Don't just copy global designs meant for temperate climates when building for cities that are in hot, humid or tropical zones.
Covered in glass, the former IMB Plaza building in Lagos stood as an example of the influence of international design styles on the Nigerian commercial capital’s architecture.
Such “internationally” styled high-rise buildings, often seen as a symbol of progress and economic advancement, are not always well integrated into the local climate or landscape. In the case of Lagos, the climate is hot and humid, yet buildings like this are hermetically sealed, enclosed in glass, with limited shading from the sun and high reliance on artificial ventilation.
Similar imported architectural features are evident in other high-rise buildings across Lagos such as the WEMA Tower, Stallion Tower and Sapetro Tower. It is a trend in other African cities too.
The lack of connection with local context often has significant energy, environmental and social implications. Such designs are driven by imitation, which limits social, cultural and conceptual diversity. Imitation in architecture – or “duplitecture” – also goes against the United Nation’s Agenda 2030,
Fantastic article!
https://theconversation.com/cities-like-lagos-need-building-designs-that-dont-just-copy-global-styles-144610
Topic: Glass buildings are dumb! (Read 1088 times)