Architectural Preservation of Historic Buildings for Sustainable Built Environment

Abstract

Preservation of historic buildings plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable environment by serving as a model for climate-responsive designs and bridge between the past and the present architecture. This study focused on the need for architectural preservation of historic buildings in order to explore their unique features for energy efficiency that can benefit the environment in a sustainable manner. The study relied on case study methodology. Intrinsic approach to case selection is adopted because of historical relevance and significance to sustaining the typical tropical architecture design characteristics. The design of this case study is guided by the thermal comfort and energy efficiency theoretical developments of tropical architecture. The features of investigation center around the design characteristics and strategies that enhance the livability of a typical tropical building. Data for this research is primarily sourced through direct observation and photographs. Analysis of the data is done thematically. Findings reveal the investigated case building possesses design strategies and characteristics for the prevention and removal of solar heat gains in tropical buildings. These would enhance sustainable architectural practices within the tropical climate of Nigeria