NYSC PERMANENT ORIENTATION CAMP, KATAMPE

NYSC PERMANENT ORIENTATION CAMP,

KATAMPE EXTENSION, ABUJA

(A study of Adaptable Spaces)

AN M.Sc. (ARCH) PROJECT RESEARCH REPORT

BY

ORJI CHIKEZIE F.

PG/MSc/07/46705

SUPERVISOR: ARC. CHENDO I. G.

SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE,

UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT FOR THE

REQUIREMENTS OF THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF MASTER

OF SCIENCE (M.SC) IN ARCHITECTURE

July, 2011

….NYSC Camp, Abuja

ii

CERTIFICATION

This thesis report is an original research work carried out by Orji, Chikezie Felix, a

Postgraduate student of the Department of Architecture, University of Nigeria, Enugu

Campus, with Registration number PG/MSc/07/46705.

It is submitted as part of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of

Science (M.Sc.) in Architecture.

Certified and signed by:

……………………………………….. …………………………

ORJI, CHIKEZIE FELIX DATE

(Student)

………………………………………

…………………………

ARC. I. G. CHENDO DATE

(Project Supervisor)

……………………………………...

…………………………

ARC. F.O. UZUEGBUNAM DATE

(Head of Department)


iii

DEDICATION

This work is dedicated to all displaced populations in Nigeria especially those in

any way affected by the recurring Jos crisis.


iv

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

With great appreciation and gratitude to the Almighty God, I would like to

acknowledge first of all the efforts of my parents; Mr. N. D. Oji and Mrs. N. C. Oji

towards my welfare in completing this programme, especially my mum for her

immense support.

My warmest greetings and thanks also go to my uncles; Bar. Uka Okereke, Bar.

Chima Okereke, for their unalloyed support and help in more ways than one

towards the successful completion of my programme, especially to Bar. Uka

Okereke for all his advice as regards this thesis. And to my aunts; Mrs Ugochi

Okereke and Mrs Stella Oji for their prayers. To my boss Arc. Bayo Ojisua for his

advice and resources towards the actualization of this thesis report. To my boss and

uncle; Mr Robert Oji and the entire staff of Rocana Nigeria Limited for their

support and encouragement. To Alh. Muktar Auwal, my former boss in

Development control Department, FCDA, Abuja for his advice. I will forever be

indebted to you.

My thanks also go to my lecturers and entire staff of the Department of

Architecture, University of Nigeria, Enugu campus especially; Dr. J. Akubue, Arc.

Onoh, Arc. C. A. Udeh, Arc. F. Uzuegbunam, Arc. Odum and Arc. Osefoh for all

their advice and all their knowledge they imparted in me throughout the course of

this programme. My deepest appreciation also goes to Arc. M. Nwalusi for all his

fatherly advice and to my humble supervisor; Arc. I. G. Chendo for all his

guidance, advice and supervision towards the successful completion of this thesis

report.


v

This thesis will not be complete without acknowledging the efforts of friends and

family both in advice, encouragement and contribution towards my wellbeing

throughout this programme especially; Uche Oji, Somto Orji, Victor Adim,

Chinyere Oji, Kenechukwu Mkparu, Uju Nwosu, Ifeanyi Ezike, Noma Imasuen,

Maureen Okoye, Ikpe Emmanuel, Thelma Igbo, Ifeanyi Oji, Chuks Oji and Chika

Ifesie

I will also want to acknowledge the staff of NYSC Directorate, Maitama, Abuja for

the resources and their time especially the librarian; Mrs Mubu Nababa. This also

goes to the staff of NYSC Secretariat, Zone 5 Wuse, Abuja especially the PRO;

Miss Sambo for the resources and information that helped in this thesis report. To

the staff, caretakers and corpers in NYSC orientation Camp Kubwa village at the

time of visit for their patience and information, to the staff of Citizenship and

Leadership Training Center, Garki II, Abuja (Man o‘ War) for the help, to the staff

of Development Control Department, Wuse Zone 6 and Abuja Geographic

Information systems (AGIS) especially Alj. Aliyu for his support, I will remain

ever grateful.

I will not fail to mention all my colleagues for the encouragement and information

they have passed towards this programme and especially this thesis report

especially; Utsu M., Igboayaka K., Abraham A. U., Odumah Y., Umeokafor U. and

Ogozi P.

Finally, to all others, who made this work a reality and all the great people that

shared some intimacy with me during my academic odyssey. My prayer for you is

that God will aid you to attain giant strides in life. You are blessed!


vi

ABSTRACT

Space adaptability and flexibility as they say, is one of the most important

principles of sustainable architecture. The importance of this notion cannot be

overemphasized because of the present need for sustainability in our time. It is for

this reason that this design proposal was initiated. The relevance of adaptable space

is that it not only allows us to fit our different activities in one space but also to

save a lot of resources.

The conventional method of spatial design is to develop a space for its effective

utilization for the primary purpose. Sometimes, a simple adjustment of spatial

configuration allows for a change in use for the same space. These adjustments

define the adaptability of such space.

This proposal is aimed at adopting this adaptable space idea into NYSC Orientation

Camp design. It will also help in the study and understanding of the primary

mechanisms which guide the design of this particular project.

Chapter one of this thesis report presents an introduction into the subject, stating

the motivation and purpose, statement of architectural problems, defining scope etc.

Chapter two presents the theoretical framework backing up adaptable spaces,

historical background of both the study and the design structure. Relevant cases

were also evaluated for study. The third chapter throws more light on the principles

for the design of both adaptable spaces and NYSC orientation camps. Chapter four

talks about analyses of required spaces, the chosen site and its implications on the

design. It also presents derived data from the research methodology. The final

chapter rounds up this project as a design, the philosophy behind it discussed and

recommendations made.


vii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE...........................................................................................................i

CERTIFICATION..................................................................................................ii

DEDICATION.......................................................................................................iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.....................................................................................iv

ABSTRACT...........................................................................................................vi

TABLE OF CONTENTS......................................................................................vii

LIST OF TABLES..................................................................................................x

LIST OF FIGURES................................................................................................xi

LIST OF PLATES.................................................................................................xiv

CHAPTER ONE………………………………………………….…….….……0

1.0 INTRODUCTION…………………………………………….………..…....1

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY……….………………….…..……..….2

1.2 STATEMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL PROBLEM………………..……...9

1.3 AIM OF THE STUDY………………………………………….…………..10

1.4 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY…………………………….……………..10

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY………………………….……… …....11

1.6 MOTIVATION……………………………………………….….…….……12

1.7 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY…………….……………...13

1.8 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY…………………………………….....…..14

1.9 REFERENCES…………………………………………………..….......…...15

CHAPTER TWO……………………………………………………….….…..18

2.0 REVIEW OF LITERATURE…………………………………………..19

2.1 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND………………………………………19

2.2 THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK……………………………..……….26

2.3 CASE STUDIES …………………………………….…………...…….30

2.3.1 NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Kubwa, Abuja (1)……………….30

2.3.2 NYSC Orientation Camp Awgu, Enugu, Enugu State. (2)……………..38

2.3.3. NYSC Orientation Camp, Nonwa-Gbam, Rivers State. (3)………….....46

2.4 CASE STUDY OF ADAPTABLE SPACES ……………………..50

2.4.1 The Casino De Paris, France (4)……………………………..………….50

2.4.2 Marie Jujurieux, France (5)……………………………………………...52

2.4.3 Bunyonyi Community School (6)……………………………………….55


viii

2.4.4 Heartwood Conference Center, and Camp Retreat, Trego,

Wisconsin, United States. (7)………………………………….……..59

2.5 REFERENCES………………………………………………………….69

CHAPTER THREE...………………………………………………….….…..71

3.0 GENERAL PLANNING PRINCIPLES AND DESIGN

CONSIDERATIONS……………………………………..……….…….72

3.1 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS……………………………………..…..73

3.1.1 SECURITY…………………………………………………………….73

3.1.2 HOUSING……………………………………………………………...75

3.1.3 SPACES FOR SOCIALISATION/INTERACTION………………….77

3.1.4 CIRCULATION………………………………………………………...81

3.1.5 FIRE SAFETY ………………………………………………………...86

3.1.6 ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS……………………………………88

3.1.7 LIGHTING…………………………………………………………….90

3.1.8 VENTILATION………………………………………………………..95

3.1.9 VEGETATION…………………………………………………………97

3.1.10 ORIENTATION…………………………………………………...….100

3.2 PLANNING PRINCIPLES FOR CAMPS…………………………...102

3.3 PLANNING PRINCIPLES FOR ADAPTABLE SPACES………….105

3.4.2 THE PRINCIPLES…………………………………………………....108

3.5 ADAPTABLE APPROACHES TO FLEXIBILITY (A case study)…121

3.5.1 Non-kinetic approaches………………………………………………...121

3.5.2 Kinetic approaches……………………………………………………..125

3.6 REFERENCES ……………………………………………………….132

CHAPTER FOUR......………………………………………………….…….133

4.0 DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS……………………..…...134

4.1 SITE LOCATION STUDIES (Abuja, FCT.)…………………………..143

4.2 SITE CHARACTER AND ANALYSIS…………………………..…...156

4.2.1 Geographical Location of the site and Katampe Extension…………...156

4.2.2 Choice of Location…………………………………………………….159

4.2.3 Geology, Soil and Land Capability…………………………………….161

4.2.4 Climatic Analysis………………………………………………………163

4.2.5 Terrain, Topography and vegetation of Katampe Extension………….165


ix

4.2.6 SITE ANALYSIS………………………………...………………….166

4.3 CHARACTERISTIC HOUSING PROBLEM IN ABUJA AS A

WARM-WET CLIMATE REGION ……………………………...…169

4.3.1 Design Solution and Recommendations in the FCT……………….…170

4.4 SPACE REQUIREMENT AND FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS…..……171

4.5 SPACE PROGRAMME…………………………………………..……188

4.6 DESIGN CRITERIA………………………………………………..….197

4.7 REFERENCES………………………………………………………..200

CHAPTER FIVE......……………………………………………….…….…..201

5.0 DESIGN PHILOSOPHY……………………………………………....202

5.0.1 When order meets flexibility…………………………………………..202

5.1 DESIGN CONCEPT AND SYNTHESIS…………………………..….204

5.1.1 Planning concept………………………………………………………206

5.1.2 Methods to achieve adaptable spaces……………………………….….208

5.2 DESIGN CONTRIBUTION…………………………...……………....209

5.3 SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS……...210

5.3.1 Summary…………………………………………………………….…210

5.3.2 Conclusions ……………………………………………………….…...210

5.3.3 Recommendations……………………………………………………...211

5.4 REFERENCES……………………………………………………..…..212

APPENDIX……………………………………….………………………..…..214

BIBLIOGRAPHY……………………………………...………………..…….220


x

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Comparism between Cellular Plan and Open Plan Approach...................122

Table 2: Climatological Information of Abuja Showing Annual Temperature

and Rainfall Distribution Of Abuja ……………………………………. ..163

Table 3: Space Requirements for Administration………………………………….188

Table 4: Space Requirements for Kit Store………………………………………..190

Table 5: Space Requirements for Parade Ground………………………………….190

Table 5b: Space Requirements for Man O‘ War Bay……………………………...191

Table 6a: Space Requirements for Housing………………………………………..191

Table 6b: Space Requirements for Housing……………………………………….192

Table 6c: Space Requirements for Housing……………………………………….192

Table 6d: Space Requirements for Housing……………………………………….193

Table 7: Space Requirements for Catering………………………………………...193

Table 8: Space Requirements for Clinic…………………………………………...194

Table 9: Space Requirements for Educational Units………………………………194

Table 10: Space Requirements for OBS……………………..…………………….195

Table 12: Space Requirements for Mammy Market……………………………….196

Table 12: Space Requirements for Mammy Market……………………………….196


xi

LIST OF FIGURES

Fig 1. Use of partitions in early schools…………………………………………...…20

Fig 2a and 2b. Interior (1300‘s Daikakuji Palace of Emperor Saga Kyoto City) ...…20

Fig 3a and 3b: Upper floor of the Schroder house with partitions………………..…22

Fig 4: The universal space concept…………………………………………………..26

Fig 5: ―The served and the servant spaces‖ space concept…………………………..27

Fig 6: The ‗blurred zone‘ concept……………………………………………………27

Fig 7: The Intelligent Workspace…………………………………………………….28

Fig 8: Flexibo Housing…………………………………………………………….....28

Fig 9: Adaptable Options…………………………………………………………….29

Fig 10. Universal Options……………………………………………………………29

Fig 11: Showing part of NYSC camp Kubwa Village………………………………30

Fig 12. Schematic site plan of NYSC camp, Kubwa Village FCT…………………..31

Fig 13. Sketch plan of the multipurpose hall...............................................................33

Fig 14: showing site layout…………………………………………………………..39

Fig 15: Sketch plan of the hostel.................................................................................41

Fig 16: Showing a schematic site layout……………………………………………..47

Fig 17: Google image of the location and road map to Casino de Paris…………..…50

Fig 18: Marie Jujurieux section……………………………………………………....53

Fig 19: Marie Jujurieux section……………………………………………………....53

Fig 20: Marie Jujurieux section………………………………………………………54

Fig 21: Google earth road map for Kabale…………………………………………...55

Fig 22: section of the multi-use space……………………………………………..…56

Fig 22. The multi-use space used as a regular classroom……………………………57

Fig 24. The multi-use space used as assembly, dining and public event layout……..58

Fig 25: the multi-use space used as group work space……………………….………58

Fig 26: Road and site map of Heartwood showing trails and facilities………………59

Fig 27: part of site map showing maintenance sections and conference center……...60

Fig 28: part of site map showing Lake Julia, sports courts, campfire rings etc……...61

Fig 29: eagle place lower level……………………………………………………….62

Fig 30: eagle place upper level……………………………………………………….63

Fig 31: white pine assembly/dining hall……………………………………………...63

Fig 32. Illustrating different consideration parameters ……………………………..72


xii

Fig 33: Housing for all……………………………………………………………….76

Fig 34: Circulation…………………………………………………………………...81

Fig 35 different circulation patterns…………………………………………………82

Fig 36. Illustrates the arrival movement pattern of corp members………………….83

Fig 37: The daily movement pattern of corp members……………….……………...84

Fig 38: dimensions for vehicle and turning radius………………………………..…86

Fig 39: Showing a fire extinguisher…………………………………………………87

Fig 40: camp building outlining fire preventive measures...........................................88

Fig 41: waste disposal bin............................................................................................89

Fig 42: illustrates day lighting through lateral and north light.....................................91

Fig 43: illustrates methods of illumination (top (sky) lighting)...................................92

Fig44: illustrates lighting techniques...........................................................................93

Fig 45: various types of roof light with their daylight distribution pattern..................94

Fig 46: illustrates orientations and its effects on ventilation…………………………95

Fig 47: illustrates cross ventilation...............................................................................96

Fig 48a and 48b: illustrates pressure from wind aiding natural ventilation (left) and

alignment of partitions to reduce resistance for cross ventilation (right).....................96

Fig 49a and 49b: illustrates stack ventilation left and right.........................................96

Fig 50: cross ventilation in a residential block.............................................................97

Fig 51: vegetation and architecture..............................................................................98

Fig 52: trees used as shading device............................................................................99

Fig 53. illustrates WE orientation...............................................................................100

Fig 54. Illustrates NE orientation...............................................................................101

Fig 55. Illustrates NW orientation..............................................................................101

Fig 56. illustrating bunk arrangements to reduce disease spread…………………...104

Fig 57: Flexabilt Home……………………………………………………………...109

Fig 58a, 58b and 58c: adaptable/movable seating, requiring storage to function…..111

Fig 59: sound diffusion, reflection, absorption and material for achieving such…...113

Fig 60: floor plans. Left to right; NHK Hall – Tokyo, Syphony Hall – Boston, Concert

Hall of the Sydney Opera House, and Teatro Alla Scala – Milan………………….115

Fig 61: showing section on top and plan bottom ………………………………..…117

Fig 62: Measured reverberation time after acoustical treatment……………………120

Fig 63: illustration of varied uses an open space could be configured into………...121


xiii

Fig 64: use of partitions and expansion spaces to reconfigure spaces.................... ..124

Fig 65: sections: movable floors ...............................................................................127

Fig 66: chart showing suggested sports facilities to be provided ………………...135

Fig 67: chart showing suggested non-NYSC activities to be incorporated……......136

Fig 68: venues for corper‘s social interaction ……………………………………..139

Fig 69: distribution for activities that prepared an average corper the most…….....141

Fig 70: distribution for activities that prepared an average corper the most……….142

Fig 71: Map of Africa showing the countries with Nigeria (coloured pink)…….....143

Fig 72: Map of Nigeria showing the 36 states and ………………………………...144

Fig 73: Map of Abuja FCT showing the area councils …………………………....144

Fig 74: Map of Nigeria showing the 36 states and the FCT (centralized)…………..146

Fig 75: map of Nigeria showing the vegetation spread…………………………….149

Fig 76a and 76b: total annual rainfall spread and temperature spread …………….151

Fig 77: land use map of Abuja municipal area council (AMAC)……………….…154

Fig 77: Map of Abuja Municipal Area Council showing the phases …………...…155

Fig 78: Part of Abuja‘s area councils showing Katampe Extension (circled)……...155

Fig 79: Map of katampe extension showing all the plots ………………………….156

Fig 80: AGIS map showing Katampe Extension with proposed site ……………...157

Fig 81. map of Katampe Extension showing infrastructure ………………………..160

Fig 82 : map showing geology of the FCT ………………………………………...162

Fig 83: showing annual wind speed distribution of Abuja…………………………164

Fig 84: showing annual precipitation of Abuja …………………………………..164

Fig 85: showing annual temperature distribution of Abuja………………………....165

Fig 86: close-up Google earth-generated contour map of Katampe Extension…....166

Fig 87: climatic analysis of proposed site……………………………………….....167

Fig 87: site analysis showing noise source and drainage flow……………………..168

Fig 88: site analysis showing existing structures around the proposed site………..169

Fig 89. Rainfall distribution of Nigeria …………………………………………….170

Fig 90. showing the camp spaces and their relationship............................................172

Fig 91 showing admin and its space relationship…………………………………...174

Fig 92: Showing the kit store spaces and their relationships……………………....175

Fig 93. showing the parade ground and it space relationship………………………176

Fig 94: showing the man O war and it space relationship………………………..…177


xiv

Fig 95 . showing the housing unit and it space relationship………………………...179

Fig 96. Showing the catering unit and its space relationship……………………….180

Fig 97. showing the camp clinic and it space relationship………………………….181

Fig 98. Showing the Educational unit and its space relationship…………………...182

Fig 99. showing the OBS and its space relationship………………………………..183

Fig 100: showing the gymnasium and its space relationship……………………….184

Fig 101. showing the mammy-market and its space relationship..............................185

Fig. 102 showing the camp court and its space relationship………………………..186

Fig 103. showing the maintenance unit and its space relationship………………....187

Fig 104. showing the chapel and its space relationship…………………………….188

Fig 105. showing the mosque and its space relationship………………………...…188

Fig 106; model of scope of architecture…………………………………………….206

Fig 107. showing grouping of activities………………………………………….....208

LIST OF PLATES

Plate 1: Corps members taking part in a parade……………………………………...25

Plate 2a and 2b: billboard displaying the camp directory and....................................32

Plate 3a and 3b: the auditorium/multipurpose hall (left) and its interior.....................33

Plate 4a and 4b. Showing the chapel (left) and the mosque (right)............................34

Plate 5a and 5b. Showing the Male Hostels (left) and female hostels (right).............34

Plate 6a and 6b. water storage tank (left) and volleyball court facilities (right)..........34

Plate 7a and a7b. service entrance gate (left) and public conveniences (right)............35

Plate 8a and 8b: Showing cabins for military personnel and camp clinic (left)

and Nigeria Breweries stand ―mammy‖ market (right)...............................................35

Plate 9a and 9b. Showing the former NYSC secretariat (left) and the

dilapidated dining hall and cabins (right).....................................................................36

Plate 11a and 11b: female hostels (left) and interior of female hostels (right)……...42


xv

Plate 12a and 12b. man O war bay (left) and the parade ground (right).....................42

Plate 13a and 13b. Showing the dining/refectory (left) and the food store (right)......42

Plate 14a and 14b. the multipurpose hall (left) and mammy-market (right)...............43

Plate 15a and 15b . Showing the camp clinic (left) and the kits store (right).............43

Plate 16a and 16b: showing a multipurpose hall (left) and classrooms......................48

Plate 17a and 17b. Showing corpers hostels (left) and man o‘ war bay (right)......49

Plate 18a and 18b: Entrance (left) and Casino de Paris used as a theatre………....…51

Plate 19a and 19b: Casino de Paris as a concert hall (left) and Casino de Paris used

for formal dining (right)……………………………………………………………...51

Plate 20a and 20b: Marie Jujurieux as an assembly hall……………………………..52

Plate 21: Marie Jujurieux…………………………………………………………….53

Plate 22a and 22b: Jujurieux as an assembly hall (left) and as a community gathering

for the elderly (right)…………………………………………………………………54

Plate 23: showing the entrance of a cabin…………………………………………....64

Plate 24: Hickory lodge view………………………………………………………...65

Plate 25a and 25b: Showing a meeting place and central meeting room interiors...…65

Plate 26a and 26: RVs parked at the Meadowview Park by campers ……………….66

Plate 27a and 27b: Showing the entrance of the Oakwood Center (left) and the

interior of the dining at the Oakwood Center………………………………..……….67

Plate 28: showing a dormitory and walkway paths around the building……………..67

Plate 29a and 29b: bunks in the rooms (left) and other interior facilities (right)…….68

Plate 30: Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps marshalling corps members …74

Plate 31: Perimeter security………………………………………………………..…75

Plate 32: central arena designed for socialization…………………………………....77

Plate 33: Corpers socializing in a mammy market…………………………………...79

Plate 34: Corp members in Kubwa camp multipurpose hall during lectures….......…79

Plate 35: Corp members socializing around trees…………………………………....80

Plate 36: shows a well day-lit interior space................................................................90

Plate 37: seating in The Jujurieux as an assembly hall………….………………….110

Plate 38: Photo of the training centre, before refurbishment…………………….....118

Plate 39: Microperforated Foil Absorber as mobile roller blinds in front of the

windows of the training centre…………………………………………………...…119

Plate 40: View onto the rear wall and the projection screen………………………..120


xvi

Plates 41a and 41b. shelve and cabinet used for more than one purpose...................122

Plate 42: Macassar ebony sliding wall used for partitioning .....................................124

Plate 43: Multiroll partition hung (notice the larger arena)........................................126

Plate 44: Multiroll partition pulled down to create separate spaces ..........................126

Plate 45: Aerial photograph of the Amsterdam Arena, roof open…………………..128

Plate 46: Aerial photograph of the Amsterdam Arena, roof closed………………...128

Plate 47: a hall left open for presentations……………………………………….....130

Plate 48: seating during retraction………………………………………………..…130

Plate 49: hall adapted for conferencing……………………………………………..131

Plate 50: corpers taking part in a football match ………………………………….136

Plate 51: girls during a sewing skill acquisition scheme…………………………...137

Plate 52: young people during a football academy session in Abuja …………..…138

Plate 53: people practicing calisthenics for a festival in Beijing china, …………..138

Plate 54: corpers interacting during expedition…………………………………….140

Plates 55a and 55b: man o‘ war guide with female corper during paramilitary

drill (left) and corpers taking part in jogging (right)…………………………….…141

Plate 56: Showing Zuma rock……………………………………………………...145

Plate 57: showing some Gbagyi women with loads on their shoulders……………147

Plate 58: skyline/aerial view of Abuja FCT……………………………………….153

Plate 59: Google earth image showing Katampe Extension………………………..157

Plate 60: close-up Google earth image of the proposed NYSC orientation camp....158

Plate 61: showing the access road to the site and street lights ……………………158

Plate 62: showing part of the site, part of the adjacent site, and part of the access

road in with hills in the background ………………………………………………..159

Plate 63: corps members in Zamfara state taking part in mountain climbing……....160

Plate 64: people taking part in a fitness course…………………………………….199

Plate 65; Robert Jupe‘s ―expanding table‖ closed………………………………..…203

Plate 66a and 66b; expanding table‘s patent drawing and the table expanded …….204

CHAPTER ONE


1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

There has been a significant trend recently in the design of public spaces towards

the development of multi-functional facilities which offer users more than the

primary services for which they are provided. Even private spaces like homes are

following suit. It is now becoming common in modern designs and development to

find spaces designed in such a way as to allow for an efficient integration of many

other different activities. Examples can be cited in the works of L3P Architects:

Multifunctional Double Sports Halls in the Eichi Centre, Niederglatt, 2009, the La

Llotja Theatre in the Netherlands by Mecanoo Architects and the Sjakket Youth

Club in Copenhagen, Denmark by PLOT Architects, 2007 where the centre‘s

multi-functional character is best illustrated through the varied use of the vaulted

spaces, one is held completely empty for sporting events, whereas the other one can

be used for activities, such as concerts or communal activities. In many instances,

such facilities can serve completely different and many services within the same

environment. For example, a multipurpose space may need to accommodate a wide

variety of activities, such as dining, plays, films, assemblies, community meetings,

physical education, and large group instruction. Butin (2000)

Today, the point is not so much about tearing down walls as it is about the variety

of ways in which individuals occupy space. It‘s important to ask how one really

lives (using a home setting as case study). If the bedroom doubles as your home

office, or the kitchen is the place where entertaining is liveliest, thus, letting the

http://www.plot.dk/


2

design serve both ends. ―Designing spaces that are flexible but multipurpose is the

surest way to maximize your pleasure in using them.‖ Daoana (2009). Spaces are

no longer the cut-out, one-purpose-at-a-time areas that we have thought them to be.

