A Comparative Analysis of Acoustic Material and Effects on Church Auditoriums: Old and New Churches in Nigeria

Abstract

This Paper will be critically looking at the use of acoustic materials in the old and new Church auditoriums in Nigeria. It will also provide a brief background of Nigeria’s traditional spaces of worship as was created by the vernacular architecture, before the introduction of modern church architecture by the colonialists. It includes an outline of various church architectural Forms and the use of acoustical materials and technology spanning a long period in Nigeria. The Paper actually provides opportunities for critical discussions on the influence of time, knowledge, materials, and economy on the use of acoustic materials in churches in Nigeria. Along the line of discussion, the Paper will draw comparisons between the acoustic performance of auditoriums of the past and present on the basis of materials type used, spatial design arrangement, functionality/comfort and aesthetics. The benefits of this comparative analysis between old and new church auditoriums on the use of acoustic materials and technologies will also not be ignored. Keywords: