Enhancing Thermal Comfort in High-Rise Condominiums Through Passive Design Strategies in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Thermal comfort in buildings is a challenging environmental issue confronting occupants, especially in tropical climates like Nigeria. Thermal comfort is essential in urban centres like Lagos due to high population density, limited urban land, and congestion. The impacts manifest more in compact high-rise buildings not adopting passive design strategies. The study investigates the passive design strategies adopted in high-rise condominiums designed to enhance occupants’ thermal comfort in Lagos, Nigeria. The study relied on qualitative data collected through case studies, observation checklists, and in-depth interview guides from seven purposely selected high-rise condominiums. Data were analysed using simple statistical tools and content analysis techniques. The data analysis showed that only 28.6% (2 out of 7 case studies) of the buildings adopted passive design strategies. 71.4% (5 out of 7 case studies) depended on active ventilation for thermal comfort. Findings show that passive design strategies in high-rise condominium buildings consider a location’s climate and site conditions to maximise the health and comfort of building occupants while minimising energy use. It is relevant and is in tandem with SDGs 3, 11and 13. The results implied that occupants are experiencing discomfort with thermal indoor qualities in their homes. The study concludes that thermal discomfort affects occupants’ well-being.