This is considered positive since it only means that we don‘t have to fit our

activities and habits within specific spaces contained by four walls and that all the

space we need is already there in the first place. We now perceive spaces from the

point of view of how it can serve us well and also optimized for other purposes.

Adaptable buildings are widely recognized as intrinsic to a sustainable built

environment. In principle, a building that can last while its parts gradually change

will place a lighter load on natural and human resources and provide value to future

generations. Further, if the parts that do change over time are designed for

assembly, disassembly and reuse, if not recycling, this is an additional benefit in the

service of a sustainable future. Kendall, Ando (2004)

This paper will examine a series of projects and designs where the concept of

adaptable spaces was applied in their design and see how it can be applied in the

design of a Permanent NYSC orientation camp for Abuja, FCT where the provided

spaces are meant to be adaptable to changes in use.

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

1.1.1 The Architectural Space

Studies of space are found in many disciplines, where they have different

meanings. It is a concept that is central to many different areas of study and has

varied meanings, ranging from totally abstract notions such as mathematical space,


3

to physical ones such as astronomical space, to more earthly ones such as the

expanse that surrounds us, to behavioral notions such as territorial space and

personal space. This great variety of possible types of space makes any definition

of space in planning and design difficult. Generally speaking, however, space is the

three-dimensional extension of the world around us, the intervals, distances and

relationships between people and things. Pultar (1999). In this research paper,

architectural space is what our concern will be with. In that light, ―Space is, quite

simply, what we use in buildings‖. Hillier (2007 p.19)

According to Pultar (1999); architectural space is defined as subsets of the three-

dimensional extension of the world around us such that it is entered by man,

includes definite material elements, especially a base, that allow one to perceive its

boundaries and is perceived as a whole, serves human functions of habitation,

shelter or circulation, and is intentionally built or appropriated by man to serve such

functions. According to this definition, not only well defined spaces such as halls

and rooms, but also arrangements of furniture so as to define a spatial expanse,

allowing it to be perceived as a whole, should be considered as an architectural

space, too. According to Baxter and Martin (2010); architectural space is used to

shape and express identity. The notion of architectural space should also be

understood to include structures of space, i.e. sets of spaces so interrelated to each

other that the functions they serve extend through these spaces. Pultar (1999). Thus,

just as rooms and halls in buildings may be individually considered architectural

spaces, so can buildings as structures of spaces.


4

An important characteristic of architectural space is man's involvement in its

generation and his partaking of life in it. In this sense, architectural space is

diachronic in addition to its spatially expansive nature. This diachronic aspect will

be indicated by our use of the term life-cycle of architectural space. Pultar (1999).

For the purpose of this paper, hereafter, the term space will be used to mean

architectural space.

1.1.2 Flexible Adaptable Spaces

Definitions put an adaptable space in architecture as a space that is flexible enough

to be used for more than one activity. One condition that must be met for a space to

qualify to be tagged adaptable is that those subject activities have to be mutually

exclusive and the functionality of those spaces efficient. There are a lot of terms

associated with adaptable spaces like:

a) Adaptive reuse of buildings where a building or a space can be used and

adapted for other purposes. This is just about the same as the subject under study in

this paper in the sense that the purposes for which the spaces are provided can be

changed from time to time in an efficient manner. Greden (2005)

A clear example of adaptive reuse of building can be cited in the Hagia Sophia in

Istanbul, Turkey that served as a church for 916 years, a mosque for 481 years and

a museum since 1935. Greden (2005)

b) Flexibility, according to Encarta dictionaries, is the ability to bend or be bent

repeatedly without damage or injury, ability to change or be changed according to

circumstances or being able to be persuaded or influenced. But for the purpose of

this study and the context, flexibility is the ability to change within existing main


5

structure. There are usually some built-in possibilities to rearrange, take away, or

add elements and systems. Blakstad (2002). It is normally associated with terms

like modular, mobile and re-arrangeable.

c) Mixed-use development is the practice of allowing more than one type of use in

a building or set of buildings. In planning zone terms, this can mean some

combination of residential, commercial, industrial, office, institutional, or other

land uses. In essence, Mixed-Use is more a reference to a zoning district that allows

for a variety of uses within one district. Tombari (2005). Throughout most of

human history, the majority of human settlements developed as mixed-use

environments. Most buildings were not divided into discrete functions on a room by

room basis, and most neighborhoods contained a diversity of uses, even if some

districts developed a predominance of certain uses, such as metalworkers, or

textiles or footwear due to the socio-economic benefits. This was particularly true

in cities, and the ground floor of buildings was often devoted to some sort of

commercial or productive use, with living space upstairs.

Mixed-use was the norm before the development of modern zoning and land-use

practices. Such mixed-use commercial and residential areas thrived into the

twentieth century, often at intersections and transit stops. Modern zoning practices

assigned land uses according to function Houses were segregated from commerce,

work, and school. In the 1960s and 70s mixed use re-emerged, as a tool for urban

revitalization, in large- scale projects referred to among the development

community as MXDs. Miller (2003).

d) Multifunctional has different meanings in different contexts but in architecture,

it is the Properties of a building, space, or system that will allow it to be used in

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoning


6

different ways and for different functions in capacity, dimensions and in robustness.

Blakstad (2002).

According to Korschildgen (2006), the conventional architectural space offers

limited shapes and functions – ignoring the ambiguity, inconsistency and

complexity of today‘s life. Adaptable space is interested in an optional architecture,

changeable and adaptable spaces that allow different perceptions and interpretations

for living. They are spaces that can serve multiple functions, typically incorporating

(usually) freestanding furniture elements that can be shifted and moved in response

to the work at hand. Wymer (2010). In as much as there are lots of benefits in

adaptable spaces, there are also down sides to it as noted by Dutton (2007):

The more uses intended for a space, however, the less likely a space

will strongly reflect any one application, and congregations should

be prepared to accept trade offs in design and décor. “Sometimes

you have to make compromises for multi-purpose spaces,” explains

Caputo.

1.1.2 The NYSC scheme and adaptable spaces in camps

The NYSC scheme was created in a bid to reconstruct, reconcile and rebuild the

country after the Nigerian Civil war. www.nysc.gov.ng (2010). The unfortunate

antecedents in our national history gave impetus to the establishment of the

National Youth Service Corps by decree No.24 of 22nd May 1973 which stated that

the NYSC is being established "with a view to the proper encouragement and

development of common ties among the youths of Nigeria and the promotion of

national unity". Danfulani and Aja (2008). It involves Nigerian youths going

through a compulsory service of the country in different sectors of the country for

http://www.nysc.gov.ng/


7

one calendar year. For a successful service year, the directorate has outlined five

sections as follows:

Mobilization

Orientation Programme

Primary Assignment

Community Development Scheme (CDS)

Passing out.

Source: “National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course And Service

Guide” For 2010 Batch „A‟ Corps Members Deployed To The Federal

Capital Territory,

Every Nigerian graduate both at home and abroad under the age of thirty is required

to participate in the orientation programme since it was designed to mark the

beginning of the corps members service year. As from 1st July, 1977, it became

mandatory for all Nigerian graduates from institutions of Higher Learning both at

home and abroad to participate in the National Youth Service Corps Scheme

irrespective of the age at graduation except for those served with exception

certificate on ground of age or any other of the above grounds. www.nysc.gov.ng

(2010). The orientation programme, the section of the whole NYSC scheme in

which this study is interested is a course designed to mark the beginning of the

corps member‘s service year. According to Ata (2010);

“After being mobilized, the Orientation Programme is the next

stage of the NYSC and the service guide acquaints you with the

environment to which you have been deployed to serve.”



8

According to the report to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Plateau State

directorate (2009); the scheme starts with a 3 weeks orientation camp where

graduates are camped in an area where their movement is restricted. At the

orientation camp, graduates are introduced into the scheme and are taught life skills

and orientated with national and civic values. Participants of the scheme are posted

to schools where they teach children, hospitals, government agencies and

parastatals, non-profit organisations and other private corporations. Over the years,

the NYSC had served as a veritable source of the much needed manpower in

crucial sectors, and hence, contributing to national development.

The orientation programme, which lasts for three to four weeks in a designated

camp, is designed to train and equip participants with paramilitary drills. The drills

and other exercises are meant to improve participant‘s physical fitness as well as to

instill in them the spirit of collective action. It also aims at giving the proper

understanding of the objectives of the scheme and to ensure that they internalize the

ideals. Furthermore, during the orientation exercise, attempt is made to familiarize

participants with the new environment by introducing them to the cultures and

traditions of the people. Danfulani et. al. (2008). According the NYSC Directorate

Abuja chief librarian, Mrs. Mubu Nababa, for the orientation camp to take place,

orientation camps are chosen and designated for the activities. The camps are in

form of any other youth camp details of which will be discussed in the next chapter.

An NYSC orientation camp, just like any other camp has built in facilities that apart

from serving its purpose during the three-week orientation course could be utilized

optimally for other purposes when the orientation programme is not in progress.


9

Adaptability of spaces for other non-NYSC activities on the other hand, if applied

in the planning and design of such camps will promote an availability of different

relevant spaces at one place; just like Korschildgen (2006) pointed out that relevant

spaces can be made available all in one place either short term or long term

orientated, related to specific activities.

For the purpose of this study, the spaces provided will be made adaptable for the

activities of the NYSC Orientation Course and other activities like Skill acquisition

programs, Fitness courses and Preparation and accommodation ground for national

festivals and events in the FCT. The facilities provided should be flexible enough in

use to efficiently service those activities.

1.2 STATEMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL PROBLEM

Buildings are generally not designed and constructed to absorb change easily, at the

same time, change is accelerating but the spaces we create are largely static and

unresponsive. Greden (2005). In an attempt to address this issue, the concepts of

flexibility and adaptable spaces are employed in the planning process of spaces and

design of structures. Just like every other approach, flexibility comes with its own

lapses where the architectural problem lies.

According to Butin (2000), critics contend that such a "jack of all trades" mentality

forces the multipurpose space into a position of not serving any one need well.

Although it cannot perform specific functions as suitably as spaces designed for

specialized uses, a well conceived multipurpose space nevertheless can be an

adequate all-around facility.


10

The architectural problem that this thesis attempts to address is the adaptable use of

spaces in an NYSC orientation camp. The area of study focuses on adaptable

spaces which will provide a guide for the provision of spaces for some facilities

such as multipurpose hall and hostels/dormitories that are flexible enough to adapt

to changes in use i.e. efficiency in switching between one purpose and another in a

given space.

1.3 AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study is to create a multifunctional environment that will

accommodate the spatial requirements of the NYSC orientation camp and other

activities. The spaces provided are to be adaptable and flexible enough for change

when the need arises and such proposed activities are: a) Skill acquisition programs

b) Fitness courses and c) Preparation and accommodation ground for national

festivals and events in the FCT.

1.4 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1) To understand the various purposes for which the spaces are to be provided.

2) To establish the need for creating spaces for such facilities.

3) To study principles and methods of applying adaptable space concept in designs.

4) To establish the viability, adaptability and compatibility of such purposes in

relation to each other and to the environment.

5) To create an environment flexible enough to accommodate the specified

purposes efficiently making sure the separate needs of the purposes are properly

met.


11

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The importance of adaptable spaces cannot be overemphasized. A floor plan with

enclosed, single-purpose rooms is far less adaptable to changing household needs,

sizes and functions than open-space plans.

Using a library with adaptable spaces as case study, one may say, however, that in

the majority of cases where library facilities have shared space or buildings with

other activities in this manner, the primary objective has been explicitly social,

cultural or educative, aiming to enhance the attractiveness, relevance and

accessibility of the library service by co-locating or merging it with similar social

and cultural activities, meeting places and spaces where communities come

together. (Robinson 2006). From this, one can say that making a space more

adaptable for other activities makes it more attractive than it would have naturally

been if it were for single use. Economy-wise, it could be advantageous if the

facilities are turn-over and profit oriented.

In developing countries like Nigeria where constraints of budget, technical

infrastructure, management capacity and lack of resources have meant that the

provision of basic, standard and adequate infrastructures may be in short supply. It

becomes imperative that in the design such infrastructure, considerations should be

given to making it multi-use oriented and flexible in that light.

Presently, the NYSC scheme is a state-run programme that introduces indigenous

graduate youths into a one-year service of their country. Government policy

changes affects the programme in so many ways as noticed in the year 2008 when

the number deployed batches was increased from two to three. This affected the


12

pressure on camp facilities and schedule in the use of such facilities. In extreme

cases, the programme could be scrapped if the government through its policies feels

the programme is no longer relevant to the state. It is in such a scenario that the

study of adaptable spaces becomes very significant because the spaces could be

converted for use for other purposes.

On the other hand, one of the goals of this research is to provide the NYSC scheme

with the opportunity to test new adaptable approaches to camp spaces. The data and

insights collected can guide the scheme toward more effective adaptable orientation

camp spaces in the future.

1.6 MOTIVATION

According to Davidson et. al. (2006); to ‗waste‘ is one tendency with which

humans can easily be identified. It is also apparent that the construction industry is

exceedingly wasteful in the way that it supplies building space to the commercial

market. The requirement for building adaptability is becoming increasingly relevant

from both commercial and sustainability perspectives. In the UK, the government

has identified, in Policy Planning Guidance notes, the need to optimize the use of

existing building stock therefore encouraging the conversion of redundant office

and retail space into leisure, service or residential uses. Davidson et. al. (2006). A

simple observation of orientation camp facilities across the country will note the

fact that they are left unutilized especially when the orientation course is not in

progress.


13

The motivation for this study is derived from the fact that waste of such facilities

can be reduced with new knowledge in applying adaptability in the use of spaces in

NYSC Orientation Camps.

1.7 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

The scope of this study will cover research done on and theories related to

adaptable, flexible and multifunctional spaces applying such study in the design of

a NYSC permanent orientation camp. The scope will involve the design of such

facilities as:

Accommodation facilities for both corps memebers and staff (3,200 bed for

both male and female)

3,000 seating capacity multipurpose hall adaptable to the activities of both

the orientation programme and skill acquisition programmes.

Administrative block/facilities.

The scope will therefore be limited to site planning and the detailed development of

the aforementioned spaces. The minimum requirements for adaptable spaces are to

be satisfied in this dissertation in providing for a conducive atmosphere and a

befitting environment for the proper orientation of youths deployed to the Federal

Capital Territory, Abuja and other secondary activities. Other facilities such as

worship places, Man-O‘ War bays and parade ground (adaptable for fitness

courses), dining and kitchen, mammy market and maintenance/services etc. would

be handled on the site planning level.


14

1.8 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The project research made use of primary and secondary sources of information.

The primary sources and methods employed are as follows:

Oral interviews given to NYSC officials,

Questionnaires for youth corpers and other people,

Case studies (local and foreign)

Personal observation and experience

The secondary sources used are as follows:

Journals,

Unpublished works related to the study,

Text books,

Relevant thesis reports,

Newspaper, online and magazine articles


15

1.9 REFERENCES

Blakstad S. H. 2002, ―Strategies to Improve Adaptability in Office Buildings‖,

Norwegian University Of Science And Technology & SINTEF Building And

Infrastructure. Pp 34-36

Butin D. 2000. ―Multipurpose Spaces‖, National Clearinghouse for Educational

Facilities, 1090 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Suite 700, Washington, D.C.

Country Coordinator, Earth Charter Nigeria & Youth Empowerment And

Development Initiative (YEDI), 3rd

February 2009 ‗Report of a courtesy

call/introduction of the earth charter to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)

Plateau State directorate‘ pp.2

Danfulani S. A. And Aja A.(Eds) 2008, ― NYSC in its Fourth Decade: A Strategic

Policy Output For National Development‖, Spectrum Books Limited, Ibadan.

Pp159-158

Davison N., A.G. Gibb, S.A. Austin, C.I.Goodier, 2006, ―The Multispace adaptable

building concept and its extension into mass customization‖, Department of Civil

and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, England. P.

Warner, Reid Architecture, West End House, 11 Hills Place, London.

Daoana C. A. 2009, ―The Beauty Of Multi-Functional Spaces‖ Article on the Art

Object.

Denise Amy Baxter, Meredit Martin (2010), ‗Architectural Space in Eighteenth-

Century Europe‘, Published By Ashgate Publishing, April 2010


16

Dutton Barbara, 2007, ―Plan Ahead and Prioritize: Get The Most Out of Multi-

Purpose Spaces‖, Workhorse Publishing LLC.

Encarta dictionaries 2009

Greden L. 2005. ―Flexibility in Building Design: A Real Options Approach and

Valuation Methodology to Address Risk‖. Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Pp. 16

Hillier Bill, 2007, ―Space Is the Machine: A Configurational Theory of

Architecture‖, Press Syndicate of the University Of Cambridge. Pp19

Kendall Stephen and Masao Ando, 2004, ―Theory and Methods in Support of

Adaptable Buildings‖ pp1

Korschildgen K. 2006, ―Adaptable Housing: Demographic Change and Alternative

Housing Models‖, Cologne, Germany

Miler N. A. 2003, ―Defining Mixed-Use Development‖, Design Center for

American Urban Landscape. Pp 3-7

Miller H. 2009. ―Adaptable Spaces and Their Impact on Learning‖. Research

summary. Pp 3.

―National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course And Service Guide‖ For 2010

Batch ‗A‘ Corps Members Deployed To The Federal Capital Territory, Published

By The Public Relations Unit, NYSC-FCT.


17

―Orientation Course General Policy Guidelines‖, 2004, Produced And Published

By The Planning Division, PRS Department, NYSC National Directorate

Headquarters, Abuja.

Pultar M. 1999, ―A Structured Approach to Cultural Studies of Architectural

Space‖, Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, Bilkent University

Tombari E. A. 2005, ―Smart Growth, Smart Choices Series: Mixed-Use

Development‖, National Association of Home Builders. Pp 3

www.nysc.gov.ng (2010). Historical background of the NYSC

Wymer T. 2010, ―Proportional Planning for the Adaptable Workplace‖, knoll inc.

pp 5

mailto:[email protected]



18

CHAPTER TWO


19

2.0 REVIEW OF LITERATURE

An adaptable space flexibly responds to the requirements of any human activity

from habitation, leisure, education, medicine, commerce, industry. Adaptability

may range from multi-use interior re-organization to complete structure

transformability to difficult site and programmatic response. Kronenburg, (1997).

Adaptable architecture considers the rapidly changing patterns of human interaction

with the built environment. New architectural types are emerging and evolving

within today‘s technologically developing society. These new programs present

practical architectural situations for unique and wholly unexplored applications that

address today‘s dynamic, flexible and constantly changing activities.

Adaptable spaces in architecture have generated lots of interests and a lot of

research has also been done. Some works in this regard can also be seen through

the years in the design and construction of homes, educational facilities, public

spaces like auditoriums, work places and health facilities. As a matter of fact, the

notion of functional flexibility and adaptable spaces has been a recurring theme in

architecture.

2.1 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

2.1.1 Historical Background: Adaptable spaces

As early as 1849, a proposed school design called for the grouping of four

classrooms around a central hall ―in which the infant school is taught and where the

school is assembled for other general exercises.‖ CRS archives document, (1996)

pp.4. The hall was not divisible, but the principle of multipurpose space for

assembly and instructional purposes clearly had been established. The records do


20

not indicate just when the first architect or educator thought of such a hall with

operable partitions. But, by the turn of the century, New York City was including in

virtually all its elementary schools an assembly room that can be divided, by means

of wooden partitions that moved on metal tracks, into four classrooms of equal size.

Fig 1. Use of partitions in early schools.

Source: schools without walls

Fig 2a and 2b. Interior (1300‟s Daikakuji Palace of Emperor Saga Kyoto City) with fusuma

closed (left) and same interior with fusuma open (right).

Source: order and flexibility (1998)


21

According to Malofiy (1998); the origin of movable interior partitions can be traced

to the Japanese ―fusuma‖. These sliding panels were constructed with a wooden

frame strengthened by cross battens to which several layers of paper were glued. A

layer of decorative paper was then fixed over the whole and the faces were

typically painted to depict a story. The ―fusuma‖ allowed the house to change with

the day and season. Their dynamic nature was sharply contrasted by the static

condition of the heavy timber posts and beams which brought order to the whole.

(See fig. 2a and 2b)

The New York City attempt at divisibility in the late 19th century proved hugely

unsuccessful (although a number of the divisible assembly rooms are still in use).

The halls are inadequate for both assembly and instruction. The wooden partitions

were acoustic sieves, permitting noises from one classroom space to intrude in the

others. The assembly hall worked poorly: because of its flat floor, it was difficult

for the pupils in the rear to see what was occurring up front. CRS archives

document, (1996). To a large extent, this was considered a bold step towards

achieving adaptability and flexibility in the use of spaces in as much as there were

shortcomings.

There appeared across the nation such hybrids as the cafeteria-auditoriums (the

―cafetorium‖ of recent jargon), the auditorium-gymnasium, and, in extreme cases,

the auditorium-cum-gymnasium-cum-cafeteria. CRS archives document, (1996). A

recent study, for example, found that over half of Virginia‘s schools had a

"cafetorium," a combination cafeteria and auditorium. Butin, (2000). As far as

educational facilities in New York were concerned, the multipurpose room was

more successful than the hall-classroom combinations, largely because sound

transmission was not a problem. But flat-floored, they still did not serve as good


22

assembly or theatrical space. And they were costly at janitorial time: chairs and

equipment had to be shifted virtually from hour to hour as the room changed

function. Despite these problems, the multipurpose room remains a popular

solution and many are still being built into new schools. CRS archives document,

(1996)

In 1924, on the other hand, was a residential home called ‗Schroder House‘(fig. 3a

and 3b) designed by Gerrit Rietveld with the concept of flexibility, which paved

way for future flexible designs. Inside the living room of Schroder House is a

changeable open zone, which can be subdivided by sliding or revolving partitions.

The concept of movable partitions, inspired by the sliding Shoji screens and doors

of traditional Japanese architecture, is an idea employed by both early-modern and

contemporary architects to achieve flexibility.

Fig 3a and 3b: Upper floor of the Schroder house with partitions partially closed (left) and

with partitions open (right)

Source: order and flexibility (1998)

This method became particularly popular in the Industrial Age as advancements in

engineering technology minimized the need for structural elements in building

interiors and allowed for larger open spaces. Shifting Paradigms, (2008). Another

was ‗the learning studio‘ inspired by an artisan‘s studio. The Learning Studio

evolved from a design pattern for learning spaces first explored and implemented


23

by Eliel Saarinen at the Crow Island School in Winnetka, Illinois, in 1939. This

design pattern used an L-shaped model for classrooms. The result is an adaptable

space designed to meet the needs of students and faculty who learn and teach in the

space. This has prompted exploration of new types of spaces. The goal is to

understand the role of adaptable spaces in supporting the learning experience.

Miller (2009)

Multipurpose spaces became popular in the 1950s to accommodate the population

surge of today‘s schools. Butin, (2000). Beginning at the middle 1950‘s, however,

there were a series of developments that prompted a new look at the old New York

combination of assembly and instructional space. And, unlike the New York

educators of 1900, they found that industry had gained the know-how to produce

operable partitions that would act as an effective sound barrier and thus permit

divisibility in instructional space. CRS archives document, (1996). At the same

time, it was realized that good spaces for large-group lectures should have sloped or

stepped floors. In effect, that auditorium-type space would make good space for

lectures. In this way, the educators could have their assembly space and justify it on

both educational and economic grounds. CRS archives document, (1996).

