Chapter Chairman 81 1
Committee chairmen’s 81 3
office
Treasurer 56 1
Council meeting room 160 1
P.R.O 56 1
Secretary 56 1

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5.5 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Certain factors must be put into consideration when producing a design

for a building. These factors influence all aspects of the design and must
therefore be carefully looked into if a befitting design must be produced.

5.5.1 Circulation:

This is an integral part of any building and its planning cannot be

emphasized. Circulation begins with access into the site. Walkways must be
well planned to avoid conflict between vehicles and pedestrians and also allow
pedestrians easy access into and out from the site and building.

5.5.2 Circulatory elements:

Circulation routes within the building will be aided with horizontal or

vertical elements. The horizontal elements include corridors, lobbies and
foyers while vertical elements include stairs, ramps, elevators, and escalators.

Finally, it is important to know that corridors should never be too long as

to avoid fatigue. The layout and organization of these internal circulatory
routes could be varied.

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5.5.3 Security:

There is need for adequate security for the regional secretariat building
of the NIA through the following means:

- Physical security
o This entails the use of individual beings as security personeels.
It also includes the use of other physical elements such as
fences to enclose the site and restrict movements.
- Electronic security
o This entails the use of electronic devices such as gadgets to
provide adequate security. Such devices include security
cameras, alarms, scanners and automated doors.
- Designed security
Security by this method is provided through the design. Zoning
is one of the chief tools employed. Very sensitive areas are
kept consolidated/isolated from the public.

Interior design finishes

The architect is the designer of the interior spaces to evoke certain

impressions and effects.

5.5.4 Fire protection:

The secretariat building must properly be safe-guarded against fire

outbreaks and its spread within the building. This can best be achieved by

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suitable planning and construction by using certain materials and construction

techniques. Escape routes must be adequate and properly located close to
exits (emergency exits). Also it is important to use certain firefighting
equipment’s like fire detectors, fire extinguishers, and water hydrants to
prevent fire outbreaks.

5.5.5 Lightning:

Lightning is an essential aspect of any building. Adequate lightning is

very necessary to achieve a befitting environment. Within the secretariat
building, light can be introduced either naturally or artificially.

- Natural lightning
This is any form of lightning gotten naturally, i.e. Through natural
means such as sunlight and moonlight. The window area within a
designed space must be at least 10% of the total floor area for
adequate natural lightning. It is important to note the amount of light
needed in a design in order to determine efficiently the size of the
window openings required.
Advantages of natural lightning
- It gives a better 3-dimensional view of objects.
- It gives the color rendering of objects to which we are accustomed.
- It creates the awareness of the spacing of time and period of day.
- It is a cheap form of light/solar energy.

Artificial lightning

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This is light gotten through artificial means. It is in most cases used

to supplement for day lightning. Artificial illumination could be direct,
indirect or diffused .in reality, a beam of light is always scattered which
describes why light is always diffused.

There are two basic types of luminaries, the fluorescent and

incandescent light. These could be of varied shapes and sizes. The
method of illumination used in any designed space is dependent on the
function performed in the space. A very good advantage of artificial
lightning is that unlike natural lightning, illumination can be controlled in
terms of quality and quantity in any designedspace.

5.5.6 Ventilation:

Ventilation is the process by which stale air within a building is

constantly replaced by fresh air from outside. A minimum of twenty to
thirty percent (20%-30%) air charges per hour is required for human
comfort in the tropics. Ventilation like lightning is of two types as
discussed below.

- Natural ventilation
o All spaces within the building should to some extent be
ventilated naturally. Three factors greatly influence natural
ventilation within a designed. They are discussed as shown
below:
 Orientation of building

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The best orientation in the tropics receive the

prevailing winds at forty-five percent to the longer
façade of the building, thereby ventilating nooks and
corners of the designed space.
 The presence of vegetation and water bodies
The presence of these elements protect the
surroundings of the building from solar radiation. This
ensures that cool air is brought into the buildings.
 Forestation and openings
The type, size and location of these fenestrations and
openings, mainly windows are important. These
should be designed to stimulate air movement
through designed spaces by cross ventilation to
satisfy the minimum required air charges per hour
required for adequate ventilation in the tropics.
Natural ventilation is not perfect. Air speed,
temperature and humidity cannot be regulated.
These advantages make artificial ventilation desirable
to compliment natural ventilation.
- Artificial ventilation
o Artificial ventilation entails the use of mechanical means to
provide ventilation. Its greatest advantage is that a desirable
atmospheric temperature is maintained internally in the
designed space.
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CONCLUSION
- The design which has passed through the documentation, analysis
and synthesis stages has resulted in a proposal which is worthy of
emulation to other undergraduate student in pursue of a degree in
architecture. The activities therein present are very functional in their
own spaces and at the same time blends with the entire activities
that share the same structure, however, there is no conflict.
- The design concept was used to achieve an architectural space that is
truly comfortable and meets the needs for proper communication
within the building. The design for effective communication within
the building formed the heart of the design process. The design has
actually proved that the services of a secretariat building for the
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Enugu state regional branch of the Nigerian Institute of Architects are

those of public and private services.
- In all, the design can be said to have fully met the requirements of
the design proposal and truly portrays an architectural masterpiece
that will stand the true test of time.
-
BIBLIOGRAPHY
- De Chiara E. J(2004).Time Saver Standardand Building Types.New
York:McGraw Hill Book.
- Ham Roderisk (2005).Theater Planning, London:The Architectural
Press.
- A.S Hornby (2006). Oxford advanced learners dictionary.New
York:xford university press.
- Neufert et Ernest(2006). Architect’s data. USA:Blackwell publishers.
- Quentin Pickard (2002). The Architect’s handbook, USA:Blackwell
publishing company.

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