Architects charged on resilient building designs

As humanity struggles to cope with changing climatic conditions reflected in rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather condition events, flooding and coastal erosion, architects have been charged to take the responsibility of designing and constructing buildings that respond to these changes.

Such buildings, according to Mobolaji Adeniyi, president of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), should be resilient to those challenges and also be capable of mitigating their impact on the environment.

Adeniyi, who is the second female president of the institute since its inception in 1960, spoke at the on-going Lagos Architect Forum (LAF) hosted by the Lagos Branch of the institute with the theme, ‘Lagos Resilience and Climate Adaptation.’

She explained that the architects’ designs must prioritise sustainable practices, utilizing materials that are environmentally friendly and resilient to harsh weather conditions, adding that incorporating passive design strategies such as natural ventilation and day-lighting could reduce energy consumption and enhance occupants’ comfort even in the face of power outages or extreme heat.

“Our construction methods should prioritise durability and adaptability, ensuring that our buildings can withstand the test of time and evolving environmental conditions,” Adeniyi said, adding, “by embracing innovative construction techniques and materials, we can create structures that contribute to the resilience and sustainability of our city.”

Earlier in his opening remarks and welcome address, David Majekodunmi, chairman of the Lagos branch, had noted that as architects, it is their responsibility to shape the built environment in a manner that fosters resilience and sustainability, particularly in the face of the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

According to him, Lagos stands at the fore-front of those challenges, grappling with rapid urbanisation, infrastructure strain and environmental vulnerability, adding that the city is also one brimming with potential, innovation and resilience.

“Today, as we gather to deliberate on Lagos Resilience and Climate Adaptation strategies, we are not merely discussing abstract concepts. We are confronting the very essence of our profession—the art of creating spaces that not only withstand the test of time but also nurture the well-being of its inhabitants and the natural environment,” the chairman said.

Continuing, he said, “as we embark on this journey of exploration, let us remain mindful of the challenges ahead and the opportunities they present; let us harness the power of innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement to create a more resilient and adaptive Lagos for generations to come.”