The design of work places started getting attention much later after this knowledge

in adaptable spaces. In fact, as at 1960s, workspaces were fixed, requiring

demolition to accommodate changes. In the 1970s, companies realized their space

needs changed over time, so movable cubicles and partitions became prevalent in a

style known as flexible workspace, which was easily reconfigured using the same

physical elements. Feingold (2008). By the 1990s, workers began meeting and

collaborating in what is called a fluid workspace. When something is fluid, it


24

responds by users reconfiguring it to meet their needs while they are working. It

allows people to move from individual to collaborative work on the fly by giving

more control of space configuration in real time to users. Fluid space allows for

collaboration without workers needing to arrange meetings in advance. Feingold

(2008)

In the 1980s and 1990s, Peter Eisenman experimented with another form of flexible

architecture. Adapting Jacques Derrida‘s notion of an ‗arbitrary text,‘ Eisenman

formulated a ‗Blurred Zone‘ through randomly dislocating the conventional

architectural texts of function, site, program, and tectonics, ultimately creating a

space that is not finalized but rather in the state of constant change, and hence

metaphysically flexible. Shifting Paradigms, (2008). Fresh and new knowledge in

flexibility has continued to guide architectural designs in the present and one can

say with certainty that in the future, adaptable spaces will have a lot of influence in

architecture.

2.1.2 Historical Background: NYSC Scheme

General Yakubu Gowon a military leader who declared no victor no vanquished

situation for the two adversaries after the civil war created the NYSC scheme in a

bid to reconstruct, reconcile and rebuild the country after the Nigerian Civil war as

a parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Youth And Sports. The National Youth

Service Corps was established by decree No.24 of 22nd May 1973.

There was a need to look beyond the immediate present and to think of the future

leadership of the country that necessitated the mobilisation of certain categories of

our youths through the National Youth Service Corps Scheme. This was done with


25

a view to giving them the proper guidance and orientation relevant to the needs of

the country. The National Youth Service Corps Decree No. 24 which has now been

repealed and replaced by Decree 51 of 16th June 1993 was then formally

promulgated. The purpose of the scheme is primarily to inculcate in Nigerian

Youths the spirit of selfless service to the community, and to emphasize the spirit of

oneness and brotherhood of all Nigerians, irrespective of cultural or social

background. The history of Nigeria since independence has clearly indicated the

need for unity amongst all its people, and demonstrate the fact that no cultural or

geographical entity can exist in isolation.

The scheme which started with about two thousand three hundred and sixty

four(2364) corps members (15 years of NYSC – the journey so far,1986) by a

system of draft and mobilization of Nigerian graduates of higher institutions under

the age of thirty(30), now still with same system of draft now has over fifteen

thousand(15,000) corps members per batch. Initially two series of orientation

courses are usually organized in a year; one is by February/March and the other

September/October, but with the recent increase in the number of graduates in the

country, in 2008, it was increased to three series the first in March, the second in

July, and the third in November.


26

Plate 1: Corps members taking part in a parade

Source: author‟s field study

Every Nigerian graduate both at home and abroad under the age of thirty is required

to participate in the orientation programme since it was designed to mark the

beginning of the corps members service year and to give the corps members a

better understanding of the objectives of the NYSC scheme and familiarize them

with collective responsibility. Each orientation period lasts for a period of three

weeks in an orientation camp. Corp members are made to participate in different

activities and also made to live a firmly regimental life style within the camp. Each

state in the federation has one camp dedicated to this purpose.

2.2 THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

In 1958, Kevin Lynch listed several means to achieve spatial flexibility. These

included zoning and concentration of structure at a few widely separated points,

leaving wide spans where future changes will not affect the fabric of the whole; use

of modular or lattice structures whose peripheral growth does not affect the

structure at the center; use of low-intensity buffer zone between spaces to allow

their programs to expand and contract without running over other uses; avoidance


27

of narrow adaptation of forms to specialized functions; over-supply of space to

provide generous room for future expansion of programs; use of temporary

structures; and a well-networked communication system, so that program and

interaction changes can be analyzed and accommodated efficiently. Shifting

Paradigms (2008)

Fig 4: The universal space concept

source : shifting paradigms

Architects have conceptually addressed the subject of flexibility in many ways.

Some examples are Gerrit Rietveld‘s Schroder House, Mies van der Rohe‘s

‗Universal space‘, Louis Kahn‘s ‗The Served and the Servant Spaces‘ (fig 5),

Carnegie Mellon University‘s ‗Intelligent Workplace‘ (fig 7), and Peter Eisenman‘s

‗Blurred Zone.‘ (fig 6) Shifting Paradigms (2008)


28

Fig 5: “The served and the servant spaces” space concept

Source: shifting paradigms

Fig 6: The „blurred zone‟ concept


For example, the S.R. Crown Hall embodies Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's concept

of universal space. Rather than designing narrowly for a specific purpose, Mies

sought to create a structure that could be adapted to different uses as needs changed

over time (fig 4). He realized this goal by moving all structural supports to the

building's exterior wall, thus creating a large clearspan structure with 120 x 220 x

18 feet of unencumbered interior space.


29

Fig 7: The Intelligent Workspace


Fig 8: Flexibo Housing

Source: Next Gen Building

In practice for instance, the sixty-eight one- and two-storey dwellings, designed by

Fællestegnestuen for Copenhagen‘s Public Housing Association (KAB), were

partially designed and often also partially built by the residents. Whilst the basic

frame of the building, which consists of prefabricated components of concrete and


30

laminated timber, cannot be altered (apart from adding smaller parts such as a

pergola), the interior is based on a modular wall system, which can be changed,

adjusted or reconfigured by a building‘s inhabitants. (see fig 8)

The construction system allows walls to be moved around very easily, so any

layout can be adapted to different needs and requirements at any point in time. A

study after 3 years of completion showed that various residents had changed the

position of doors, added additional rooms and altered room sizes. Hartany J. and Le

A. (2010)

2.2.1 Adaptable : Adaptable structures features repositionable partitions or are

changeable per user/occupant (Case Studies: Rietveld Schroeder House, Japanese

Housing. Fig 9).

Fig 9: Adaptable Options

Source: flexibility in architecture

2.2.2 Universal. What typifies a universally flexible building is its ease of

adaptation per use. These buildings are often characterized by open floor plans and

typology free design (case studies: S.R. Crown Hall, Eames house. Fig 10).

Fig 10. Universal Options

source : flexibility in architecture


31

2.3 CASE STUDIES

2.3.1 NYSC PERMANENT ORIENTATION CAMP, KUBWA VILLAGE

ABUJA. (CASE STUDY 1)

2.3.1.1 Background Information:

The camp ground now termed permanent has existed as a secondary school-cum-

settlement ground for the displaced Gbagyi (Gwari) people before it was converted

as the NYSC secretariat, little about the old buildings can still be seen at the site

because of the total re-construction process that took place on the camp.

Fig 11: Showing part of NYSC camp Kubwa Village

Source: Dev. Control Department, FCT


32

According to field studies, the orientation camp is used for more than one activity

meaning that it is multifunctional in nature. The camp is also used for temporary

ground for the Citizenship and Leadership Training Center (CLTL) a.k.a. man o‘

war, sports and cultural festivals camping ground and other activities.

Fig 12. Schematic site plan of NYSC camp, Kubwa Village FCT

Source: author‟s sketches


33

2.3.1.2 Site Location/Description

The orientation camp is located along Gada Nasko road, Kubwa village, a satellite

town in Bwari Area Council, Abuja the federal capital territory (fig 11).

2.3.1.3 Site Layouts

From the nature of the structures, the site layout and the zoning pattern, it indicates

that the camp is a modern one because it employs the rudiments of an orientation

camp, and possesses the features of an ideal camp (fig 12). Landscaping is poor as

can be seen from observations that little or no attention was paid to it.

Plate 2a and 2b: Showing a billboard displaying the camp directory (left) and parade ground

(right)


2.3.1.4 Adaptability of spaces

The man o‘ war courses are adapted for use for some fitness courses outside the

NYSC orientation programme. Some parts of the man o‘ war facilities are

dismantled and put up when necessary. The hostels are adapted for different

accommodation needs. The open space design of the multipurpose hall allows for

flexibility when the purpose changes but the issues of acoustics and efficiency are

not addressed (fig 13).


34

From observations, the multipurpose hall is used for purposes ranging from theatre

activities to lectures. This issue of acoustics is a problem in the sense that no

attention is paid to it to suit the different uses.

Fig 13. Sketch plan of the multipurpose hall


Plate 3a and 3b: Showing the auditorium/multipurpose hall (left) and its interior spaces (right)



35

Plate 4a and 4b. Showing the chapel (left) and the mosque (right)


Plate 5a and 5b. Showing the Male Hostels (left) and female hostels (right)


Plate 6a and 6b. Showing water storage tank (left) and volleyball court facilities (right)



36

Plate 7a and a7b. Showing service entrance gate (left) and public conveniences (right)


Plate 8a and 8b: Showing cabins for military personnel and camp clinic (left) and Nigeria

Breweries stand “mammy” market (right)


2.3.1.5 Design Nature

Most of the buildings are rectangular in shape and there are no storey buildings, the

camp has two main access entrances (fig 12), the first is centralized linking the

main access road which cuts across the camp, while the second entrance leads to

the staff quarters connecting main access through the administrative building, camp

clinic, secretariat and the mosque, the kitchen and store etc. the mammy-market

which seems to be the busiest and the most noisy part is located close to the hostels,

parade ground, and the football pitch, the mosque is located in a relatively quiet


37

area close to the staff quarters and camp clinic, while the chapel is located close to

the hostels. However the camp also lacks facilities for disabled corp members.

Plate 9a and 9b. Showing the former NYSC secretariat (left) and the dilapidated dining hall

and cabins (right)


2.3.1.6 Materials of Construction

The materials of construction are mainly sancrete blocks with corrugated long span

aluminum roofing sheet with aluminum sliding windows apart from some hostel

and other accommodation facilities with glass louver windows.

2.3.1.7 Facilities Available

These are educational, social, recreational, religious, administrative, residential,

medical, social, and waste disposal.

2.3.1.7 Appraisal

a. Educational: the multipurpose hall is small compared to the population of

the corp members (plate 3a and 3b)

b. Social Centres: the mammy-market is well situated and has adequate space.

(plate 8b)


38

c. Recreational Areas: this located at the centre of the camp and has enough

space to contain the football pitch, which is also used as the parade ground

and also extra spaces for volleyball. (plate 6b)

d. Religious: the location of the mosque is relatively quiet comparing to the

chapel which in the midst of the hostels and close to the mammy-market

which is a noisy area. (plate 4a and 4b)

e. Administration: there is a well defined administrative office and secretariat

f. Residential: there is sufficient accommodation for both staff and corps

members although with the increase in the population of corps members its

accommodation has exceeded the number of hostel accommodation.

g. Medical: the camp clinic is adequate (plate 8a).

h. Services: the water and electricity supply is inadequate

i. Waste disposal: there should have been an incinerator.

j. Fuel dump and maintenance: no longer functional

Generally, the NYSC permanent orientation camp Kubwa village can be rated

as one of the best compared to other orientation camps in the country because

of its recent construction and modern construction materials


39

2.3.2 NYSC ORIENTATION CAMP AWGU, ENUGU, ENUGU STATE.

(CASE STUDY 2)

2.3.2.1 ARCHITECT: Not known. Handled by public works Department (PWD)

2.3.2.2 LOCATION: The camp is located on a hill top behind another higher hill

crest. It overviews the Awgu town and just behind the local government Area

secretariate, and the then Nigeria Army (NA) Quarters at Awgu. Ajah‘s thesis

report (1998). The site is measured about 700 sq m. the land found in Enugu sate

falls into a group of mountainous region which creates a series of high lands and

low lands. The camp falls into this vicinity of marginal terrain. The topography of

the site has great help in the zoning of certain amenities in and around the site. The

site is located just behind Awgu local government secretariat and is accessible from

the Enugu- Port Harcourt express way. Awgu lies north of the equator and between

6˚N and 7˚N.is located in the savannah region of Nigeria and has a high humidity.

It is moderately in temperature and high in rainfall as well.

2.3.2.3 BACKGROUND: Before the Nigerian civil war the camp was the site of

the cooperative college for the newly recruited eastern Nigerian civil servants, until

the outbreak of the war which was used as a military base by the Biafran military

(as narrated by Titus Agbala NYSC Chief inspector on camp Jan 2010). The aftermath of

the war led to its conversion to a community development training centre although

its operation is epileptic, until mid 70s (about 1976) when the site was chosen by

the Federal government as centre for the National Youth Service orientation Camp.

Only a few building have been added to the site. As a result of the conversion other

buildings were erected in other to meet the demand of the various activities taking

place.


40

2.3.2.4 OWNERSHIP: The property is owned by the NYSC authority a parastatal of

the Federal Government. Enugu State government shares in the ownership of the site

2.3.2.5 ACCESS: The camp is very accessible. It is about 3kms away from the Enugu

Port Harcourt Expressway and about l00m from the NA Quarters Awgu road.

2.3.2.5 FACILITIES: Available in the camp include a parade ground, staff housing for

camp keeper, a mini-hall, corpers hostel, general storage kitchen with a Refectory,

Mosque and an administrative block. It is serviced by one generating power plant though

there are four plant houses.

2.3.2.6 Site layout

Fig 14: showing site layout

Source; Author‟s sketches.


41

Since the site was not originally designed as an orientation camp, it has no distinct

zoning pattern. It is accessed through a driveway joining the Enugu- Port Harcourt

expressway to Awgu.

Plate 10: showing an aerial view of the camp

Source: Okeke N.O. “ NYSC permanent orientation camp Awgu Enugu state.

M Sc thesis report, Dept of Architecture, UNEC. Nov, 1999.

2.3.2.7 The nature of the design

Most of the buildings are of rectangular shapes thus, allowing for high degree of

flexibility. They are mostly open halls, made simple and can easily be partitioned

into any desired compartments. However, the structures seem to have been put

whenever the need arose and wherever the spaces seem available; hence we find

staff quarters, for instance, scattered all over the site.

The Awgu NYSC camp does not look as if it has been consciously planned by a

planner/designer. However, some element of planning and design can be figured

out. There are two entrances into the site almost along the same axis.


42

On approach one meets the CDTC Admin block and could see the NYSC admin

block a few meters away. Just behind the administration is the ss3 & ss4 Quarters

for camp commanders. One can see from the entrance the open mosque (a structure

permanently built as a kitchen). The multi-purpose hall with a capacity of about

120 seated is at the rear. A service road separates the NYSC public area from the

hostels. There are nine (9) hostel blocks. In the hostel design, conveniences were

separated from the bedrooms at bath extremes. The hostel has double banked rooms

of 3.6 x 6m, each containing 6 double bunk beds. There are 24 rooms to each block.

The risers leading into the hostels are as high as 175mm – 230mm. (fig 15)

One fascinating facility in the site is the kitchen and the ss3 & ss4 quarters with

their colonial architecture. The general kitchens have a semi-circular roofing over a

975mm high wall with windows of 1.2m high protruding from the barrel vaulted

roofs. An unusual (hacked inverted 'V'- like) structure whose function I could not

ascertain, defines a central axis. The kitchen then adjoins the refectory near its toilet

area. Generally the buildings were properly oriented in the E-W axis. A ―mammy‖

market outside the camp gate services the camp and nearby quarters.

Fig 15: Sketch plan of the hostel



43

Plate 11a and 11b: Showing female hostels (left) and interior of female hostels (right)


Plate 12a and 12b. Showing the man O war bay (left) and the parade ground (right)


Plate 13a and 13b. Showing the dining/refectory (left) and the food store (right)


2.3.2.8 Materials for construction

Simple and readily available materials have been chosen for the construction,

following the simple nature of the design. These are outlined below:


44

i. Wall: sand Crete blocks were used.

ii. Wall finish: light colour emulsion paints are used.

iii. Roof: corrugated cement asbestos roofing sheets were used.

iv. Ceiling: asbestos ceiling were used.

v. Floor: cement and sand screeds were used.

2.3.2.9 Facilities Available

Facilities available as shown on the aerial picture and include the following:

educational, social, physical training, medical, religious, residential, services, waste

disposal, and administration.

Plate 14a and 14b. showing the multipurpose hall (left) and mammy-market (right)


Plate 15a and 15b . Showing the camp clinic (left) and the kits store (right)



45

2.3.2.10 Appraisal

This section of research over looks into the adequacy or otherwise of spaces

provided for various activities on camp. The size of spaces, their appropriateness,

location, climatic factors and other factors relative to their individual functions

shall be the criteria for judgment.

On a general note, the site fulfils better its initial purpose of a C.D.T.C.

(Development Centre). It has however been adopted well for purposes of its current

service as a youth camp. Its "decay" is however its greatest undoing.

a. Educational; the multipurpose hall is small compared with the population of

the corp members. During lecture sessions, corp members are usually seen

hanging outside the hall looking for space. ( plate 14a)

b. Administration; there is no clearly defined administrative building or even

zone for camps. Few offices are provided and are scattered in several

buildings. Thus, most principal officers of the camp have no offices and so,

use their residential quarters as offices as well.

c. Parade Ground; the parade ground is adequately sized. But its location

outside the campground creates some security problems with checking the

movement of corp members. It also lacks a podium i.e. civic stand for

ceremonial functions. (plate 12b)

d. The Man O War Bay; the space for the bay is adequate. (plate 12a)

e. Socialization Sports; the mammy-market is well situated for its purpose,

looks natural and has inadequate space.

f. Camp Clinic; the camp clinic serves adequately but lacks a purpose-

designed restroom.


46

g. Residence; hostels are congested and grossly inadequate. Seeking for more

privacy, dormitory halls have been partitioned into cubicles thus, they

become too stuffy. In some of the hostels were the halls are partitioned into

rooms for double bunk beds, double bunking design is resorted with long

narrow corridors, thus making the rooms inadequately ventilated. Residential

quarters for the camp thereby not having a clearly defined staff quarters.

h. Other Facilities; the gymnasium is adequately sized. The OBS is

inadequately sized to contain the information and four corp members

attached to him. Sports facilities are not enough. The parade ground serves

for everything and this is poorly inadequate on camp.

2.2.2.11 MERITS:

The location of the site is good.

The provision of support electrical source is also commendable.

The orientation is indeed good.

Generally the colonial architecture expressed with pitched roofs and no flat

roofs is adequate.

The presence of housing facilities for staff on site promotes efficiency, and

security as well as life on site.

With its limited facility, the circulation pattern is good with vehicular routes

removed from the residential areas.

Flexibility in use of spaces is appreciable.

2.3.2.12 DEMERITS

The design of the added structures, the hostels, leaves much to be demanded. There is

no cross ventilation, no wardrobes or youth storage facilities. The double banked


47

facility with toilets at both ends separated by a courtyard could be highly

inconveniencing.

The landscaping is poor.

Facilities for recreation are highly limited and unplanned.

The organised nature and the absurd look of the make shift facilities at the

"mammy" market is an eye sore.

To play football and some other games facilities one has to go outside the

camp. This is bad.

The site terrain was not properly utilized in the design of individual structures.

2.3.3 NYSC ORIENTATION CAMP, NONWA-GBAM, RIVERS STATE.

CASE STUDY (3)

2.3.3.1 BRIEF BACKGROUND

Initially the NYSC orientation camp was sited at the college of education Ndele

campus, but was later moved to the present site at Nonwa-Gbam in 2000. The

community secondary school Nonwa-Gbam is the present site of the orientation

programme in Rivers State, it serves as both secondary school and orientation camp.

During orientation, the school is usually vacated to give way for the programme before

resuming after the orientation programme but the adaptability of these spaces cannot

be guaranteed

2.3.3.2 Site Location/ Description

The site is located along Bori road, in Tai local government area of Ogoni land

about 82km from Port-Harcourt the state capital. The site is a flat land and is in

the outskirt of the community with a distance of less than a kilometer.


48

2.3.3.3 Site Layout

As a normal secondary school, it comprises administrative offices, classrooms,

hostels, staff quarters, a field, a podium and a man O war bay. Although it

wasn‘t designed as an orientation camp, but it has a partial zoning pattern. It is

usually accessed through the entrance gate along the Bori express way.

Fig 16: Showing a schematic site layout

Source: Erimasi B.

2.3.3.4 Nature of the Design

The structures are simple individual structures. the hostels are merely portioned

into rectangular forms. The site arrangement is like a normal secondary school

with the inclusion of NYSC facilities like man O war bay and a podium for

parade and other occasions.


49

2.3.3.5 Materials for Construction

The buildings are constructed with simple materials of sancrete block walls

with simple corrugated roofing sheet (although old fashioned), the windows are

made of louvers similar to that of NYSC Camp, Awgu.

2.3.3.6 Appraisal

The criteria for judgment are sizes, appropriateness, location, climate and other

design factors of the spaces provided for the various activities on camp;

a. Administration: the administrative zone is clearly demarcated as an area, which

would have been termed administrative zone; it is where all registration and

other procedures take place.

Plate 16a and 16b: showing a multipurpose hall (left) and classrooms


b. Educational: due consideration is given to the provision of formal spaces for

educational purposes. Thus lectures and symposia are held in the multipurpose

hall and classrooms. (plate 16a and 16b)

c. Parade ground: the football field also serves as the parade ground, it is located near

the entrance to the camp, considering the degree of importance of the every morning


50

parade aspect of the orientation camp. However, the parade ground is reasonably

large and adequate for the camp.

d. The Man O War Bay: the bay is large enough but would have been made reasonably

near the parade ground since they are related in function).(plate 17b)

e. Residence: hostels are made of open bunks . This situation offers less privacy than the

cubicle dormitory. The staff residence is clearly designed and the individual buildings

are adequate.

Plate 17a and 17b. Showing corpers hostels (left) and man o‟ war bay (right)


f. Socialization centre: the mammy-market is sizable but its location at the

entrance of the site within the administrative zone makes it grossly unsuitable.

g. Other facilities: the zoning was fairly good but not properly done as it is meant

to be if it were to designed for an orientation camp. The positions of the various

activity zones relative to the entire architectural need of the camp were also not

adequately considered and how ever the camp lacks the basic facilities for

disabled corp members.


51

In terms of refuse management a better means of refuse disposal like the

provision of an incinerator should have been provided instead of mere disposal

into the surrounding bush.

2.4 CASE STUDY OF ADAPTABLE SPACES

The idea behind the case studies in this section is to study cases where spaces

were planned to be flexible enough for other purposes. One important

observation to be made here is the methods and principles adopted to achieve

adaptable spaces. The arrangement and placement of furniture plays a key role.

2.4.1 THE CASINO DE PARIS, FRANCE (case study 4)

2.4.1.2 ARCHITECT: Duc de Richelieu (1730)

Fig 17: Google image of the location and road map to Casino de Paris.

Source: google maps 2010

2.4.1.3 LOCATION: 16, Rue de Clichy, Paris, France.

2.4.1.3 BRIEF BACKGROUND

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_Fran%C3%A7ois_Armand_du_Plessis,_duc_de_Richelieu


52

Casino de Paris is a music hall of Paris and in 1880, it became the Palace

theatre. In 2004, Cle Millet, an architectural practice proposed a system that

would make it easy to clear the theatre seating in a few minutes to leave an

open hall for a concert (www.casinodeparis.fr).

Plate 18a and 18b: Entrance (left) and Casino de Paris used as a theatre.

Source: Figueras (2009)

Plate 19a and 19b: Casino de Paris as a concert hall (left) and Casino de Paris used for

formal dining (right)



53

2.4.2 MARIE JUJURIEUX, FRANCE (CASE STUDY 5)

The multipurpose assembly hall Marie Jujurieux is a located in a small locality

of Ain, Rhone-Alpes, France. Coordinates 46° 2' 0" North, 5° 25' 0" East

Plate 20a and 20b: Marie Jujurieux as an assembly hall


Jujurieux is a commune in the French region of Rhône-Alpes in the Ain

department. As in many localities with small populations, the local council‘s

ability to provide a variety of facilities for different types of events is limited. So

when the municipal council decided to renovate its assembly hall, the goal was to

come up with a solution that would enable them to make the most of a single

space.

The project guidelines called for a seating system that would allow the hall to be

cleared automatically in just a few minutes. To meet this requirement Figueras

installed the Mutamut System, which makes it easy to convert an assembly hall

equipped with movable seating into an open space that can be used to hold events

of all types, including banquets, dances and ceremonies of any kind.


54

This new system changes the concept of public space by addressing the rising

price of land and the need to design multipurpose halls. The Mutamut System

makes it possible to easily and effectively convert a conference seating area into

an open space for staging an exhibition with a minimum amount of work. The

need for any additional storage space is eliminated since seating is kept under the

stage when not in use. Seats move along floor rails to be stored under the stage,

(see fig 18, 19 and 20) a system that makes changing the configuration of the hall

a simple matter as seen in the illustrations below.(Figueras, 2009).

Plate 21: Marie Jujurieux


Fig 18: Marie Jujurieux section



55





Plate 22a and 22b: Jujurieux as an assembly hall (left) and as a community gathering for the

elderly (right)



56

2.4.3 BUNYONYI COMMUNITY SCHOOL (CASE STUDY 6)

2.4.3.1 Location

Bunyonyi Community School, Kabale, Uganda. Cordinates: 1° 9' 36" N, 29° 33'

36" E

Fig 21: Google earth road map for Kabale.

Source: google maps

2.4.3.2 Background

The ―Lake Bunyonyi Christian Community Vocational Secondary School‖

(Bunyonyi Community School for short) is currently a 240 pupil secondary

school, with additional vocational training courses. It was set up in 2006 due to

high demand in the local area, and is located on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi in

the far south west corner of Uganda, close to Rwanda.


57

The school occupies a steep, terraced site above the lake, served by a dirt road at

the bottom. One year ago (with 140 pupils) it consisted of:

one main classroom block with 3 classrooms and staff office;

3 small dormitories (sleeping two to a bed, with triple bunks);

toilets;

a kitchen and

semi-enclosed dining area; a couple of temporary teaching areas.

2.4.3.3 A Multi-Use Space

The school needs more classrooms, particularly for vocational subjects, which

currently have to rent space elsewhere. However, it also wants an assembly,

dining and gathering space that can be used for community events and rented out

during holidays to provide income. To economise on space and resources, it is

proposed that a block of 3 classrooms can open up and combine into a larger,

multi-use space. The classrooms are angled round in plan and the outer walls open

onto a covered external space that they all face in towards, creating a natural

gathering space. (fig 22, 23 and 24) Acoustic problems with opening walls

between classrooms are also avoided. The site for the new building is towards the

bottom of the school, near the road, which gives the school a presence on the main

road and provides easy public access when necessary.


58

Fig 22: section of the multi-use space

Source: open architecture network

To address this issue, stagger levels within the classrooms so that they rise with

the slope and form different tiers was proposed. (fig 22). Less earth needs to be

cut away and moved, so the cut banks are smaller, safer and take up less of the site

(it is estimated the design moving 120 tonnes of earth by hand – see section).

Rather than straight tiers like a lecture hall, the changes of level take the form of a

cascade of staggered platforms that are sized to allow small groupings. The

platform arrangement allows more flexible use of the space and more flexible

teaching, whilst also instilling a degree of individuality and personal choice. The

vocational classes necessarily involve more diverse teaching, including role-

playing and already require some of this flexibility.


59

Fig 22. the multi-use space used as a regular classroom

Source: open architecture network

Fig 24. the multi-use space used as assembly, dining and public event layout

Source: open network architecture


60

Fig 25: the multi-use space used as group work space


2.4.4 HEARTWOOD CONFERENCE CENTER, AND CAMP RETREAT,

TREGO, WISCONSIN (CASE STUDY 6)

2.4.4.1 Location: N10884 Hoinville Rd, Trego, WI 54888

2.4.4.2 Architects: North meadows limited

2.4.4.3 Total sq ft.: 27,800 (2582.62m²)

2.4.4.4 Year built: 2000 Year renovated: 2009


61

Fig 26: Road and site map of Heartwood showing trails and facilities.

Source: Heartwood Center and Camp Retreat (2010)

2.4.4.5 About Heartwood

Located in Trego, Wisconsin, Heartwood Conference Center and Camp retreat is

approximately 120 miles (193.12km) Northeast of Minneapolis. The 700-acre

property features two private lakes and frontage on the Namekagon River, a

national scenic waterway. Lutherans online.com (2010).It is nestled in the

breathtaking scenery of Wisconsin‘s Northwoods located on 700 acres of natural


62

woodlands surrounding two private lakes and the nationally protected Namekagon

River. Calhotel.us (2009)

According to Lutherans online.com, Heartwood was purchased in October 2005 by

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans to carry out and complement the organization's

mission, demonstrating its core values in a unique way. Heartwood provides an

experience of togetherness, learning, celebration and overall wellness for the

benefit of Thrivent Financial members, Campers, the Lutheran community and

nonprofit organizations in the Twin Cities and Fox Cities.

Fig 27: part of site map showing maintenance sections and conference center


Heartwood features two large, central lodge facilities for group food service and

meeting space with free high-speed DSL and wireless Internet connectivity. All of

the buildings were built after 2000 except for the cottages, which have been

renovated recently. The natural setting is perfect for corporate and church meetings

and retreats, camping, as well as family reunions, celebrations, weddings, personal


63

vacations and more. Lutherans online.com (2010). Heartwood camp retreat also

offers bicycles, snowshoes, and cross-country ski equipment for rent for campers.

Fig 28: part of site map showing Lake Julia, sports courts, campfire rings etc.


2.4.4.6 Recreation

Heartwood offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities:

25 kilometers of scenic trails for hiking, trail-biking, cross-country

skiing.

Fishing and ice fishing.

Scenic river and lake canoeing or kayaking.

Tennis courts.

Field sports and basketball courts.

Sand volleyball.

camping


64

Horseshoes and bocce ball.

Ice skating and broomball rink.

Snow tubing.

Just minutes from golf courses, tourist attractions, snowmobile trails &

events.

Fig 29: eagle place lower level



65

Fig 30: eagle place upper level


Fig 31: white pine assembly/dining hall



66

2.4.4.7 Facilities:

a) The Davidson camp cabins

The Davidson Cabin, located in the woods in a serene environment, yet close to all

Heartland activities, is a two-bedroom, one bath, Alpine log cabin.

The camp cabin features a gas fireplace, spacious loft area, and kitchenette all in a

warm and cozy décor – the perfect environment for event leaders, guest speakers,

pastors, and families, to get away from the daily stresses of life. Heartland

Conference Retreat Centre. (2010)

Plate 23: showing the entrance of a cabin


b) Hickory lodge

The essence of the Hickory lodge is the atmosphere of fragrant woodlands captured

and brought indoors. A stone hearth fireplace reaches up to touch the vaulted

ceilings in the airy central meeting room, surrounded by an array of windows

which flood the room with natural light. A magnificent setting in which to host


67

meetings or retreat. Overnight accommodations are available for up to 72. Sleeping

areas are divided into four bunkhouse-style rooms, two in each wing, with adjacent

private motel-style rooms, each with private restroom/shower area.

Plate 24: Hickory lodge view


Four meeting rooms are available which can accommodate up to 35 people each.

A kitchen is available if you choose to prepare your own meals on site. The

central meeting area accommodates groups of up to 100, and makes a cozy setting

for a small banquet or larger group retreat.

Plate 25a and 25b: Showing a meeting place and central meeting room interiors



68

c) The Meadowview Park

Meadowview, a family-friendly RV park, is a great option for group camping.

Meadowview features 150 sites, 50 with full hook-up, and picnic tables available

for the convenience of campers. The facilities are clean and modern: bright,

roomy shower facilities, laundry room, playground, and picnic pavilion.

Plate 26a and 26: RVs parked at the Meadowview Park by campers


d) The Oakwood Center

Oakwood Center is the hub of activity at Heartland. The spacious atrium

welcomes guests and gives visitors direct access to restrooms, the auditorium,

vending and dining areas. Featuring modern audio, visual, and lighting

systems with a full-size stage, the auditorium offers seating for groups up to

900. Also ideal for larger banquet settings, and is equipped to convert to full

size indoor basketball and volleyball courts.

The dining hall comfortably seats up to 340. For private luncheons or small

groups, the dining hall offers areas that can be separated by partitions. The

food services are available whenever events are booked on the premises.


69

Plate 27a and 27b: Showing the entrance of the Oakwood Center (left) and the interior of

the dining at the Oakwood Center


e) The Dormitories

The three Dorm-style Lodges are each excellent places for a group meeting for

up to 75 people. Each dormitory provides meeting space and overnight

accommodations for up to 196. All three buildings can be used for larger

groups that will have breakout sessions in the lodges and large group meetings

in the Oakwood Center.

Plate 28: showing a dormitory and walkway paths around the building



70

The central common area makes a convenient gathering place for medium-

sized groups. For your convenience, a hospitality nook is located off each

lobby, offering a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee and tea service.

Plate 29a and 29b: showing bunks in the rooms (left) and other interior facilities (right)


Each Lakeview Lodge has 17 sleeping rooms sharing two bright, spacious

restroom & shower facilities. Linen service is available for an additional

charge

2.4.4.8 Appraisals

The Dormitories are conveniently located nearby, making access to the

Oakwood Center's amenities just a short walk away. Food service is

conveniently located next door at the Oakwood Center, and the other great

activities at Heartland are all within walking distance.

For private luncheons or small groups, the dining hall offers areas that can be

separated by partitions, thus making it adaptable

Construction: Wood Frame with Poured Foundation Walls


71

2.5 References

Ajah Moses Nnanna, 1998, ―Ibaim Youth Resort Camp Ebonyi Flexibility In Use

Of Spaces And Nature Integration In Architecture‖, Unpublished Thesis Report

Department Of Architecture, University Of Nigeria, Enugu Campus

Butin D. 2000. ―Multipurpose Spaces‖, National Clearinghouse for

Educational Facilities, 1090 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Suite 700, Washington,

D.C.

CABE, 2001, ―By Design: Better Places to Live-A Companion Guide to

PPG3‖, Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, 11 York

road, London. pp 67-75

CRS archives document, 1996, ―divisible auditoriums: a report from

educational facilities laboratories.‖ Educational Facilities Laboratories, 477

Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10022

Feingold j. ―the Fluid Workspace: Designing For The Way‖ Asid Icon The

Magazine Of The American Society Of Interior Designers, May/June 2008

Hartany Jessica, Le Angelina, 2010, ―NextGen Housing: On flexible spaces

and modularity. Pp 13

Kim. H. And Elnimeiri M, 2004, ―Space Efficiency In Multi-Use Tall

Building‖ Illinois School Of Technology

Kollie (2006), ―Moveable Walls Allow for Space Flexibility‖, the Peter Li

Education Group Publishers.

Michael Malofiy, 1998, ―Order and Flexibility: Their Coexistence as Architectural

Principle‖, unpublished thesis submitted to the faculty of the Virginia Polytechnic

Institute & State University

Miller H. 2009. ―Adaptable Spaces and Their Impact on Learning‖. Research

summary. Pp 3.

Mumford, 1996, ―schools without walls‖. Educational Facilities Laboratories,

477 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10022

Shifting Paradigms, ―Renovating the Decorated Shed: Functional Flexibility in

Architecture‖, May 15, 2008, archinect.com


72

Subsidiary Legislation: National Youth Service Corps Byelaws L.N. 34 1974

Arrangement of Sections, ―National Youth Service Corps Decree No. 51 1993 Act

Cap. N84 L.F.N. 2004‖

www.Calhotel.us (2009)

www.HeartwoodCenterandCampRetreat.com(2010)

www.Lutheransonline.com (2010).

CHAPTER THREE


72

3.0 GENERAL PLANNING PRINCIPLES AND DESIGN

CONSIDERATIONS

This chapter focuses on the considerations and the analyses of major architectural

and environmental problems involved in the design of an orientation camp as well

as the design principles for the design of adaptable spaces. One issue that should be

noted here is that the recommendations made after each analysis is not final since a

lot of changes will take place when the project design solutions are being

considered as a whole. The considerations are mentioned and analysed as it affects

the design of an NYSC orientation camp and the application of adaptability and

flexibility of spaces in such designs.

Fig 32. Illustrating different consideration parameters

Source: Google images


73

3.1 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Considerations for architectural and environmental problems are analysed under

these subheadings:

1. Security

2. Spaces of socialization

3. Housing

4. circulation

5. Environmental problems

6. sanitation

7. Fire safety

8. Lighting

9. Ventilation

3.1.1 SECURITY

According to Okeke‘s thesis report (1999), one major issue that could be solved

with architectural solutions is security. Apart from the fact that architectural

solutions could be suggested and applied, complete security can only be guaranteed

by surveillance on the part of the entire camp community as the main source of

security solution is from the police and camp officials.

As earlier mentioned, according to the report of a courtesy call/introduction of the

Earth Charter to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Plateau State

directorate (2009); the scheme starts with a 3 weeks orientation camp where

graduates are camped in an area where their movement is restricted. This suggests

a need to provide adequate security in the area of surveillance and monitoring.

Plate 30 shows where the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC)

displays fake corps members to journalists in Keffi having access to camp facilities


74

due to architectural lapses. There are many ways of treating such surveillance

issues to provide security but for the purpose of this study, the focus will be on the

architectural solutions to be analysed.

Plate 30: Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps marshalling corps members

Source: NSCDC Keffi Area office

These are basically three principal security interests on site which are;

a. Security of property.

b. Checks on the movement of corps members

c. Check on undue trespasses into the camp.

The possible applicable architectural solutions for these aforementioned security

issues are proffered thus:

a. Security of property:

The Hostel wardrobes are to be provided with locks to provide security for

property.

The entrance doors and other doors should not be made hidden so as to discourage

theft and burglary.


75

Car parks should be located in open areas and not hidden. Okeke‘s thesis report

(1999).

b. Checks of corps member‟s movement:

The camp should be properly fenced with gates to control movements.

Police posts should be situated at strategic positions to monitor activities of the

camp community.

c. Checking of trespasses:

The camp should be well lighted; especially at night.

There should be a major entrance/exit way and a minor escape way that should

always be locked, except during emergencies.

The camp should complete perimeter fencing to check undue trespassing.

Plate 31: Perimeter security


3.1.2 HOUSING

Housing means the provision of structures collectively in which people are housed.

www.princeton.edu (2010). The housing problem on camp is a multi-dimensional

http://www.princeton.edu/


76

problem as all categories of people on camp for the orientation programme must be

housed. Following this, certain essential factors remain common for housing all

categories of persons. These factors or common conditions have to be met for any

form to be fit for habitation.

Fig 33: Housing for all


3.1.2.1 Essential Factors for Habitable Accommodation

The American public housing association has identified four essential conditions

which shelter, called housing must satisfy before it is satisfied for a decent, safe

and habitable accommodation, these essential factors are as follows:

1. Fundamental physiology need; proper temperature, pure air, adequate natural and

artificial lighting.

2. Fundamental Psychological Needs; adequate privacy, opportunity for normal

family and community life, ease of house hold operations, cleanliness, aesthetics

and general satisfaction.

3. Protection Against Contagion; pure water supply toilet facilities, good sanitation,

good storage facilities, sufficient sleeping space


77

4. Protection Against Accident; sound / standard construction, fire protection,

protection against electrical defects and poisoning, injuries in houses, traffic

hazards.

Source: Eremasi‟s thesis report (2010).

Ideally, a home should mean satisfaction in terms of functionality of the building‘s

design and in use. Sophistication and gadgetry are not necessary to achieve a good

home. An ideal home must be designed with proper consideration for future

requirements such as more freedom at home, freedom to play records or watch

television at the same or different times and a camp should provide a home as such

for the users. What is wanted is a design for variety of activities quiet ones, noisy

ones and others. One can also add to the list that all forms of shelter habitation

should be taken into consideration and also their future needs, thus allowing for

changes in the needs of the users. This is where flexibility comes into play.

3.1.3 SPACES FOR SOCIALISATION/INTERACTION

These spaces intended here include the hostels, training grounds, mammy-market,

lecture halls, dining hall, etc Okeke‘s thesis report (1999). There is need to handle

these areas in the design very well to enhance interaction among corps members,

host community and NYSC officials (plate 32). It is paramount that the design

should architecturally promote and coordinate this interaction.


78

Plate 32: central arena designed for socialization


3.1.3.1 Hostels Rooms

In camp, the hostel is the average corps member‘s home. The hostels provide a

primary setting for the corps members to interact. Rooms should therefore be well

ventilated, oriented to capture good views, well furnished and not over crowded.

Instead of dormitories cubicles of five persons per room is recommended. Okeke‘s

thesis report (1999).

3.1.3.2 Training Grounds

These include the parade ground, man O war bay and other physical training

grounds. These training places should be provided with necessary facilities. For

those not participating in training, but made to be in the field, seats made of natural

materials like bamboo should be provided. Eremasi‘s thesis report (2010). This is

because case studies and reports suggests that corps members are required to be

present on ground during physical activities but not all are not obligated to take

part.


79

3.1.3.3 The Mammy-Market

According to Wiktionary, a multilingual encyclopedia, the ―mammy‖ market is

(chiefly in Nigeria) a market attached to a barracks where products for soldiers are

sold. The same has been adapted for similar purposes in NYSC orientation camps

across the country. The most interesting thing to corps members about the mammy-

market is that, it is the only place where they spend extra money to tend to their

satisfaction and so freely interact with both corps and non-corps members. The

mammy-market, though a temporal market should at least be provided with

cooking facilities, wash-ups and places for the installation of refrigerators. The

zoning should also be in such a way as not to interfere with regular orientation

activities.

Plate 33: Corpers socializing in a mammy market

Source: Author‟s field study

3.1.3.4 Lecture Halls

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/market

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/attach

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/barracks

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/soldiers


80

The camp is designated for orientation which suggests lectures take place. Lectures

on different topics like Entrepreneurship, Job search tips, Self employment,

National security, Road safety, Fire fighting, HIV/Aids, Environmental issues,

MDGs, NYSC aims, and so on are organised at the NYSC orientation camps for

corps members. www.nysc.org.ng (2010).

Plate 34: Corp members in Kubwa camp multipurpose hall during lectures


Lecture places like the classrooms and the multipurpose halls are used depending

on the camp (plate 34). These are the formal places and so should be designed with

large spaces and wide windows to soften the environment and promote mutual

interaction.

3.1.3.5 Hostel Courtyards and Lounges

These are other venues found to have much potential as social interaction spaces.

Such as table tennis, snookers, discussions etc takes place here. Concrete moulds

seats should also be provide at the courtyard and cushion for the lounges. The

courtyard should be well landscaped and may be created into units of space for

units for more privacy. Eremasi‘s thesis report (2010).

3.1.3.6 Trees and Pergolas


81

They provide the most natural setting for interaction. Usually, man is attracted to

shade of tree as a means of escape from the scorching sun, and for receiving fresh

air generated by trees. Informal seats could be provided. Thus trees could be

planted near the parade grounds, man O war bays and the mammy-market area.

Pergolas provide a less natural setting than trees.

Plate 35: Corp members socializing around trees

Source: author‟s field studies

Pergolas are therefore better constructed with natural materials, the beauty of the

interaction centres lie in the fact that they provide the users with a relaxed

atmosphere. Moreover, they become more effective when they are oriented to catch

more and good views. Eremasi‘s thesis report (2010).

3.1.4 CIRCULATION

An orientation camp is a very active place involving the movement of people at all

times of the day. Danfulani et. al. (2008). Normally, the NYSC officials are always

moving from their quarters to the office and to the dining hall and back to their

quarters. The man O‘ war instructors, from their quarters, to the man O‘ war bay, to

the dining hall and back to their quarters; the police similarly shuttle between their


82

hostel duty posts and the dinning. Eremasi‘s thesis report (2010). These simple

triangulated movement patterns will be discussed later requires serious planning.

Fig 34: Circulation


Circulation planning in multi-building projects such as camp development,

building groupings is an essential step in determining the form and layout of the

development, the phases for extension and economic feasibility- taking into

account the high proportion of costs involved in roads, paths, infrastructure and

landscaping works.

Circulation is in two forms:

(a) Internal circulation; corridors, lobbies and lounges. Corridors are wasted

space.

(b) External circulation; General movement around the site layout. Vehicular and

pedestrian paths, access to building units etc.


83

Fig 35 different circulation patterns

Source: illustrations by author

3.1.4.1 Circulation among Corpers

Circulation among corpers within the camp can be grouped into two headings;

1. The arrival movement pattern and


84

2. The daily movement pattern.

1. The Arrival Movement Pattern

This refers to the movement of corpers on their arrival day on camp. However, a

summary of this can be made as shown below.

Fig 36. Illustrates the arrival movement pattern of corp members


The movement pattern of arriving corps members has the following architectural

implications on the design of an orientation camp;

1. The administrative block where all registration and other procedure take place

should be located close to the entrance of the orientation camp.


85

2. The need for the NYSC store to be situated also in the administrative block.

Daily movement pattern

This refers to the corpers‘ daily movement pattern when s/he has settled in the

camp. Here, it shows that the hostel is the corper‘s station point. For participation

in various programmes of the orientation camp, the corper often has to take off

from the hostel to the venue for any given programme and often returns to the

hostel after the programme. Eremasi‘s thesis report (2010).

Fig 37: The daily movement pattern of corp members


The diagram below shows the movement pattern adopted by corp members. From

the above diagram, observation shows that the corpers usually move in pairs,

although occasionally they can be seen moving in either singles or groups. The

frequency of their movement depends on the type of activity they are going to

attend. The hostel-class movement is usually more than the hostel-mammy market


86

movement with one group trying to pass another group especially immediately

after a lecture, this gives way for the formation of larger crowd.

3.1.4.2 Architectural Implications of the Daily Movement Pattern

From the observations from on the movement pattern, the following deductions can

be made as follow,

1. The corpers hostel should be located near the activity zones to shorten the walking

distance between them and to ensure the quick dispersal of corp members from the

hostel to the activity zones.

2. The walk ways linking the hostels and the activity zones should be direct and

reasonably wide to take at least four persons walking side by side.

3. The surface of the walk ways should be hard and durable material to be able to

withstand the expected heavy traffic.

4. The walkway leading from the hostel to the mammy market demands landscape

elements that relaxes the senses and the possibility of having a meandering

walkway should be exploited.

3.1.4.3 Vehicular Traffic

This does not pose any serious problem as only few staff and official cars are

mostly seen. The provision of delivery bags for the mammy-markets and stores and

also the clear co-ordination/ separation of motor ways from walkways would be

able to solve vehicular traffic problems. In most orientation camps, service access

routes are provided to take care of services and at the same time, not interfering

with regular orientation activities.


87

Fig 38: dimensions for vehicle and turning radius

Source: architect‟s data (2002)

3.1.6 FIRE SAFETY

When designing a building with fire safety in mind, particularly ease of escape, it is

important not to forget the needs also for usability and security. If the fire measures

are seen to be too many, they will be easily opened and their purpose will be

compromised. Fire escape doors are often weak points when it comes to undue

movements, particularly in public places.


88

Fig 39: Showing a fire extinguisher

Source; Google Images

In any fire outbreak, three elements must be at work i.e. combustible substances

(fuel), oxygen and heat. Absence of any of these means no fire. So that is the first

safety measure to be taken. Fire safety is thus discussed under the following

headings:

a. Causes Of Fire

Major causes of fire in buildings include:

i. Faulty electrical installations and apparatus

ii. Malicious or international ignition

iii. Materials like matches and cigarettes

b. Fire Prevention Measures

i. Fire resistant and non-combustible materials should be used in construction.

ii. There should be immediate repair of faulty electrical appliances whenever

discovered.

iii. Ashtrays and other fire extinguishers should be provided at strategic positions


89

Fig 40: graphic representation of a camp building outlining fire preventive measures

Source: Laurentian North Fire Fighting Water Supply Association

c. Fire Fighting Measures:

i. Materials building construction should have at least one hour fire resistant

capacity.

ii. Escape routes should always be provided in design

iii. Access shall be provided for fire fighting vehicles

iv. Fire hose can be installed at strategic positions in the kitchen,

administration buildings, hostels,‖ mammy‖market.

3.1.5 ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS

These are mainly problems of sanitation as it concerns toilets, sewage disposal, solid

waste management, and site drainage. These problems are mostly seen to occur at the

hostels, residential areas, kitchen, mammy-market and the training grounds.


90

a. The Water Closet And Bathroom Design:

The toilets are not well handled even from the design to management such problems as

offensive odour, poor drainage and eventual blockage occur. These factors as listed

below could be employed to enhance the usage and performance of the toilets:

1. The toilets should be flushed just after use

2. Toilets should be well located considering the bedrooms and well ventilated.

3. Toilet doors should open into the toilets to push air out through the windows.

4. For the provision of facilities, the following standards are followed:

- One WC and one urinary for 8 to 10 corps members

- One shower for 8 to 10 male corps members

- One wash basin for 8 to 10 male corps members

- One WC for 6 to 8 female corps members

5. For instance, design should ensure that all drainage channels are reachable and are to

size, damages should always be repaired.

Fig 41: waste disposal bin

Source: indiamart.com

b. Sewage Disposal: A central sewage system is recommended on camp instead of

having pockets of septic tanks and soak ways always everywhere.


91

c. Solid Waste Disposal: Dustbins, litter boxes and buckets are provided at different

positions and people are informed on the usage (fig 41). At interval, these would be

emptied into the incinerator for burning.

d. Site drainage: there should be proper drainage channels to take away flood and

liquid waste from the kitchen and bathrooms. These channels consist of gutters,

pipes, culverts. The gutters should be covered and designed to integrate with the

landscape. These cover lids should be open able for maintenance purposes.

3.1.7 LIGHTING

Plate 36: shows a well day-lit interior space

Source; localfitness.com

According to Wikipedia definitions, lighting or illumination is the deliberate

application of light to achieve some aesthetic or practical effect. Lighting includes

use of both artificial light sources such as lamps and natural illumination of

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Light

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Light_source


92

interiors from daylight. The major concern here is how light, especially natural

light is extended to the interiors. This will be analysed under the following

headings;

a. Areas Of Critical Light Needs:

The kitchen requires plenty of daylight for cooking, preparation and washing areas.

The servery or dining area also requires enough light. The stores may be lighted

artificially though windows still be provided.

- Offices require light for reading and writing

- Rooms require enough daylight for the interiors. Glare is likely a problem if not

handled properly.

- Auditoriums also require lots of day lighting.

b. Daylight For The Interiors

Fig 42: illustrates day lighting through lateral and north light

Source; Author‟s Sketches

The amount of light received in building is called daylight factor. The value of this

factor depends on a variety of factors; the sky condition, the size, shape and

position of the windows, the effect of any obstructions outside the window and the

reflectivity of internal and external surfaces. In the tropics, day lighting is used in

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daylight


93

lighting the interiors the interiors comes from the sun. The quality and intensity of

this also varies with the latitude, season, time of day and local weather conditions-

the nature of cloud cover.

Fig 43: illustrates methods of illumination (top (sky) lighting)

Source; Okeke N. O.


94

Fig44: illustrates lighting techniques

Source; Okeke N. O.


95

Figure 45: illustrates natural daylight: various types of roof light with their daylight

distribution pattern

Source; Okeke N.O.

There are three ways of bringing daylight into the interiors, these are:

i. Top lighting(roof/sky light)

ii. Lateral lighting(window) and

iii. Total glazing using curtain wall

Lateral lighting would be adequate for all the requirements unless the building

design requires otherwise. This involves the use of either high or normal level

windows. It is also cheaper to provide than top lighting or total glazing. In using

lateral light, the following factors have to be considered.

i. Incident angles of penetrating light rays should be controlled so that light admitted

into the interiors does not cause glare.


96

ii. The size of the opening should not unnecessarily large so that is not over

illuminated thereby causing glare.

3.1.8 VENTILATION

Ventilation is the intentional movement of air from outside a building to the

inside. Ventilation air, as defined in ASHRAE Standard 62.1 and the ASHRAE

Handbook, is that air used for providing acceptable indoor air quality. Analysis of

ventilation here is focused on the exploitation of local wind condition on the site to

achieve sufficient airflow within the interior and exterior spaces of the building on

camp. There are three basic ways of harnessing the natural wind for the benefit of

the interior spaces. These are through orientation, vegetation and fenestration.

It can be achieved with openable windows or trickle vents when the spaces to

ventilate are small and the architecture permits. In more complex systems warm air

in the building can be allowed to rise and flow out upper openings to the outside

(stack effect) thus forcing cool outside air to be drawn into the building naturally

through openings in the lower areas.

Fig 46: illustrates orientations and its effects on ventilation

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ASHRAE

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ASHRAE_Handbook



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indoor_air_quality

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trickle_vents

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stack_effect


97

Source; Google Images

Fig 47: illustrates cross ventilation

Source; natural ventilation systems

Fig 48a and 48b: illustrates pressure from wind aiding natural ventilation (left) and alignment

of partitions to reduce resistance for cross ventilation (right)


According to walker (2010), natural ventilation systems rely on pressure

differences to move fresh air through buildings. Pressure differences can be caused

by wind or the buoyancy effect created by temperature differences or differences in

humidity.


98

Fig 49a and 49b: illustrates stack ventilation (notice the height difference between the

openings) left and right


In either case, the amount of ventilation will depend critically on the size and

placement of openings in the building. It is useful to think of a natural ventilation

system as a circuit, with equal consideration given to supply and exhaust. Openings

between rooms such as transom windows, louvers, grills, or open plans are

techniques to complete the airflow circuit through a building.

Fig 50: illustrates natural ventilation through use of courtyards and cross ventilation in a

residential block

Source; www.archdaily .com

These systems use very little energy but care must be taken to ensure the occupants'

comfort. In warm or humid months, in many climates, maintaining thermal

comfort solely via natural ventilation may not be possible so conventional air

conditioning systems are used as backups. Air-side economizers perform the same

function as natural ventilation, but use mechanical systems' fans, ducts, dampers,

and control systems to introduce and distribute cool outdoor air when appropriate.

http://www.archdaily/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermal_comfort



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_conditioning



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economizer


99

3.1.9 VEGETATION

Trees and vegetation have been found to be effective in alleviate discomfort

associated with extreme temperature and heating effect in urbanized areas. Vegetation

on site can be used to condition the air that enters a building (fig 51). It can also be

used to redirect the air passing across a building. Thus, trees can help moderate the

spread with which the wind enters the building interior. Trees also break the velocity

of the wind that would otherwise have to the interior condition. Without shading, the

average ground temperature in West Africa remains higher than the maximum air

temperature of the surrounding rural areas. The temperature of an unshaded pavement

can easily be 43 ºC on a day when the air temperature is 34 ºC. Michael (2010). For

this reason the treatment of the ground surface is very important.

Fig 51: vegetation and architecture

Source; technology module 3:natural cooling and ventilation


100

More shaded grass must replace concrete pavement to reduce ground surface heat.

Strategic location a building beneath mature tree canopies provides the required

shade at the right times of the day. Planting dense shade trees on the east side of a

building reduces morning and midday inside temperature and provides a reduction

of a 55 % of the cooling energy bill. Trees on the west reduce inside temperature

by 6.5 ºC during late afternoon and early morning hours. A monetary savings of

$70 to $100 per year in air conditioning was gained by home owners who planted

trees around their mobile homes on Alabama. Michael (2010)

Vegetation will delay afternoon solar heating of structures, thereby reducing energy

demands during peak demand periods. It has been shown that the shading of a

building by tall vegetation, for example palm trees can drastically reduce and, in

some cases, eliminate the need for supplementary cooling of structures during

warmer seasons.

Fig 52: trees used as shading device

Source; www.energysvers.gov

The positioning of vegetation relative to the structure to be protected is of critical

importance in terms of energy conservation. Shading roofs with tree canopies has


101

also been found to be very effective. The percentage of roof shade does not need to

be 100% for the best result. Michael (2010). The most effective positions are trees

on all sides overhanging the house to shade the roof, because the sun is at its

highest altitude angle in the sky and overhead most of the day in West Africa.

Planting tall palm trees and other evergreens to cover the roof is a good strategy,

and in some cases, makes installation of air conditioners unnecessary. Michael

(2010) The south, north and west sides of the build should be covered with shade

trees for optimum human thermal comfort and building space conditioning.

There is also the need for the presence of trees and other vegetation on camp site

for man o‘ war purposes.

3.1.10 ORIENTATION

Fig 53. illustrates WE orientation

Source; author‟s sketches

Orientation is the way the building would be located on site so that majority of the

windows face the prevailing wind direction on site. In Nigeria, the prevailing wind


102

direction is NE/SW direction. Thus, building oriented WE will reasonably capture

the prevailing wind, while those in the NW/SE direction would maximally make

use of the prevailing wind, other factors which include the direction of the sun‘s

movement, noise source and intensity, also come into play, these factors should

also be taken into good consideration.

Fig 54. Illustrates NE orientation


Fig 55. Illustrates NW orientation



103

3.3 PLANNING PRINCIPLES FOR CAMPS

Rather than planning a camp by placing a series of physical structures onto an

empty plane, the planner should start to think of the camp as a hierarchy of

different interlocking spaces which the built structures in part help to form. Some

of these spaces will be absolutely private, and some of them absolutely public and

many will contain a combination of the two. Kennedy (1994). Case studies of

camps facilities also buttresses this fact.

Although some of the spaces will indeed continue to be defined by the buildings

that they contain, there will be many other spaces which will be empty at the outset

in order to be filled subsequently by the refugees and their own needs for

livelihoods and social interaction. There should not be extreme adjacent contrasts

of private and public, or large and small, and there should always be some

intermediary space between the two. With some sort of transitional space or spaces

between the larger non-residential buildings and the closest residential

communities, there will be more privacy and greater security for adjoining

residential areas. Kennedy (1994) Outlying communities will include smaller,

neighbourhood public spaces. Residents will have a greater say in their uses and

form and therefore a greater commitment to them – and to the camp as a whole.

3.3.1 Specific requirements

Toilet and bathhouse facilities:

a. Central toilets and bathhouses containing water closets, Lavatories, and showers

must be within 500 feet of sleeping areas.

b. The ratio of water closets, lavatories, and shower to campers shall be installed

according to the number required


104

c. Water closets can be substituted for urinals when both sexes may use facilities.

The construction plans must show:

a. Detailed drawings of sewage disposal facilities including written specifications

of sewage plant

Disposal facilities;

b. Detailed drawing of water supply if the source is other than public; and

c. The location and size of water and sewer lines within the camp.

3.3.2 Spacing between Bunks and Head-to-Toe Sleeping

1. Leaders should provide at least 3 feet between bunks.

2. Alternate head and foot positions on adjacent bunks to increase a person‘s

breathing zone (head-to-toe sleeping).

3. Maximize available space in the bay or tent (see Arrangement 2 below).

4. A staggered bunk arrangement provides a greater distance between bunks

without reducing the total number of bunks in the same area as if the bunks were

all aligned.

5. Do not crowd bunks (or personnel) in one area while leaving large open spaces

in other areas.

6. If dormitories are not at full capacity, tear down excess bunks or place trainees in

every other bunk to further increase distance between occupants.

Two arrangements are depicted below. ―Arrangement 1‖ is commonly seen at

recruit training installations but does not maximize available floor space. A

staggered bunk/cot arrangement, as depicted in ―Arrangement 2‖, maximizes

available floor space and the distance between bunk/cots while still maintaining

egress routes.


105

Fig 56. illustrating bunk arrangements to reduce disease spread

Source: US Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine, Health Information

http://chppm-www.apgea.army.mil

In the staggered bunk arrangement, (Arrangement 2) the center area is reduced.

This area is easily re-established by sliding the inner bunks back in line with the

outer bunks during the day and back to maximize sleeping space in the evening.

Respiratory disease is usually spread when an infected person expels droplets onto

another person. Cough etiquette, isolation of sick individuals and space between

bunks are all important preventive measures to prevent the spread of infectious

diseases.


106

3.4 PLANNING PRINCIPLES FOR ADAPTABLE SPACES

According to Butin (2000), on the principles of Flexibility and adaptability, the

multipurpose space should be able to handle a wide range of functions. As noted, it

should be designed with, several lighting systems, have acoustically treated walls

and ceilings, and be technologically integrated and easily maintained. A good

multipurpose space should be able to satisfy the needs of its assigned functions

whether they are multimedia presentations, stage and musical productions, physical

education, or dining services at reasonably high levels of performance.

A building should be structurally flexible enough to adapt to changes such as

children "leaving the nest," elderly relatives moving in, or the need for home office

space. Freidman (2002). According to same book, The Adaptable House written by

an internationally recognized flexible housing advocate, there are specific design

approaches and techniques that facilitate flexible design, both on the inside and

outside, making it simple to alter a dwelling layout, demolish partitions or build

new ones, upgrade heating systems, change the locations of stairs, etc.

Design for adaptability begins with a systematic approach and evaluation of aspects

related to the building‘s interior and the relationship between a single unit and

other buildings serving required purposes. Freidman (2002)

3.4.1 Forms of adaptability

According to Freidman (2002); Strategies for the adaptability of homes can be

integrated into the design before construction begins. They can take several forms,

each with its own unique characteristics, opportunities and constraints. Forms of

adaptability depend on many factors, among them the type of home, the method of

construction and the procedure used to make the changes. Achieving adaptability

could be the result of changing the character of an entire building or simply a


107

component of it. Four main areas of intervention have been identified as critical to

achieving adaptability in a dwelling:

1. Manipulation of volumes, which refers to the considerations that a designer,

builder, or occupant will give to use the entire volume, such as all the floors of a

multi-storey building.

2. Spatial arrangement, which considers the way in which the spaces

themselves within the volume are dealt with and used. A space can be an entire

floor or a single room on that floor

3. Growth and division, which refers to the design strategies or means that

permit the expansion or reduction of volumes or space either during design and

construction or later throughout the occupancy.

4. Manipulation of subcomponents, which are the elements employed in the

construction and use of a building, which can be as large as structural components

or as small as a water pipe.

Source: The Adaptable House by Friedman (2002)

3.4.1.1 Manipulation of volumes

Manipulating volumes is a manifestation of dwelling adaptability, which could be

combining several floors to make a larger unit, then dividing it at a later stage. In

order for such a process to occur, the designer must consider elements that limit the

conversion, such as the location of circulation areas and utilities. Changes to

volumes could also require alteration of the building envelope which, as a result,

could change its appearance. Freidman (2002)

3.4.1.2 Spatial arrangement

A range of design strategies can allow adaptability of space within a home‘s

volume prior to or following occupancy. One of these strategies, for example, is to


108

propose a room that can accommodate multiple uses, such as a living room, an

office, or bedroom. Freidman (2002)

3.4.1.3 Growth and division

Design that considers expansion beyond the dwelling (add-on) or growth into a

space within the perimeter of the original volume (add-in) is another form of

adaptability. The process could also be reversed and a large home cold be divided

to form two dwelling units. Taking advantage of unused area under a staircase or

enclosing an alcove and turning it into a room is also a form of expansion. The

added space needs to be designed to function along with the existing one. In the

event of a division, the new spaces need to be designed to function independently.

Freidman (2002). The designer must pay attention to issues such as natural

lighting and to circulation between the old area and the addition, among other

considerations.

3.4.1.4 Manipulation of subcomponents

According to Freidman (2002); Subcomponents are the elements that are fitted into

the house once the structure has been erected and prior to the closing of the

horizontal and vertical surfaces. Recent advances in information technology, for

example, have introduced additional and different kinds of subcomponents into

homes. They can be electrical or computer wiring, heating and ventilation ducts,

kitchen and bathroom fixtures, prefabricated façade elements. The useful life of

many such components is often shorter than the life of the house‘s structure, which

requires replacement when the part is obsolete. Designing for adaptability would

permit easy access and replacement when the subcomponents need repair or

upgrading.


109

3.4.2 THE PRINCIPLES

For a single space to provide enough flexibility for use as a venue for combinations of

activities that could conceivably/possibly involve worship, entertainment, meeting,

study, feasting, play or social gathering, it will depend on a range of variables. Such

variables are space size and the arrangement of features, and the application of finishes

and furnishings, as well as the degree of thought given to the number of uses that is

truly practical given cost and configuration constraints. Dutton (2007). Others could be

openness of spaces, acoustics, lighting, use of stage, seating, acoustics etc. This section

elaborates on the principles to achieving space adaptability.

3.4.2.1 Shapes

Another important strategy that encourages the efficient use of space is the use of a

square or rectangular floor plan with as few interior subdivisions as possible. Freidman

(2002). Economy was achieved through the square floor plan, since it minimized the

amount of materials required for foundation walls and insulation. It was also

substantially cheaper to service, due to lower heating costs resulting from more

efficient surface area exposure. In the elimination of many extraneous traditional

rooms, adaptability was used as a design strategy to incorporate multiple activities

within a limited amount of space.

According to Kim et. al. (2004); Ultimate flexibility of space division within a very

large structural grid can be achieved by rearranging the function components, core

elements and structural system, the space efficiency can be increased. These may be

considered more remarkable uses when compared to the usual single use building and

multi-use building. As seen in the Flexabit home in Texas (fig 57), change of

configuration was made possible with the rectangular shapes of spaces


110

Fig 57: Flexabilt Home

Source; friedman 2002

3.4.2.2 Seating

Once again, flexibility is provided through innovative equipment selection and

configuration. Seating for sports events and dramatic presentations can be handled

with built-in bleachers that pull out from alcoves along the walls. Moveable tables

and chairs can be helpful.


111

Plate 37: seating in The Jujurieux as an assembly hall


And for fixed, tiered seating schemes, fold-up desktops for each seat will provide

both a ready work surface and easy ingress and egress from each row of seats. If

the multipurpose space will be used as both a theater and a cafeteria(for instance),

allow 10-14 square feet per person for dining and 7.5 square feet per person for

performance seating. Douglas, (2010). Plan should also be made for adequate chair

and table storage. Figuera‘s methods as seen under case studies are perfect

examples of how seating can be used in principle to achieve adaptability and

emphasizes the need for storage space. (fig 37).

3.4.2.3 Storage space

As far as furnishing options for a multi-use room go, Dutton (2007) recommends

that they be manageable in weight and form. Users must be able to configure

spaces to meet changing needs. ―Storage is also a factor‖, Dutton (2007).

Furnishing items must ‗stack‘ or ‗nest‘ to easily fit into efficient storage spaces.

This is as far as regular provision of box rooms and stores are concerned. On the


112

other hand, mechanical powered furniture arrangements like seats also need their

own specialized storage arrangement as shown in the figueras‘ ―multaflex‖ seating

concept (figures 58a,58b and 58c) below so as to attain adaptability.

Fig 58a, 58b and 58c: images showing adaptable/movable seating, requiring storage to

function.


113

Source: figueras.com

3.4.2.5 Compatibility

This section refers to the compatibility of use of spaces. For a space to be designed

to adapt to changing needs and requirements of the separate purposes meant for the

subject space, the purposes should have similar spatial requirements. Details of this

section will be discussed fully in chapter four under design criteria.

3.4.2.6 Use of stage

The stage should be as similar as possible to one in a traditional auditorium and

allow easy movement of materials and large equipment. It should have access to a

loading dock and any related spaces such as a gymnasium or outdoor area. It also

should have storage and a fly space, where curtains and scenery can be hung and

stored. Raised stages must be accessible, via a ramp or other means, in accordance

with federal accessibility requirements. Despite the tendency for schools to use

permanent stages for storage, the multipurpose aspects often make sightlines a

problem. Douglas, (2010).

3.4.2.7 Lighting

According to Dutton (2007), lighting and controls can have a significant influence on

the mood of a space. ―Multi-purpose spaces need to have lighting that can be adjusted

to fit a particular event,‖

More than one lighting system may be required in the multipurpose space. In addition

to serving meetings and dining events, the lighting system may be required to handle

performances and multimedia presentations. Performance lighting might require

spotlights, light controls, and a dimmer system. Plus, windows and skylights should

have shades so that the space can be darkened adequately. Douglas, (2010)


114

3.4.2.8 Adaptable Acoustics

According to Scott (2002), an architectural space can adapt itself to meet the ideal

acoustic requirements of a range of functions through careful study, design, and

planning. Although there are limits to a space‘s adjustability, it is possible to

maximize the range through this type of acoustic design. Acoustic limitations

restrict the planned activities in existing multi-purpose spaces. It is generally

understood that when one tries to accomplish too many things well, none of the

accomplishments are of above average quality. This concept has held true for

music performance venues. Scott (2002)

.

Fig 59: showing sound diffusion, reflection, absorption and material for achieving such

Source; Adaptable Acoustics in Multi-Use Music Performance Spaces

The question remains if a space be acoustically designed to meet the needs of many

different types of activities and achieve excellent sound for each. This quality

standard can be met by a multi-purpose performance facility through the use of

adaptable acoustics.

As just indicated, acoustic treatment can be one of the most difficult balancing acts

for multipurpose spaces. Douglas, (2010). Depending on the mix of uses, the space


115

may need to accommodate voice, film, and dramatic productions and be capable of

handling microphones and the public address system. Walls and ceilings should

incorporate proper acoustical treatment. Room configuration is also important, such

as a multi-tiered ceiling that can enhance acoustics. In the design of a combined

cafeteria and auditorium, the cafeteria function typically dominates the planning

and layout of the room (e.g., flat versus inclined floors and movable versus fixed

seating). Luckily, even though acoustic requirements for a cafeteria are

significantly less critical than those for an auditorium function, the amount of

sound absorption required for an auditorium is typically also adequate to keep

general chatter down during cafeteria use. Douglas, (2010). So, for acoustics, a

space should be designed primarily for speech and musical presentations.

Adaptable methods for acoustics

This can be optimally achieved by having a sound reflective/diffusive lower ceiling

area (or suspended acoustic clouds) in front of and over the stage, highly sound-

absorptive material for the rear and sides of the ceiling, reflective/diffusive lower

walls and upper walls treated with materials that absorb sound in mid-to-low

frequencies and diffuse sound in high frequencies. This allows mid- and low-

frequency reverberation time to be controlled without sacrificing the high

frequencies that are crucial for speech intelligibility and music clarity. The lower

wall areas are often almost entirely occupied with doors, windows, and vending

machines, and, therefore, are not typically considered for acoustic treatment. For

walls, acoustic treatment is best placed above 10 feet (3m), which also keeps

treated areas above the reach of most users. Douglas, (2010).


116

Room shape

The most basic architectural determinant of acoustics is the room shape. It may

have more impact than any other decision on how the space is perceived by the

inhabitants. Scott (2002). This is the case partly because the room shape is a visual

key as well as an acoustic key. Not only do the surface elements of the room shape

affect what is heard by the ears, but the eyes perceive them as the limits of the

inhabitable space. The brain is accustomed to correlating the volume of a room

with the sound produced within that room. The acoustical properties of the room

shapes that are commonly used primarily depend on the side walls, not the walls

behind or in front of the stage. Room forms are fan-shaped, rectangular, reverse-

fan-shaped, and horseshoe-shaped.

Fig 60: floor plans. Left to right; NHK Hall – Tokyo, Syphony Hall – Boston, Concert Hall of

the Sydney Opera House, and Teatro Alla Scala – Milan


A fan-shaped room has walls that get farther apart, the farther away from the stage

they are. This shape is excellent for gathering the audience as close to the stage as

possible, as the layout is based on sightlines from the audience to the platform. In a

rectangular room, the side walls are parallel to each other. This is the typical


117

layout for a traditional concert hall; long reverberation times are easy to achieve.

The reverse-fan-shaped room is a modification of the rectangular room, but the

side walls angle towards each other as they get farther from the stage. This shape

makes it easy to increase the number of sound reflections off the walls. A

horseshoe-shaped room is the typical shape of an opera house, often with many

balconies that wrap around the main floor in a U shape. (See fig. 60). Generally,

the volume of the horseshoe-shaped rooms is smaller and the sound absorption is

much higher due to a large amount of people in a small space than in other shapes,

making it easier to achieve a shorter reverberation time.

Stage location

The location and placement of the stage, or performance platform, works with the

room shape to bring the performance to the audience both visually and audibly.

There are two locations for the stage. One is behind a proscenium, which is how a

standard theatre is set up. The proscenium is a wall that divides the audience

seating area from the stage area. (see fig 61). There is usually a series of curtains

that can close off the opening between the two. Scott (2002). This arrangement is

ideal for dramatic performances because the proscenium opening acts as a window

into the imaginary world of the performance. When it is used for a musical

performance, wall and ceiling panels are often needed to reflect the sound from the

stage into the audience; otherwise, the sound would resonate or be absorbed behind

the proscenium.

The other location for a stage is within the same room volume as the seating. This

has the acoustic advantage of the sound originating closer to the audience, keeping

the direct sound louder and more immediate.


118

Fig 61: showing section on top and plan bottom (one with proscenium over the stage, the

other without)


Recommended materials for multipurpose rooms

Depending on the use of a hall, an adequate reverberation time is required. For

instance, assembly halls and conference rooms require a short reverberation time.

Drotleff and Zhou, (2006). In case of conference rooms attention must also be paid

to speech intelligibility. Music performances require a somewhat longer

reverberation time, but also other quantities such as clarity, lateral fraction etc.

must be taken into account. Drotleff et. al (2006)

Multi-purpose use should, however, be realised with only one well-defined

reverberation time. A compromise is sought for every single auditorium in the

following way:

- A carefully chosen moderate reverberation time,

- Minimum variation over the whole frequency spectrum,

- A small increase towards low frequencies.

Microperforated Panel Absorbers (MPAs), Microperforated Foil Absorbers

(MFAs), Microperforated Suspended Ceilings (MSCs) are also perfectly suited for


119

attractive interior design. Drotleff et al (2006). Since these absorbers can be made

of almost any material e.g. acrylic glass, metal, plastic foil or timber they fit into

nearly any interior design concept. The absorption features of all types of

Microperforated Absorbers are tuneable to the respective requirements merely by

choosing its various geometrical parameters.

Plate 38: Photo of the training centre, a former production hall before being

refurbished into a multipurpose hall

Source: Attractive room acoustic design for multi-purpose halls

A former production hall built in 1903 (shown above in fig 38) with a volume of

about 2.400m³, converted into an open plan office, which is also used as a

conference room. The hall was granted the status of a historic monument. The

architectural design therefore called for even and homogeneous surfaces which

emphasise the original appearance. No conventional acoustic wall treatment with

perforated panels etc. was allowed. The ceiling which is equipped with stucco, was

not touched. Since the multi-purpose use emphasises speech performances the

required reverberation time in the frequency end between 250 Hz and 2.0 kHz was


120

set to be 1.5 seconds ± 10%. To the lower frequency range, down to 63 Hz, the

increase in reverberation time should be as small as possible. Drotleff et. al (2006).

Plate 39: Microperforated Foil Absorber as mobile roller blinds in front of the

windows of the training centre


The reverberation time measured in the untreated room exceeds 7 seconds. In order

to account for low frequency absorption in accordance with the requested

architectural design, 58 m² of CPA were installed onto the front and rear walls,

(plate 39) to avoid echoes and to adjust the reverberation time at mid and high

frequencies. The large windows in the side walls were treated with Microperforated

Foil Absorbers as mobile roller blinds. By using a rather small amount of area of

the scarce available surfaces, about 20% of the surface were treated, and

incorporating innovative absorbent materials in multi-use installations, a


121

reverberation time was achieved which suits multi-purpose uses. Drotleff et. al

(2006).

Plate 40: View onto the rear wall and the projection screen


Fig 62: Measured reverberation time after acoustical treatment


Depending on the use of a hall, an adequate reverberation time is required. For

instance, assembly halls and conference rooms require a short reverberation time.


122

Drotleff and Zhou, (2006). In case of conference rooms attention must also be paid

to speech intelligibility. Music performances require a somewhat longer time.

3.5 ADAPTABLE APPROACHES TO FLEXIBILITY (A CASE STUDY)

3.5.1 Non kinetic approaches

These are approaches that involve architectural solutions without the use of any

form of external energy. In this section, there are:

Use of open spaces

Use of multifunctional furniture

Use of partitions and space for expansion

3.5.1.1 Open spaces

The scarcity of interior space and the dynamic needs of the family resulted in the

reduction of such fixed features as walls that would instill rigidity in the plan and

counteract the notion of adaptability these homes embodied. Freidman (2002). The

objective of maximizing the potential range of uses within restricted interior spaces

was accomplished by presenting an open floor plan that allowed the occupants to

define the space according to their specific requirements, as opposed to designer

dictating the definition of the space. Unobstructed spaces allow reconfiguration of

activities to suit different needs as required. (fig. 63)


123

Fig 63: illustration of varied uses an open space could be configured into


According to CABE, (2001); the use of partitions between open spaces can provide

some of the benefits of a large flexible space combined with the ability to form two

smaller separate rooms. Studies suggest that one of the most effective ways of

achieving flexibility is make plans as open as possible so as to accommodate

partitions and changes as when needed though there are disadvantages to that

approach as mentioned in table 1.

Table 1: Comparism between cellular plan and open plan approach

Open plan Cellular

May reduce market acceptability Market norm

Flexible Fixed

Spatially efficient Spatially inefficient

Acoustic problems Acoustic separation

Improves daylight penetration Reduces daylight penetration

Source; CABE (2001)

3.5.1.2 Use of multifunctional furniture


124

Plates 41a and 41b. Showing shelve and cabinet (movable) used for more than one purpose

Source; Gail Wright (multifunctional rooms)

One of the easiest ways of making a space adaptable is by making the furniture

have the ability to serve different purposes at a time or different times. See plate

41a and 41b. Here the furniture can be seen to be adapted for more than one use.

Daoana (2009) points out that the key to a multi-functional room is to make the

furniture multi-functional as well. Adapting spaces can also be achieved by using

furnishings. The initial design could anticipate such a process by creating

appropriate dimensions for storage spaces. A hide-a-bed, for example, can turn a

living room into a bedroom. Freidman (2002). A set of bookshelves can serve as

the divider between the living and dining spaces in one large room. One thing that

cannot be overemphasized is the furnitures‘ adaptability and both its arrangement

and the arrangement of the space as a whole.

3.5.1.3 Use of partitions and space for expansion

The sixty-eight one- and two-storey dwellings, designed by Fællestegnestuen for

Copenhagen‘s Public Housing Association (KAB) noted in chapter two helps

explains this. Here the construction system allows walls to be moved around very


125

easily, so any layout can be adapted to different needs and requirements at any

point in time. A study after 3 years of completion showed that various residents had

changed the position of doors, added additional rooms and altered room sizes.

Hartany et. al. (2010). Rooms could easily be transformed as required with the

implementation of innovative such as sliding walls and movable partitions that

allowed privacy levels to be modified and the rooms to be created or merged at the

discretion of the residents.

The use of partitions between habitable rooms can provide some of the benefits of

a large flexible space combined with the ability to form two smaller and separate

rooms. Closing down a room can, for example, form a temporary guest bedroom or

a quiet area for home-working or open it to create a more generous space for other

suitable functions. CABE (2001).

Fig 64: illustrating the use of partitions and expansion spaces to reconfigure spaces

Source : CABE 2001


126

Plate 42: Macassar ebony sliding wall used for partitioning

Source; www.couturefurniture.com

3.5.2 Kinetic approaches

These are approaches that involve architectural solutions that make kinetic systems

to adjust space components or furniture at different times. New architectural

typologies are emerging and evolving within today‘s technologically developing

society. According to Fox and Yeh (2000); these programs present practical

architectural situations where intelligently responsive kinetic solutions can be

considered for unique and wholly unexplored applications. Intelligent kinetic

systems are an approach for utilizing technology to create architecture that

addresses today‘s dynamic, flexible and constantly changing activities.

In this section, there are:

Movable partitions and retractable walls

Movable floors

Retractable roofs

Retractable furniture/seating

3.5.2.1 Movable partitions and retractable walls

http://www.couturefurniture.com/


127

Theory suggests that movable partitions are good but an instantly operable partition

is better. Mumford (1996) Moveable/operable walls and partitions themselves

come in two main categories. There are portable walls — they‘re on casters so they

can move from room to room and even from building to building. And there are

walls that are hung from tracks. Within each of these categories are numerous

options so that one can choose to meet needs for space adaptability. Kollie (2006).

There are instances where electrically operated partitions are used to change space

configurations to provide flexibility. Plate 43 shows ―Multiroll‖, a partition curtain

that has been designed for use in large sports or multi-purpose halls.

This fully automatic system unrolls at the bush of a button to allow the utilisation

of space, creating two or more separate areas. When not in use Multiroll is hidden

in the roof area not taking up any of the floor space. Lateral guides can also be

installed to guide the curtain into position, these move with the lowering an lifting

of the curtain ensuring smooth and safe operation at all times. Dorma (2006) The

flexibility of Multiroll means it can easily overcome obstacles such as steps, slopes

or seating areas.


128

Plate 43: Multiroll partition hung (notice the larger arena)

Source; Dorma (2006)

Plate 44: Multiroll partition pulled down to create separate spaces

Source; Dorma (2006)

3.5.2.2 Movable floors

This is usually seen in stage usage, stadium and sports facilities and instances

where a swimming pool space is converted for other purpose. For instance, at the

luxury end of the indoor pool market, moving floors are seen as the ultimate way to

maximise the use of the pool room. The space need not be limited to exercise and

swimming alone. At the press of a button the rising pool floor will raise itself to the

same level as the pool surround. With appropriate choice of materials it can be

difficult to detect what lies below the new games room, dance floor or banquet hall.

This fabulous new open space can now be used for a multitude of functions and

turn back to a swimming pool at the press of a button.




129

Fig 65: sections: movable floors

Source; http://www.designsonengineering.com

3.5.2.3 Retractable roofs

A retractable roof is a kinetic architectural element used in many sports venues, in

which a roof made of a suitable material can readily be mechanically deployed

from some retracted or open position into a closed or extended position that

completely covers the field of play and spectator areas. They are generally used in

locales where inclement weather, extreme heat, or extreme cold are prevalent

during the respective sports seasons, in order to allow for playing of traditionally

outdoor sports in more favorable conditions, as well as the comfort of spectators

watching games played in such weather. Unlike their predecessors, the domes built

primarily during the 1960s, 1970s, and early 1980s, retractable roofs also allow for

playing of the same traditionally outdoor sports in outdoor conditions when the

weather is more favorable.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinetic_architecture

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domed_stadium


130

Plate 45: Aerial photograph of the Amsterdam Arena, roof open

Source: Quistnix

Plate 46: Aerial photograph of the Amsterdam Arena, roof closed

Source: Quistnix

Another purpose of retractable roofs is to allow for growth of natural grass playing

fields in environments where extreme hot and/or cold temperatures would

otherwise make installation and maintenance of such a field cost prohibitive. Not

limited to stadiums, retractable roofs are also used in residences, commercial

buildings, swim centers, and other places with overhead enclosures. Wikipedia

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Quistnix



131

(2010). Installations throughout the world employ a variety of different

configurations and styles

3.5.2.3.1 Workability

A retractable roof closure for a vehicle body having a windshield header spaced

from a fixed rear roof panel to provide an unobstructed roof opening. The closure

panel has its rearward end supported and guided by the cooperation of a guide track

extending along each side of the vehicle body beneath the fixed roof panel and

guide rollers mounted on the rear end of the closure panel and engaged within the

guide track. The forward end of the closure panel is supported by a telescopable

extension device on each end of the vehicle body. Each telescopable extension

device includes a first member mounted along the fixed roof panel and a second

member having its forward end pivotally connected to the forward end of the panel.

A third member telescopably connects the first and second members to permit

movement of the second member between a forwardly extended position

supporting the front end of the closure panel in a closed position and a rearwardly

retracted position in which the closure panel is supported and stored beneath the

fixed roof panel to open the roof opening. A tape drive assembly includes a tape

track mounted on the fixed roof panel and a flexible drive tape movable within the

tape track. A connecting link connects the flexible drive tape with the second

member to forcibly move the closure panel between open and closed positions.

Refer to appendix.

3.5.2.4 Retractable furniture/seating

Movable/retractable seating systems were created to optimize space and

profitability. They are a response to the rising cost of land and the need to design


132

multipurpose halls. These systems make it possible to simply and effectively

convert a conference seating area into an open exhibition space with minimum

labour. Seats are kept under the stage when not in use, eliminating the need for any

additional storage space.

Plate 47: a hall left open for presentations

Source: figueras

Plate 48: seating during retraction

Source: figueras




133

Plate 49: hall adapted for conferencing

Source: figueras

Most retractable seating has a telescopic folding design and a versatile nature

accommodating a full seated audience, which then stores compactly away at the

push of a button. Maximising visibility it can accommodate a variety of audiences

including sports, gym, theatre, conference, school, stadium, arena and auditorium.

It is the ideal seating solution for utilising multi-purpose spaces.



134

3.6 References

Butin D. 2000. ―Multipurpose Spaces‖, National Clearinghouse for Educational


CABE, 2001, ―By Design: Better Places to Live-A Companion Guide to PPG3‖,

Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, 11 York road, London.

pp 67-75

Country Coordinator, Earth Charter Nigeria & Youth Empowerment And

Development Initiative (YEDI), 3rd

February 2009 ‗Report of a courtesy

call/introduction of the earth charter to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)

Plateau State directorate‘ pp.2

Danfulani S. A. And Aja A.(Eds) 2008, ― NYSC in its Fourth Decade: A Strategic

Policy Output For National Development‖, Spectrum Books Limited, Ibadan.

Pp159-158

Daoana C. A. 2009, ―The Beauty Of Multi-Functional Spaces‖ Article on the Art

Object.

Dorma , 2006, ―The Specifier‘s Guide: Movable Walls‖, March, 2006. P10

Drotleff H., Zhou X., 2006, ―Attractive room acoustic design for multi-purpose

halls‖

Dutton Barbara, 2007, ―Plan Ahead and Prioritize: Get The Most Out of Multi-

Purpose Spaces‖, Workhorse Publishing LLC.

Eremasi B. E., 2010, ―NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Kaiama, Bayelsa

State‖ Unpublished Thesis Report, Department Of Architecture University Of

Nigeria, Enugu Campus

Fox M. A. And Yeh B. P. 2000, ―Intelligent Kinetic Systems‖, Kinetic Design

Group, Massachusetts Institute Of Technology, Department Of Architecture.

Freidman Avi, 2002, ―The Adaptable House: Designing Homes for Change‖, Mc-

Graw-Hill Professional


135

Gordon douglas, 2010, ―Multipurpose Spaces‖, National Clearinghouse for

Educational Facilities, 1090 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Suite 700, Washington, D.C.

Hartany Jessica, Le Angelina, 2010, ―NextGen Housing: On flexible spaces and

modularity. Pp 13

Kennedy J. 1994, ―Challenging Camp Design Guidelines‖ Pp.47

Kim. H. And Elnimeiri M, 2004, ―Space Efficiency In Multi-Use Tall Building‖

Illinois School Of Technology

Michael O. 2010, The Use of Trees to Modify Urban Micro-Climate in West

Africa: Article extracted from “The Use of Tress to Modify Microclimate in

Hot-Humid Tropical West African Urban Centers”, 1985

Neufert E. & Neufert P. (2002), ―Neufert Architect‘s Data‖, (3rd

edition) UK;

Blackwell publishing company. P.436

Okeke N. O. 1999, NYSC Orientation Camp Awgu, Unpublished Thesis Report,

Department Of Architecture University Of Nigeria, Enugu Campus

Scott A. H., 2002, ―Adaptable Acoustics In Multi-Use Music Performance Spaces‖,

School of Architecture and Interior Design College of Design, Architecture, Art,

and Planning University of Cincinnati

Walker Andy, 2010, ―Natural Renewable Energy Technology: Natural

Ventilation‖, Whole Building Design Guide, National Institute of Building

Sciences. 15th June 2010

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/mammy_market 2010

www.princeton.edu (2010).

www.nysc.org.ng (2010).


www.opennetworkarchitecture.com

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retractable_roof

http://www.dehum.co.uk/movable_floors.htm

http://www.generation-europe.eu/forum/2010/11/the-use-of-trees-to-modify-urban-micro-climate-in-west-africa/


http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/mammy_market%202010




CHAPTER FOUR


134

4.0 DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS

The aim of the data analysis and data presentation procedure is to enable the author

to find out:

1. Areas needed for the dissertation

2. Possible space allocation or requirement of each activity given in the brief.

3. Other activities apart from orientation programme which a camp could be used for.

4. The relationship between spaces and activities.

In this section, the author has employed two types of data procedure in taking the

dissertation design and they are:

Primary data

Evolved data

4.0.1 Primary Data

Primary data means those data collected from research work, either from case

studies, field work, which maybe from oral information or by measurements of

facilities and equipment. Information obtained from questionnaire forms the major

part of the primary data.

The number of participants in the NYSC scheme in the country and the FCT should

have been part of the primary data, but due to the un-cooperating attitude of some

of the NYSC officials and the secrecy/confidential attachment to their operations,

data were not given and this also contributed to part of the limitations of the study.

4.0.2 Evolved Data

Evolved data is a data generated from the primary data. This is the data the author

generated by synthesizing the primary data collected and this evolved data are used

in the design.


135

4.0.3 PRESENTATION OF ANALYSED DATA

In the presentation of the results of the studies carried out, an analytical approach

has been adopted and are presented in accordance with the following aspects of life

in the orientation camp; social life, paramilitary and man O war, educational

engagement, games, religious, recreational/ relaxation, and health.

4.03.1 Sports

Opinions were sampled amongst past and present corps members to know what

sporting activities they would like to take part in to enable the researcher know the

facilities he has to provide. From case studies, it is noticed that the most common

facilities for sports in orientation camps across the countries are football (soccer),

table tennis and volleyball.

Though the result in fig. 66 suggests that these three porting activities are to be

given paramount attention, there are other sporting activities to be considered like

badminton, lawn tennis, basketball etc.

Fig 66: chart showing suggested sports facilities to be provided

Source: author


136

Plate 50: corpers taking part in a football match


4.0.3.2 Non-NYSC activities to be incorporated

Fig 67: chart showing suggested non-NYSC activities to be incorporated in design

Source: author

Opinions of lots of people where sampled from people in authorities to corpers to

non-corpers on the type of facilities to be provided that will aid the use of

orientation camp for other purposes. Even case studies suggest that some

orientation camps are presently used for other activities apart from orientation


137

programmes. The idea behind this part of the data presentation and analysis is to

know the spaces to be considered so as to achieve ―adaptable spaces‖ which is the

area of study for this dissertation.

As seen in figure 67, the activities that came up for consideration amonst others

are;

Citizenship and leadership Training Center (Man o‘ War or CLTL) activities (to be

used as temporary training camp for their courses)

Retreat programme activities (most of the ideas that came up were that of churches

and some organisations)

Skill acquisition (plate 51)

Sport academy activities especially football (plate 52)

Fitness programme

Training and accommodation ground for festivals in the FCT (NYSC camp Kubwa

Village, Abuja, presently being used for this purpose)

Others like festivals etc.

Plate 51: girls during a sewing skill acquisition scheme


138

Source: Diana Cossa for NDE

Plate 52: young people during a football academy session in Abuja

Source: pmnigerianews.com

Plate 53: people practicing calisthenics for a festival in Beijing china, NYSC camp Kubwa

village is presently used for this purpose

Source: Dan Chung for the Guardian

4.0.3.4 Social Life

Among the objectives of the NYSC orientation programme is to bring corpers

together to interact among themselves so that they could develop the mind to work

together in the national interest. The orientation programme also aims at

acquainting the corpers with their environment – its political, cultural, social and

economic setting.


139

These can fully be achieved through the encouragement of adequate interaction

among corpers and between corper members and indigenes in their states of

service. These are identified as the social aspects of the corp member‘s life on

camp. How then do these forms of interaction take place? What programme of the

camp and facilities encourages them?

Fig 68: venues for corper‟s social interaction

Source: Author

From the studies carried out, it was discovered that corpers interaction among

themselves using the following avenues; hostels, where they play indoor games

together, hold discussions and use the same conveniences, the auditorium or

multipurpose hall; where they hold lectures, watch or participate in theatre or

drama group performance, symposia and seminar; the physical training activities;

the parade ground, where, most of them participate in the drill, while those who

cannot participate sit down to watch and discuss, and the ―mammy‖ market, where

they go to relax, refresh , eat and discuss. Other venues where the corpers interact

are the bush part during jungle expedition (plate 54), the dinning during meal times

and the sports ground, during games.


140

Plate 54: corpers interacting during expedition


So far, the venues and ways through which corpers interact among themselves have

been seen. But to further illustrate the extent to which each aspect of the orientation

programme contributed in encouraging the much needed social interaction among

corpers. Fig 68 shows the distribution.

4.0.3.2 Paramilitary Life

The paramilitary life training on camp is meant to instil discipline in the corp

members and also to provide them with a fit physically sound body. The

paramilitary training helps to build the corp members to enable them face

challenges of the service year in particular and life in general.

The paramilitary training include drill, match past, endurance trek, mountaineering

or mountain climbing, field craft, swimming, jogging, and general physical

training. These activities often intermingle with the activities of the man O war,

thus making it difficult to draw a line between the two activities. The result of the

study carried out, shows that the paramilitary drills have recorded much success in

preparing the corp members for the service year.


141

Plates 55a and 55b: man o‟ war guide with female corper during paramilitary drill (left) and

corpers taking part in jogging (right)

Source: Author‟s field study

Fig 69: distribution for activities that prepared an average corper the most

Source: Author

From the chart in fig. 69, the corp members when asked the question ―what aspect

of your orientation programme really prepared you for your service year‘‘ drill

ranked the highest among the other factors listed.


142

4.0.3.5 Relaxation and recreation

The recreation and relaxation activities of corp members intermingles from the

survey taken of corpers and ex-corpers. Their recreation/ relaxation activities range

from sleeping to theatre acting, playing of music, holding discussions in the

mammy-market and participation in indoor games. Results show that the majority

of recreational/ relaxation activities take place mainly in the hostels, mammy-

market and during games.

Earlier analysis have also shown that these areas are important zones in the camp,

providing avenues for the socialisation of corp members among themselves. Thus,

they shall be emphasized in the design.

Fig 70: distribution for activities that prepared an average corper the most

Source: Author


143

4.1 SITE LOCATION STUDIES (ABUJA FCT.)

Abuja is found on latitude 8° 25‖ and 9° 25‖ North of the Equator and longitude 6°

45‖ and 7° 45‖ East of the Greenwich. Ujoh, kwabe and Ifatimehin (2009). It is

the capital city of Nigeria, located in the centre of the country, within the Federal

Capital Territory. Abuja is a planned city, and was built mainly in the 1980s. It

officially became Nigeria's capital on 12 December 1991, replacing Lagos. At the

2006 census, the city of Abuja had a population of 776,298. According to Adeoye

(2007); Abuja FCT covers a total land area of approximately 7,315km². It is bordered

to the North by Kaduna state, to the east by Nassarawa state, to the west by Niger

state and to the south by Kogi state (Figure). The Federal Capital City (FCC) is located

on the Northeastern part of the FCT. Ujoh et. al. (2009).

Fig 71: Map of Africa showing the countries with Nigeria (coloured pink)

Source: Abuja geographic information systems

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capital_city

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigeria

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Capital_Territory,_Nigeria



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planned_city

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lagos


144

Fig 72: Map of Nigeria showing the 36 states and the FCT (coloured pink) in the center


Fig 73: Map of Abuja FCT showing the area councils



145

4.1.1 Geography

Abuja‘s beauty is encapsulated in its landscape-profiled rolling hills, isolated

highlands and gaps with low dissecting plains. Its Southwest area has the lowest

elevation where flood plain of Gurara River is at an elevation of about 70m above

sea level. The land rises irregularly from there, Eastwards. The Bwari-Aso range in

the North-East, the Gurara range Southwest of Suleja and Idon Kasa Range, North-

West of Gwagwalada. National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course and

Service Guide (2010). There are other isolated rocks dotting parts of the city. The

area is thus, pleasantly conducive for eco-adventure tourism. The area is

characterized by a hilly, dissected terrain and is the highest part of the FCT with

several peaks that are 760 m above sea level. Ujoh et. al. (2009).

Plate 56: Showing Zuma rock

Source: commons.wikimedia.org

4.1.2 Centrality and population

Abuja is easily accessible from all parts of the country, whether by road or air. It is

located in the centre of Nigeria. Wikipedia (2010). Fig 74. The Federal Capital

Territory had a population of 778,567 in 2006. Both the city and the Federal Capital


146

Territory have undergone a huge population growth—with some areas around Abuja

growing at a rate of up to 30 percent each year. www.transparencyng.com (2009).

According to ―National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course And Service Guide‖

For 2010 Abuja batch ‗A‘, it is today without any doubt, one of the fastest growing

cities now with an estimated population of about 6 million people currently living in

its environs. Though according to Klaus (2008), Abuja had 1.4 million inhabitants.

Fig 74: Map of Nigeria showing the 36 states and the FCT in the center (centralized)

Source: Magellan Geographics

4.1.3 Original inhabitants, current ethnicity and occupation

According to ―National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course And Service

Guide‖ For 2010 Abuja batch ‗A‘, the Gbagyi (Gwari), Gade, Koro and Gwandara

http://www.transparencyng.com/


147

speaking people of Nigeria first inhabited the land known as Abuja. The Gbagyi or

the Gwaris are popularly known to have a very ancient culture which is very

comparable in age to the famed Nok culture in Kaduna. They are expert potters,

craftsmen and farmers who have remained unaffected by the enticement of

modernity.

Plate 57: showing some Gbagyi women with loads on their shoulders (typical culture)

Source: google images

Most of the villages in the FCT are either entirely Gbagyi speaking natives or at

least 90% of them. Other ethnic groups include Bassa, Gade, Koro, Gwariba,

Hausa, Yoruba, Igala, Tiv and Igbo among others. All these ethnic groups are

found in large villages such as Abaji, Mukuni, Gwagwalada, Karu Karshi Nyanya,

Rubochi etc. National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course and Service Guide

(2010).

The ethnic composition is changing fast in the face of significant migration of

people from different parts of the country into the territory, mostly occasioned by


148

the movement of some Federal Ministries and Parastatals to the city. The

population growth has tripled in recent times. Klaus (2008)

At least 70% of the population of the FCT is farmers while 10% and 15% respectively

are engaged in trading and public service. Others are distributed in small numbers

among such population as cattle rearing, arts, crafts etc. However, the occupational

structure has changed with the movement of Federal Government seat to Abuja. About

845 villages make up the Federal Capital Territory. The dominant form of settlement in

the FCT is villages of nucleated type. The houses are either closely grouped together, or

grouped into compounds on either side of the streets. One of the reasons for their living

in nucleated villages is to provide for easy defense. Even when peace returned in the

wake of colonial administration, this type of settlement pattern is known as Tungas and

described as ―daughter villages‖ still persists. National Youth Service Corps

Orientation Course and Service Guide (2010).

4.1.4 Vegetation

The predominant types of vegetation in the FCT are guinea savannah and rain forest

(especially along the river basins). (Fig 75). Woodland, parks and shrub savannah

abound in few places at the side of hills or rocky areas. The rain forest however,

reflects the true nature of FCT and differentiates between the Southern forest and the

Northern grassland conditions. National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course and

Service Guide (2010).

The vegetation of the FCT is divided into three Savannah types of park or grassy that

occupies about 53 percent of the total area and where the vegetation is annually; the

Savannah woodland that occurs mostly in the rugged and less accessible parts on the

Gurara, Robo and Rubochi plains and surrounding hills. They cover 12.8 percent and

the Shrub Savannah that occurs extensively in rough terrain close to hills and ridges in


149

all parts of the FCT and covers about 12.9 percent of the land area. www.fct.gov.ng

(2010)

Fig 75: map of Nigeria showing the vegetation spread

Source: www.fao.org

The dominant vegetation of the Territory is, however, classified into three savannah

types.

The Park or Grassy Savannah: This is approximately about 4,231 square km, or 53

percent, of the total area of the FCT. Vegetation occurs annually and tree species found

include; Albizia, Zygia, Butyrospernum paradoxum, Anniellia, Oliveri and Parkia

Clappertoniana.

The Savannah Woodland: This region covers 1,026 square km, or 12.8 percent,

of the territory. It occurs mostly on the Gurara, Robo and Rubochi plains and

surrounding hills. Common trees found in this region include; afzelia, africana

anogeissus, leiocarpus, butyroscarpus paradoxim, daniella oliveri, khaya senegalensis,

Abuja

http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Tree


150

prosopis africana, uapaca togoensis, albizia, zygia, vitex doniant, bombox costatum,

and ptrecarpus erinaceus.

The Shrub Savannah: This class of vegetation occurs extensively in rough

terrain close to hills and ridges in all parts of the territory. It covers about 1,031 square

km, or 12.9 percent, of the land area. Tree species found in it include: antiaris africana,

anthocleista nobils, ceiba pentandra, cola gigantean, celtis spp, Chorophora excels

(iroko), khaya grandifolia (Benin Mahogany) terminalia superb (afara), triplochiton

scleroxylon, and dracacna arborea. Certain tree species normally associated with other

parts of the rain forest in the south of Nigeria are also found in some of the forest

patches, such as piptadeniatrum africanum (agboin), lophira alata (ekki), and terminalia

ivorensis (idigbo). www.newworldencyclopedia.org (2011)

4.1.5 Climatic conditions of Abuja

According to ―National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course and Service Guide‖

For 2010 Abuja batch ‗A‘, the temperature is highest in the months of March and April

and lowest in December and January.

The FCT has two main seasons, rainy (April to October) and dry (November to March).

The high altitude and undulating terrain of the territory act to provide a regulating

influence on its weather. During the dry season, the typical month being March, the

temperature varies between 30°C in the northeast to about 37°C in the southwest. This

period is characterised by high diurnal ranges when drops of as high as 17°C may be

recorded between the highest and lowest temperatures in a day. During the rainy

season, temperatures drop considerably due to dense cloud cover. The annual range

also drop to around 7°C, especially between July and August. The Federal Capital

Territory records relative humidity, in the dry season, of some 20 per cent in the

http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/


151

afternoon at higher elevations and at more northern locations but about 30 percent in

the extreme south.

Fig 76a and 76b: total annual rainfall spread (left) and total annual temperature spread

(right) with Abuja in the center of the map

Source: www.fao.org

This rather low relative humidity, coupled with the high afternoon temperatures,

account for the desiccating effect of the dry season which is also marked by the

presence of the harmattan haze. During the rainy season, the afternoon relative

humidity rises everywhere to above fifty percent. In terms of physiological

comfort, the high relative humidity in the extreme south of the Territory gives the

area a heat trap effect which makes it uncomfortably hot.

For maximum human comfort, northern locations are better, especially locations to

the northeast where the FCC is being built. Rainfall in the FCT starts from about

March in the southernmost part of the territory, to about April at the northern

limits. The rainfall of the territory depicts very high seasonal fluctuation

(sometimes as high as seventynine percent). The annual range is in the order of

1,100mm to 1,600mm. The end of the rains is around October in the northern parts

of the territory and about November in the extreme south. The FCT is located on


152

the wind ward side of the Jos Plateau and this creates conditions favourable for the

higher rainfall total as one moves from the south to the north, and this is rather

strange in a country where the rainfall decreases from the south to north. This gives

the FCT more rain than areas on the same or even more southerly latitudes.

This can be deduced from the fact that Lokoja and Makurdi, just South of the FCT

have 1,146mm and 1132mm total annual rain fall respectively, compared with

Suleja and Jos, just north of the FCT, which have the higher annual rain fall of

1,632mm and 1,403mm, respectively. One noteworthy phenomenon of weather in

the Territory is the frequent occurrence of disturbance or line squalls. This is a

weather condition heralded by the occurrence of dense, dark, cumulonimbus clouds

with thunder and lightning, followed by strong winds and rainfall of very high

intensity. Such rainfall may last for up to half an hour and is then followed by

drizzle of several hours duration. This weather condition is then replaced by a few

days of bright, clear skies. The phenomenon is associated with high connective

activity aided by relief effects. It is thought to originate from the Jos Plateau region

and to travel from East to West across the territory. www.onlinenigeria.com (2011)

4.1.6 Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC)

The Abuja municipal area council is the urban and suburban area council of Abuja in

which the seat of power is located. The master plan for Abuja and the Federal Capital

Territory (FCT) was developed by International Planning Associates (IPA), a

consortium of three American firms: Planning Research Corporation; Wallace,

McHarg, Roberts and Todd; and Archisystems, a division of the Hughes Organization.

The master plan for Abuja defined the general structure and major design elements of

the city that are visible in the city's current form. More detailed design of the central

http://www.onlinenigeria.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Capital_Territory



http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=International_Planning_Associates&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Planning_Research_Corporation&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wallace_Roberts_%26_Todd



http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Archisystems&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Hughes_Organization&action=edit&redlink=1


153

areas of the capital, particularly its monumental core, was accomplished by Kenzo

Tange, a renowned Japanese architect, with his team of city planners at Kenzo Tange

and Urtec company. Most countries relocated their embassies to Abuja, and many

maintain their former embassies as consulates in Lagos, still the commercial capital of

Nigeria. The Abuja skyline is made up of mostly mid-range and a few tall buildings.

Only recently have tall buildings begun to appear. Most of the buildings are modern,

reflecting that it is a new city.

Plate 58: skyline/aerial view of Abuja FCT

Source: Roland Klaus

Abuja and the FCT have experienced huge population growth; it has been reported that

some areas around Abuja have been growing at 20% to 30% per year. Squatter

settlements and towns have spread rapidly in and outside the city limits. Tens of

thousands of people have been evicted since former FCT minister Nasir Ahmad El-

Rufai started a demolition campaign in 2003.

The Phase 1 area of the city is divided into five districts: the Central,

the Garki, Wuse, Maitama, and Asokoro. There are also five districts in Phase 2. They

are Kado, Durumi, Gudu,Utako and Jabi. And the Phase 3 districts are Mabuchi, Katampe

(site location), Wuye and Gwarimpa, all within Abuja municipal area council.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenzo_Tange



http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Kenzo_Tange_and_Urtec&action=edit&redlink=1



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Embassy

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Consul_(representative)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lagos

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eviction

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasir_Ahmad_el-Rufai

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasir_Ahmad_el-Rufai

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_District,_Abuja

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garki_District,_Abuja

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wuse_District,_Abuja

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maitama_District,_Abuja

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asokoro_District,_Abuja

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Kado_District,_Abuja&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Durumi_District,_Abuja&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Gudu_District,_Abuja&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Utako_District,_Abuja&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jabi_District,_Abuja&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mabuchi_District,_Abuja&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Katampe_District,_Abuja&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Wuye_District,_Abuja&action=edit&redlink=1


154

Fig 77: land use map of Abuja municipal area council (AMAC)

Source: AGIS

4.1.7 Site Location

The proposed site is plot 1002 Katampe Extension District in Abuja Municipal

Area Council, FCT. It is located North of Murtala Muhammed Way, opposite the

main Katampe district behind which is a wide expanse of forest vegetation in

Bwari Area council.


155

Fig 77: Map of Abuja Municipal Area Council showing the phases and Katampe

Extension as part of phase 2


Fig 78: Part of Abuja‟s area councils showing Katampe Extension (circled) under AMAC

Source: AGIS

Katampe Extension

http://www.fao.org/


156

Fig 79: Map of katampe extension showing all the plots and plot 1002 in emphasis


4.2 SITE CHARACTER AND ANALYSIS

4.2.1 Geographical Location of the site and Katampe Extension

The proposed site is located along Ring road in Katampe Extension District in

Abuja Municipal Area Council, FCT. It is located North of Murtala Muhammed

Way opposite the main Katampe, Jahi and Bunkoro districts behind which is a

wide expanse of forest vegetation. The site lies exactly on latitude 90

07‘ 40.65‖

North of the Equator and on longitude 70

25‘ 33.63‖

East of the Greenwich

meridian. It stands on the altitude of about 503 meters above the sea level. Google

maps (2010). The expanse of land towards its North is hilly and studded with

vegetation and granite formations of volcanic origins. In relation to the Abuja city,

the site is about 12km from it.


157

Plate 59: Google earth image showing Katampe Extension

Source: Google earth

Fig 80: AGIS map showing Katampe Extension with proposed site (coloured red)

Source: AGIS

http://www.fao.org/

http://www.fao.org/


158

Plate 60: close-up Google earth image of the proposed NYSC orientation camp

Source: Google earth

Plate 61: showing the access road to the site and street lights (existing public infrastructure)


http://www.fao.org/


159

Plate 62: showing part of the site, part of the adjacent site, and part of the access road in with

hills in the background for Man O‟ War activities


4.2.2 Choice of Location

The site has been found suitable for the proposed national youth service corps orientation

camp, Abuja because of the following advantages derived from some criteria:

a) Quick and easy accessibility due to the availability of access roads

b) Enough land area for future expansion.

c) Availability of public utilities and infrastructure. (Fig. 81)

d) Seclusion of the location from the undesirable effects of city life and at the same time not

being too far off the city because of the need for other activities apart from orientation

course programmes.

e) The area, Katampe Extension is part of phase 2 of the Abuja master plan mapped out

mainly for mixed use, sports and recreation making it a suitable location for an orientation

camp.

f) Natural environment in the proximity of the site is available for camp activities


160

Fig 81. map of Katampe Extension showing infrastructure (road, water, sewage, drainage,)

Source: AGIS

The site is a virgin land and served by the well accessed Ring road. Also the site is

off the busy activity zone of the FCT and apparently would enjoy the quiet

atmosphere necessary to engage the attention of the corps members.

Plate 63: corps members in Zamfara state taking part in mountain climbing showcasing the

need for hilly terrains in the proximity

Source: nysczamfara.org


161

4.2.3 Geology, Soil and Land Capability

According to Ujoh et. al. (2009), the geology of the area is underlain by basement

complex rocks. The soils of the study area are basically Alluvial and Luvisols. The

two main types of soils in FCT are the sedimentary belt in the southern and south-

western extremities of the territory and the pre-Cambrian Basement complex rock

country which accounts for more than 80 percent of the territory. www.fct.gov.ng

(2010). The sedimentary formation, being part of the Nupe land sandstones,

consists mainly of fine-grained sandstones with inclusions of grits, siltstone and

clay lense and the Basement complex consists of a wide variety of rock types

which can be classified into three broad groups:

(i) The igneous rocks made up mostly of biotite grantie, rhyolite, syenite, gabbro

diorite. The granites account for most of the rock domes and massive hills in the

north-eastern and north-western parts of the territory, including the Bwari-Aso

hills. The Iku-Gurara plains are largely underlain by rhyolite which also occurs

over large sections of Gwagwa plains.

(ii) The migmatites and gneiss complex which are metamorphic rocks consisting

mostly of migmatite, granite, gneiss and porphyritic gneiss occur on the Gwagwa,

Iku-Gurara and Robo plains.

(iii) Schists, including biotite/muscovite schists, muscovite and tale schists with

quartzite intrusive account for most of the rugged landscape in the eastern and

southern parts of the FCT. The migmatite, granite, gneiss and biotite granite

underline the site of the FCC. These are rocks of medium to high strength which


162

were not expected to present serious engineering problems and which, therefore,

should provide suitable locations for engineering structures.

The rocks of the FCT are generally quartz-rich, acidic types which account for the

generally sandy nature of the soil, especially on the Iku Gurara, Robo, Rubochi

plains, katampe and its environs. www.fct.gov.ng (2010). The Gwagwa plains have

the most fertile soils and the best agricultural lands of all the plains of the FCT

while the high sand content of most soils within the FCT accounts for the relatively

high erosion status. There is however, one major advantage about the type of rocks

and soils found in the FCT because of the availability of construction materials in

the form of building stones, quartz and pistolitic gravel, building sands and earth

for use as foundation materials.

Fig 82 : map showing geology of the FCT

Source: www.wrtdesign.com

http://www.wrtdesign.com/


163

4.2.4 Climatic Analysis

Weather conditions in Abuja are influenced by its location within the Niger-Benue

trough on the windward side of the Jos Plateau and at the climate transition zone

between the essentially 'humid' south and the 'sub-humid' north of the country. The

climatic dictates of the FCT are essentially from the south west to the North West

due to the rising elevation from the Gurara valley in the south west, to the Bwari-

Aso hills and the Agwa -Karu hills to the north east.

TABLE 2: CLIMATOLOGICAL INFORMATION OF ABUJA SHOWING ANNUAL

TEMPERATURE AND RAINFALL DISTRIBUTION OF ABUJA

Month Daily Min

Temp °C

Daily Max

Temp °C

Mean Total

Rainfall (Mm)

Mean Number

Of Rain Days

Jan 20.4 34.7 1.7 0.1

Feb 25.5 36.8 5.4 0.2

Mar 24.3 36.9 11.3 1.3

Apr 24.7 35.6 62.8 4.2

May 19.5 32.7 134.1 9.4

June 18.3 30.6 164.2 12.3

July 21.9 29.1 217.5 14.0

Aug 17.7 28.9 262.7 16.2

Sep 17.5 30.0 253.4 15.9

Oct 21.4 32.0 103.2 8.0

Nov 15.7 34.4 3.7 0.3

Dec 15.5 34.6 1.2 0.1

Source: www.met.gov.my

4.2.4.1 Rainfall and wind

The FCT has two distinct seasons, namely the rainy season that begins around

March and runs through October and the dry season which begins from October

http://www.met.gov.my/


164

and ends in March. However, within these seasons is a brief harmattan season that

is occasioned by the north east trade wind and the attendant dust haze, increased

cold and dryness. Rainfall in Katampe Extension reflects the territory's location on

the windward side of the Jos Plateau while the monthly rainfall distribution

intensifies during the months of July, August and September. According to New

World Encyclopedia (2010), the annual total rainfall is in the range of 43.3 inches

(1100 mm) to 63 inches (1600 mm).

Fig 83: showing annual wind speed distribution of Abuja

Source: www.myweather2.com

Fig 84: showing annual precipitation of Abuja


http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Rain

http://www.myweather2.com/



165

4.2.4.2 Temperature and relative humidity

The high temperatures and the relative humidity in the Niger -Benue trough give

the Federal Capital Territory a heating effect but the increasing elevation towards

the northeast reduces the heat in areas like on the Gwagwa plains where the Federal

Capital City (FCC) and Katampe Extension is sited than on the Iku-Gurara plains

to the west. According to Wikipedia (2010), the rainy season begins from April and

ends in October, when daytime temperatures reach 28 °C (82.4 °F) to 30 °C

(86.0 °F) and nighttime lows hover around 22 °C (71.6 °F) to 23 °C (73.4 °F).

Fig 85: showing annual minimum and maximum temperature distribution of Abuja


4.2.5 Terrain, Topography and vegetation of Katampe Extension

Site studies shows that Katampe Extension lies over 500 meters above sea level,

(fig 86) most of its area is on relatively level ground making it a good ground for

construction. The proposed site slopes mildly from the North to the South. One

major observation about the site is that Bwari area council which the proposed site

borders to the south is laden with vegetation and hills which is also good for

orientation programme activities. According to www.fct.gov.ng (2010), the official



166

website of the Federal Capital Territory; the territory falls within the Savannah

zone vegetation of the West African sub-region but patches of rain forest, however,

occur in the Gwagwa plains that form one of the surviving northern-most

occurrences of the mature forest vegetation in Nigeria which is close to where

Katampe Extension falls.

Fig 86: close-up Google earth-generated corresponding contour map of Katampe Extension

source: google maps

4.2.6 SITE ANALYSIS

The site; plot 1002 Katampe Extension, has its main entrance to the south accessed

through the already tarred ring road though there is another secondary access by

the south east. The site is a virgin ground with mostly trees and savannah on

ground. During the wet season, the south-west winds cut through the site by the left

of the image in fig 87, whilst the north easterly hammarttan wind cut through the

site through the top right of the image during the dry seasons. Orientation of

buildings on site will ensure due advantage taken of the existing situations. The


167

shape of the site suggests a situation where most of the facilities will be

concentrated in the northern parts of the site. The temperature due to the sun will

be according to the already discussed climatic conditions of Katampe Extension.

Fig 87: climatic analysis of proposed site

source: author‟s sketches


168

Fig 87: site analysis showing noise source and drainage flow


The topography on site suggests a mild slope from the north-east to the west then to

the south before it joins the exterior of the site. (Fig 88). Another issue to be

considered on site is noise source. Noise is not a major problem on site since

Katampe Extension is a secluded area with little or no traffic though noise could be

generated from the west of the site (as seen in fig 88) due to the activities in the

area and a little noise from the access road on busy days.

The surrounding areas are mostly virgin since not much development has taken

place in the area. the existing structures don not pose any threat to the site. (Fig 89)


169

Fig 88: site analysis showing existing structures around the proposed site


4.3 CHARACTERISTIC HOUSING PROBLEM IN ABUJA AS A

WARM WET CLIMATE REGION

1. The atmosphere has high vapour pressure hence all uncovered housing metallic parts

are liable to rust and wooden part to rot.

2. The trade wind, which usually comes from the southwest trade wind basically,

brings cold breeze blowing on the surface. Hence the prevailing wind and storm must


170

be studied before building is oriented. Also ventilation of internal space is of major

importance.

3. Convention Rainfall usually has its peak in the month of July and September at an

average annual precipitation of 1400mm could affect the roofing if not well designed

to have the proper slope.

4. High temperature which usually is at its hottest month in June with temperature up

to 270

C could affect the thermal comfort of building occupants. Hence there is need for

prevention of internal temperature rise during the day in order to enhance minimization

of temperature during the evening and night.

5. Buildings are also prone to biological attack or fungal growth.

Fig 89. Rainfall distribution of Nigeria

Source:www.fao.org

4.3.1 Design Solutions and Recommendations in the FCT

Taking critical look at the data obtained and possible housing problems as illustrated

above, it is obvious that the principal housing problems of this climatic zone requires

some architectural design considerations as follows:

Katampe Extension as part of heavy

rain (wet part of FCT and the North)


171

1. A careful selection of materials and design details which will enhance a moderate

interior temperature.

2. In the bedrooms, it is important to have a cross ventilation and the windows should

be as close as possible to the height of the bed to ensure adequate air flow around the

occupant of the sleeping area.

3. The roof should be made of lightweight covers such as tiles, asbestos sheet and

aluminum roofing sheets and should be constructed with a high pitch to allow free fall

of water during raining season.

4. Spaces should be provided for trees between buildings help in achieving good

ventilation.

5. Also a good choice of material for the building from likelihood of biological attack

by insect and fungal growth.

6. FCT like other warm wet climate requires the architect to study the direction of

prevailing wind to enhance the best ventilation

7. A large opening for doors and windows are of advantage for ventilation and also

enhances lower interior temperature.

4.4 SPACE REQUIREMENT AND FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS

This section outlines the various functional units of an orientation camp. For each

unit, they shall be summarized: its functions, categories of users involved, the

critical design requirements as well as the functional spaces required. Some space

functional models are also featured.

For a standard NYSC orientation camp, certain spaces are required which are

mentioned as follows;

Administration, NYSC kit store, Parade ground, Man O war courses, Housing

(accommodation facilities), Catering/dinning, Camp clinic, Educational facilities,


172

The OBS.(orientation broadcasting station) Gymnasium, Mammy-market, The

camp court, The maintenance unit/services, Religious unit(fellowship centres and

mosque) amongst others.

But for the benefit of this study only certain spaces as mentioned in chapter one

according to the scope will be analysed in detail.

Fig 90. showing the camp spaces and their relationship

4.4.1 ADMINISTRATION

For this section, the following shall be considered:

Its functions,


173

Categories of users involved,

The functional spaces required.

4.4.1.1 Functions

Administers and manages the camp

Co-ordinates the other units of the camp

Specifically handles the following and more; Finance, accommodation, catering,

registration of corps members, record keeping and maintenance/ services.

4.4.1.2 Category of Users Involved

a. NYSC officials

b. Military staff

c. Man O war instructors

d. The police

4.4.1.3 Critical Design Requirements

a. Location should be near the entrance and be conspicuous

b. Adequate size of space for corps members

c. Flexibility in the design of office spaces

4.4.1.4 Spaces Required

Entrance Porch

Reception

Circulation

Registration Hall/ Office

Toilet

Stores

Camp Commandant‘s Office


174

Camp Directors Office

Fig 91 showing admin and its space relationship

Head Of Man O War Office

Police Officer‘s Office

Red Cross Office

Military Staff Room

General Office

Accounts Officer

Administrative

Security Offices


175

4.4.2 NYSC KIT STORE

4.4.2.1 Functions

i. Store for the NYSC corps members‘ kits.

ii. Issuance of kits to corps members

4.4.2.2 Categories of users

i. NYSC staff

ii. Corp members

4.4.2.3 Critical design requirements

i. To be conscious for corps members from the registration office

ii. Proximity to the hostels is necessary

iii. Access to motorway for delivery

4.4.2.4 Space required

i. Storage space

ii. Delivery space

iii. Adequate waiting space for corps members during issuance of kits

iv. Office and convenience for store keepers and issuing officials.

Fig 92: Showing the kit store spaces and their relationships


176

4.4.3 PARADE GROUND

4.4.3.1 Functions

i. parades and ceremonial functions

ii. physical training and exercises

4.4.3.2 Users

i. Corps members

ii. NYSC officials, military personnel, and other instructors

iii. Guests and spectators

4.4.3.3 Design Requirements

i. Location should be conspicuous

ii. Nearness to other physical activity spaces like the man O war bay is essential

iii. N-S direction is necessary.

iv. Adequate sitting area is necessary to take care of observers and corpers.

v. Proximity to the administration is important.


i. Spectators pavilion

ii. Sitting spaces

iii. Parade ground

Fig 93. showing the parade ground and it space relationship


177

4.4.4 MAN O WAR

4.4.4.1 Functions

i. Man O war training activities

ii. Display of activities for guests

4.4.4.2 Category of Users Involved

i. Corps members

ii. Man O war instructors

iii. Spectators


i. Adequate open spaces for training

ii. Aadequate provision of trees

iii. Closeness to pavilion is important.


i. Space for rope climbing exercise

ii. Space for assault course

iii. Space for circuit training etc

iv. Swimming pool(if no river is nearby)

Fig 94: showing the man O war and it space relationship


178

4.4.5 HOUSING (accommodation facilities)

4.4.5.1 Functions

i. Provision of accommodation on camp

ii. Provision of social interaction spaces.

4.4.5.2 Users Involved

i. Corps members

ii. NYSC staff

iii. Police officers

iv. Military personnel

v. Man O war personnel


i. Male hostels should be separated from female corp members.

ii. Hostel courtyard should be well landscaped to enhance socialization and

interaction

iii. Adequate privacy in all residence

iv. Officers‘ house should have provision for nearly full domestic living.

4.4.5.4 Housing Unit Required

i. Corp members

ii. Police quarters

iii. Senior staff quarters

iv. Junior staff quarters

v. Military hostels

vi. Principal Officers quarters.


179

Fig 95 . Showing the housing unit and its space relationship

4.4.6 CATERING

4.4.6.1 Functions

i. Provision spaces for meal preparation, eating and food storage.

4.4.6.2 Users

i. Cooks

ii. Cleaners

iii. All members of the camp


i. Proper ventilation and lighting

ii. Adequate consideration for fire control

iii. Close proximity to living quarters

iv. Proper design to ensure good sanitation.


Kitchen

Servery and dining hall


180

Cold and dry stores

Serving and delivery bay

Changing room for the cooks and cleaners

Slaughter house

Refuse dump

Fig 96. Showing the catering unit and its space relationship

4.4.7 CAMP CLINIC

4.4.7.1 Functions

Delivery of medical services to the camp community.


i. Proximity to hostels and training grounds

ii. Isolation from noisy areas/ activity

iii. Access to motorway is important.


Consultation room


181

Waiting area

Treatment room

Pharmacy/dispensary

Records office

Rest room

Fig 97. showing the camp clinic and it space relationship

4.4.8 EDUCATIONAL

4.4.8.1 Functions

Delivery of lectures

Co-ordination of seminar and symposium, workshops.

Drama

Cultural dance

Other ceremonial activities

4.4.8.2 Category of Users

Corp members

Lectures


182

Members of the camp community

Quest and sponsors.

Fig 98. Showing the Educational unit and its space relationship


Good lighting and ventilation

Noise control

Proximity to hostels and administration

4.4.8.4 Spaces required

Back stage with a store

Multipurpose hall

4.4.9 THE OBS (ORIENTATION BROADCASTING SERVICE)

4.4.9.1 Functions

Dissemination of information to the camp community.

Entertainment

4.4.9.2 Users

NYSC information officers


183

Corp members representatives

Individuals on site(as the case arises)


Broadcasting room

Offices

Stores and conveniences.

Fig 99. showing the OBS and its space relationship

4.4.10 GYMNASIUM

4.4.10.1 Functions

Provides facilities for physical training

Serve as a place for socialization.

4.4.10.2 Users

Corp members

Coaches

Members of camp community


Space shall be well ventilated and lighted

Should be spacious and able to house fixed equipment and still have

adequate circulation space.


184

Floors should be designed to be hard wearing, durable, resilient and

non slippery and at the same time be able to withstand impact from failing weight.


Hall for gymnasium gadgets

Consultation room

Cloaks and washroom.

Fig 100: showing the gymnasium and its space relationship

4.4.11 THE MAMMY-MARKET

4.4.11.1 Functions

As a relaxation space for corps members

As an additional eating space

Provides space for social interaction

As a language for corps members

4.4.11.2 Users

All members of the camp community

Villagers

Visitors


185


Provision of adequate spaces for cooking, preparation and storage

facilities.

Adequate provision of drainage and water supply

Link with a driveway

Adequate provision of sitting facilities

Fig 101. showing the mammy-market and its space relationship

4.4.11.4 Space Required

Sitting, eating and drinking areas.

Cooking, preparation, and storage area.

Spaces for the installation of refrigerators

Servery.

4.4.12 The Camp Court

4.4.12.1 Functions

For the trial of cases within the camp

4.4.12.2 Users


186

Corp members

Observers

Principal officers who constitute the jury

Accusers and accused


Proximity to the administration

Seclusion from noisy activities

Good ventilation and lighting is essential.


Rostrum chambers

Dock

Court hall

Chamber

Conveniences

Fig. 102 showing the camp court and its space relationship

4.4.13 Maintenance Unit /Services

4.4.13.1 Functions


187

Supply of water and electricity

General maintenance of facilities on camp

4.4.13.2 Users

NYSC technicians and cleaners

4.4.13.3 Design requirements

Link with road and drive way is very essential

Seclusion from residential and quiet areas

Proximity to water source and generator house.


Maintenance workshops(mech, elect, carpentry)

General office

Laundry spaces

Fig 103. showing the maintenance unit and its space relationship

4.4.14 Religious Units

4.4.14.1 Chapel/mosque

Mosque to face Mecca

Facilities for abolition to be provided


188

Fig 104. showing the chapel and its space relationship

Fig 105. showing the mosque and its space relationship

4.5 SPACE PROGRAMME

The following is a tabulation of the whole space programmes required for the

design:

Functional spaces, number of units, unit area(m2), total areas(m2) and remarks.

TABLE 3: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMINISTRATION

FUNCTIONAL SPACE No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

ADMINISTRATION

1. Executive Offices

Camp director 1 1 30.0 30.0 Office space

+sec +wc

Camp commandant 1 1 15.0 15.0 Office+

toilet


189

Chief inspector 1 1 15 15 ,,

Head of man O war 1 1 15 15 ,,

Asst sup. police 1 1 15 15 ,,

2.OTHER OFFICES

Asst camp commandant 1 1 12.0 12.0 12m2

Accountant 1 1 12 12 ,,

Catering office 1 1 12 12 ,,

Accommodation officer 1 1 12 12 ,,

General office 1 25 67.5 67.5 For 15 senior

staff at

3m2/staffs and

10 junior staff

at 2.5m2/staff

Accounts office 1 6 12.6 12.6 4 clerks at

2.3m2/clerk

and typist at

1.7m2/typist.

Cashier‘s office 1 2 7.5 7.5 2 cashier+

circulation +

storage

Admin officers 1 10 40.0 40.0 4m2/ person

Security office 1 35 35.0 35.0 1m2

Army staff office 1 35 35.0 35.0 ,,

FUNCTIONAL SPACE No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

Man O war 1 35 35.0 35.0 ,,

3.SPECIAL SPACES

Reception 1 50 30.0 30.0 0.6m2/person

Toilet 4 1 1.5 6.0 1 toilet for 50

persons

Storage spaces 2 90 18.0

Registration room 1 24 18.2 18.2 4 reg. officers

at 2.25m2/

officer, 20

corpers at

0.36m2/corper

Total 495.4


190

TABLE 4: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR KIT STORE

TABLE 5: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR PARADE GROUND

TABLE 5B: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR MAN O‟ WAR BAY

NYSC KIT STORE

Storage for kit 1 6.3 6.3 1.8m2 for shelf

and 4.4m2 for

storekeepers

workplace

Storage for hardware 1 94.9 94.9

Other software store

circulation

1 39.7 39.7 2190 pillows at

0.016m2/ pillow and

2190 mattresses at

0.13m2. 5% of

storage space

Delivery space 1 144.0 144.0 For bay and

turning for van

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

Supply/ reception 1 36.0 36.0

Office for store

keeper

3 1 9.0 27.0

Chief store keeper‘s

office

1 1 12.0 12.0

Waiting space 1 20 10.0 10.0 20 corpers at

5.0m2/corper.

Total 665.9

PARADE

GROUND

Drill ground 1 100+64 6,400.0 Standard size of a

football pitch

Informal sitting

area

876.0 40%of total

corpers strength at

1m2/corper

Clearance 2752.0 9.76m clearances

for 8 tracks around

the field.

Spectators

pavilion

1 645.2 645.2 For 90% camp

population at

0.2m2/person+15%

circulation

Total 1.0673.2


191

FUNCTIONAL SPACE No

of

units

No

of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

MAN O‘ WAR BAY

Rope climbing space 15+7 105.0

Assault course space 15+7 105.0

Circuit training space 15+7 105.0

Circuit/informal sitting 85.0 15% of total

bay

area+12%for

informal

sitting

Swimming pool 29+25 500.0 Standard

size

swimming

pool

Circulation/informal sitting

round the pool

250 5m from all

side of pool

Make up room 7.2

Plant room 40.0

Chlorination room 10.5

Technical room 12.0

Total 1219.7

TABLE 6A: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR HOUSING

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

HOUSING

Corpers Hostel

Bedroom 548 24.0 13.1520 4

corpers/bedroom

Lounge 657.6 Calculated at

1.2m2/bed space

Shower room 274 1.8 492.8 1 shower room/8

corpers

WC 18 1.5 328.5 1WC/10 corpers


192

Laundry space 700.8

Porters room 18 12.0 216.0

Ancillary room 876.0

circulation

Total 19,544.3

TABLE 6B: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR HOUSING

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

Army Hostel Same as for

corpers

Junior staff

quarters

Bedroom 102 12 1,224.0 1 bedroom

space/junior

staff

Toilet(wc) 26 1.5 39.0 1WC/10

staffs

Shower room 1.8 46.8 1 shower/4

bedrooms

Kitchen 312.0 1 kitchen/4

bedrooms

Laundry 85.0

Circulation 256.02

Total 1,962.8

TABLE 6C: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR HOUSING

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

Senior Staff

Quarters

Bedroom 72 2 12.0 864.0 2 per flat

Toilet(wc) 36 1.5 54.0 1 per flat

Bath 36 2.5 90.0 1 per flat

Kitchen 36 6 216.0 1 per flat

Living room 36 15 540.0 1 per flat

Circulation 264.0 15% of


193

total floor

area

Total 2.028.6

TABLE 6D: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR HOUSING

Principal

Officers

Bedroom 20 12.0 240 2

bedroom/flat

Toilet/bath 10 3.5 35 1 per flat

Kitchen 10 6.0 60 ,,

Living room 10 15.0 150.0 ,,

Circulation 72.8 15% of total

floor area

Total 557.8

TABLE 7: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR CATERING

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

CATERING

Dining hall 1 1279.0 12790 For 80% of

the total

corpers

population at

0.73m2/corper

Kitchen and

other related

services

511.6 40% dinning

hall standard

requirement

Circulation

total


194

TABLE 8: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR CLINIC

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

CAMP CLINIC

Consultation 1 14.0 14.0 For office +

examination

equipment

Pharmacy/dispensary 1 15.0 15.0

Treatment room 1 12.0 12.0

Records office 1 9.0 9.0

Recovery 1 18.0 18.0

Waiting area 1 10.0 For 3

corpers on

admission

at a time

and 6 taking

rest

Emergency room 1 10.0

WC 6 9.0

Circulation 14.6 For 20

patients at

0.5m2.

Total 111.6

TABLE 9: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR EDUCATIONAL UNITS

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

EDUCATIONAL

UNITS

Lecture

room/workshop

1 788.4 0.36m2/corper

Circulation 118.3 15%of floor

area

Multipurpose hall 1 3000 2,700.0 0.9m2/corper

Circulation 1 135.0 15% of floor

area

Auditorium 1

Seating 1 2190 1095.0 1095.0


195

Projection room 1 3.9+5.5 21.45

Preparation room 1 20.0 20.0

Foyer 8 547.5 50% of

auditorium

Stage 10 273.8 273.8 25% of

seating

Wc 1.5 12.0

Urinals 0.36 0.36


floor area

Total 6011.0

TABLE 10: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR OBS

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

OBS

Broadcasting

room

1 2 24.0 24.0 For gadgets,

records

library and

2

broadcasters

Newspaper

reading room

12.0 12.0

Office of the

pro

1 12.0 7.2

Circulation

Total 55.2

TABLE 11: SPACE REQUIREMENTS GYMNASIUM

GYMNASIUM

Central hall 15+7.7 112.5 standard

Consulting

room

9.0 9.0

Changing room 8.0 16.0 15 users at

a time

Wc

Urinary

Shower room

Circulation 22.4


196

Total 171.6

TABLE 12: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR MAMMY MARKET

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

MAMMY-

MARKET

Seating 372.0 For

17%corper at

1m2/corper(at

peak period)

Cooking space 186.0 50% of total

seating area


floor area

Total 641.7

TABLE 13: SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR CHAPEL

CHAPEL

Seating 1 1,095 766.5 0.7m2/perso

n

Circulation 114.98

Total 531.25

FUNCTIONAL

SPACE

No of

units

No of

users

Unit

area(m2)

Total

area(m2)

Remarks

MOSQUE

Prayer 1 198 149.0 0..75m2/stan

ding person

Circulation 22.35 15% of floor

area

Total 171.4

4.6 DESIGN CRITERIA


197

The following guidelines and criteria have been deduced to more effectively guide

the designer in achieving a successful design within the context of the NYSC Camp

and adaptable spaces.

4.6.1 Compatibility of proposed uses: For a successful and viable adaptable

space, the proposed uses have to be compatible to each other.

i. For instance the multipurpose hall can easily be switched from lecture hall use to

theater use for performance to skill acquisition spaces.

ii. The man o‘ war spaces and parade grounds could easily be used for corper‘s

programs, fitness courses (Plate 64) and training grounds for festivals and events in

the FCT.

iii. Hostels could easily be partitioned for private arrangements and more public

arrangements.

Plate 64: people taking part in a fitness course

Source: corbis


198

4.6.2 Conceptualization: Initial planning should ensure that the site design and

construction preserve and emphasized key element of the immediate natural

environment. It should encourage opportunities for sensing, experiencing, and/or

understanding resources incorporated into the architecture and site design.

4.6.3 Designing: Designing should aim to function within the environment rather

than separately. Thus it should be planned such that it effectively utilizes the

surrounding services provided by the environment such as; vegetative screening,

hills etc. care should be taken not to allow the environment interfere in the design.

4.6.4 Construction: Construction should incorporate both local building

materials and contemporary building materials and methods that can bring the best

aout of a camp.

4.6.5 Design of Building Units: The design of housing units should also be

according to the zoning principles. Grouping is often necessary on a large site to

secure economics in engineering services (water, electricity communication,

drainage), in access roads and paths (vehicles, access for maintenance, servicing,

luggage and other deliveries), and land utilisation. These groupings also help to

establish a sense of association and social relationship.

4.6.6 Space design and functions: Spaces and functions within the facility

should be planned to create ample opportunities for informal interaction between

staff, corpers and visitors, creating avenues for healthy interaction.

4.6.7 Driveways: Driveways shall be constructed of a pervious or semi-pervious

paver material (vertical draining) and in harmony with surrounding structures and

connecting roadways. This does not preclude concrete beneath or immediately


199

adjacent to the house. Drive ways are not permitted to enter leisure lane unless

there is absolutely no alternative.

4.6.8 Separation from outside traffic: with provisions for public transport

arrival bay and car parking for corpers and staff.

4.6.9 Waste management: Water usage and waste disposal patterns should be

considered during designing, to take advantage of natural conditions like

topography, and incorporate avenues for recycling of water and waste.


200

4.7 REFERENCES

Adeoye Anthony A., 2007, ―Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) As A

Tool For Good Governance In Nigeria‖ AAC Consulting, 299 Ikorodu Road,

Maryland Lagos. Pp1

Ikudayisi Ayodele Emmanuel, 2007, Unpublished Technical Report On Climatic

Data Of Akure For Year 1998, The Department Of Architecture School Of Post-

Graduate Studies Federal University Of Technology Akure, Ondo State Nigeria

Klaus Roland, 2008, ―Computerized Land Administration; The AGIS Approach‖,

Abuja FCT Nigeria, February 2008, pp 3

Okeke N. O. 1999, NYSC Orientation Camp Awgu, Unpublished Thesis Report,


―National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course And Service Guide‖ For 2010

Batch ‗A‘ Corps Members Deployed To The Federal Capital Territory, Published

By The Public Relations Unit, NYSC-FCT.

Ujoh F., I. D. Kwabe, O. O. Ifatimehin, 2009, ―Understanding urban sprawl in the

Federal Capital City, Abuja: Towards sustainable urbanization in Nigeria‖

Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Abuja,

Abuja, Nigeria. Federal Character Commission, Abuja, Nigeria. Department of

Geography and Planning, Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria. 23rd June 2009.

Pp 107

www.fct.gov.ng (2010)

http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Abuja

www.transparencyng.com/abuja

http://www.onlinenigeria.com/links/abujaadv.asp?blurb=388


http://www.transparencyng.com/abuja



201

CHAPTER FIVE


202

5.0 DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

Two opposing principles necessary for architecture to endure are order and

flexibility. Malofiy (1998). Order is a static condition which establishes and

maintains organization. It relates the parts to the whole and conversely, the whole

to the parts. Order provides the rules to define what something can be and more

importantly, what it cannot. Flexibility is a dynamic condition which offers

diversity. It allows a user or inhabitant to manipulate or control that which the

designer has provided (adaptability). Such a condition allows the individual to

become engaged with or a part of the architecture. However, flexibility and

adaptability can occur within an ordered system which is where the philosophy for

this design is stemmed.

An example to illustrate this theory is a housing community for university students.

Because university students typically only spend one to three years in a single

residence, a dwelling which can be adapted quickly and with little effort to

accommodate different needs is essential. In this case, movable interior partitions

are ideal for allowing students to make changes within their units. The interior can

be changed based on how the spaces are used, the time of day, season, or the

number of students or family members living in the unit(s). Order is fittingly

created by the structural system. Its static condition maintains organization and

clarity and juxtaposes itself against the dynamic nature of the interior partitions

(which provides flexibility).

5.0.1 When order meets flexibility

Considered separately, both order and flexibility languish in that which makes

them flourish. A highly ordered system alone becomes sterile while a solely


203

flexible one becomes chaotic and unpredictable. However, the prosperity of the two

depends on their coexistence. One can see how they work together as mentioned in

the earlier example in the students‘ hostel with structural system (providing order)

and partitions (providing flexibility). Also seen in 1300‘s Daikakuji Palace of

Emperor Saga Kyoto City (as mentioned in chapter 2). The ―fusuma‖ allowed the house

to change with the day and season. Their dynamic nature was sharply contrasted by

the static condition of the heavy timber posts and beams which brought order to the

whole.

According to Malofiy (1998); Steven Holl‘s concept of ―hinged space‖ gives

modern application to the versatility of the traditional Japanese fusuma sliding

panel. Light, colorful wooden walls turn on pivotal hinges, making it possible to

combine or isolate spaces according to hour, season and family make-up.

Plate 65; Robert Jupe‟s “expanding table” closed

Source: J. Roberts

Another abstract way to explain this philosophy is the 1800‘s ―expanding table‖

Robert Jupe, England where the symmetry of the round table provides order whilst

the mechanisms within it allows it to expand along the line of its order providing

flexibility in its use. Representing this is the ―Mutamut System‖ (earlier mentioned

in chapter 2) which makes it possible to easily and effectively convert a conference


204

seating area into an open space for staging an exhibition with a minimum amount

of work. Figueras (2009)

Plate 66a and 66b; expanding table‟s patent drawing (left) and the table expanded

(right)

Source: J. Roberts

Architectural philosophy cannot start with design philosophy but must constantly

address the focus. Taylor (1978). This design philosophy is an attempt to reconcile

and bring design factors into equilibrium between adaptability, multifunctionality

and order.

5.1 DESIGN CONCEPT AND SYNTHESIS

The architecture of any building structure is a complex embodiment of the various

deductions of different thought processes. It is a connection of series of thoughts,

all pointing towards a single subject. It is therefore, less complicated to address

these thoughts independently and then integrate into the design as a whole.

Architecture is at once product and process, at once attribute of things and attribute

of activity, so that we actually see, or think we see, both when we see and name

architecture. Hillier (2007). According to Edwards (2008); Design is ultimately

about solving problems. The future exists as an imaginative idea within the mind of


205

the architect. Translating this concept into a building requires drawings. The

problems to be solved are functional, technological, environmental and social.

This is seen in all the presentation and analysis of different aspects of the design

subject and the study area in the previous chapters. To comprehensively achieve all

the objectives of this project: ―Study of adaptable spaces in NYSC permanent

orientation camp‖, analysis has been broken down into principles of design of an

NYSC orientation camp, principles of the design for adaptable spaces and all

related subjects.

To help in the area of design synthesis for this dissertation is the model of scope of

architecture by M.G. Taylor on ―philosophy and practice of architecture‖, there are

five areas which are;

i. Lifestyle and use; in this case, the project will be for the activities of the

orientation programme of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and other

non-NYSC activities like fitness programmes, skill acquisition programmes and

some other training programmes. All these uses are to be incorporated into a camp

which is the primary project to be provided.

ii. The problem: the problem here is how to have all these uses in one place. It is

clear that they will have to be mutually exclusive which is where the issue of

adaptable space comes in. The efficiency of the adaptability of spaces will go a

long way in defining the success of this project. Other problems in this aspect will

be on how to produce a standard orientation camp

iii. Design solution: the design solution here is the summation of all the analysis,

conceptualization and its synthesis to make the project work. The result of this will

be a permanent orientation camp for Abuja to be located in Katampe Extension

district that can also be utilized for other purposes when the orientation programme


206

of the NYSC is not ongoing. According to Taylor (1978); the design solution is

usually controlled by the developer and/or the patron‘s preferences through

architect who is in fact the architectural designer. It's also controlled directly by

laws, rules, and principles

iv. Contract documents: not in consideration here.

v. Construction and fabrication: this concerns the final building product part of the

consideration of which is done at this stage of study to ensure its success and

completion.

Fig 106; model of scope of architecture

Source: modified from M. Taylor

―For real architecture to be produced, a comprehensive synthesis must exist

between these five areas, tying the specialties together to form a unique system,

and close the whole cycle‖. Taylor (1978, p45); but for the purpose of this study we

are mostly concerned with sectors one, four and five of the above model of scope

of architecture.


207

5.1.1 Planning concept

In order to achieve the objectives of the NYSC the training corp members in

paramilitary exercises which is supported to inculcate discipline in our youths by

instilling in them a tradition of hard work and patriotism and loyalty to the nation in

any situation they may find themselves, serious thought has been given to

formation of programmes and concept for the orientation camp.

Therefore simplicity and flexibility will compliment values (which the military

considers supreme in its doctrine – discipline, alertness, and security) in the design

concept. The design concept must therefore project, simplicity, discipline, security

and flexibility.

5.1.1.1 Grouping of Activities and zoning

Related activities shall be grouped together (see fig 107).

a. Administrative complex: this shall include the administration, NYSC kit

store, OBS office.

b. Educational facilities: the multipurpose hall, and the camp court.

c. Hostel complex: this includes the corp members hostel, the military hostels,

cafeteria, kitchen, dining hall, slaughterhouse, and gymnasium.

d. Camp centre: which include the parade ground, man O war bay, pavilion

and the mammy-market.

5.1.1.2 Zoning

Activities that serve similar functions and have similar requirements would be

zoned together (fig 31) for the proper functioning of the orientation camp, thus:

a. Zone 1: camp centre and the administration complex.


208

b. Zone 2: hostel complex, chapel and mosque.

c. Zone 3:junior and senior staff quarters.

d. Zone 4: camp village.

e. Zone 5: maintenance yard.

f. Zone 6: car park

g. Zone 7: refuse/waste disposal area

Fig 107. showing grouping of activities

Source: modified from Eremasi B. E.

5.1.2 Methods to achieve adaptable spaces

The design development for this thesis report is limited to accommodation facilities

for everybody in the camp community (hostels, residential facilities and cabins),

multipurpose hall and ancillary facilities, administrative facilities and detailed site

planning. To achieve space flexibility for these spaces, methods and approaches

from case studies and theories on adaptable spaces will be employed such as;


209

Open plan for relevant spaces with straight sided shapes

Retractable seating systems,

Partitioning for relevant spaces

Retractable roof system

5.2 DESIGN CONTRIBUTION

Apart from the satisfaction one gets from the knowledge that a space could adapt to

different needs, the same space is given more value and waste is reduced. On the

other hand, Nigeria is a developing country where constraints of budget, technical

infrastructure, management capacity and lack of resources have meant that the

provision of basic, standard and adequate infrastructures may be in short supply. It

becomes imperative that in the design such infrastructure, considerations should be

given to making it multi-use oriented and flexible in that light.

Presently, the NYSC scheme is a state-run programme that introduces indigenous

graduate youths into a one-year service of their country. Government policy

changes affects the programme in so many ways as noticed in the year 2008 when

the number deployed batches was increased from two to three. This affected the

pressure on camp facilities and schedule in the use of such facilities. In extreme

cases, the programme could be scrapped if the government through its policies

feels the programme is no longer relevant to the state. It is in such a scenario that

the study of adaptable spaces becomes very significant because the spaces could be

converted for use for other purposes.

As one of the goals of this research is to provide the NYSC scheme with the

opportunity to test new adaptable approaches to camp spaces, the importance of

such a contribution cannot be overemphasized. The data and insights collected can


210

guide the scheme toward more effective adaptable orientation camp spaces in the

future considering the fact that Nigeria is a developing country with scarce

resources to provide more facilities. The main contribution this design has to the

society is provision of spaces for certain needs and at the same time, effective

utilization of such spaces.

5.3 SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.3.1 Summary

The design process is a means to an end. It is the vehicle one uses to reach a

destination. It is driven by past experiences, the advice from others or intuition.

The thesis is a journey. For some, the destination is known before the journey even

begins. For others, the destination is found somewhere along the way. For this

thesis, lots of things were learnt in the process of study which this chapter finalizes

with the breakdown of:

The use

The problem

And the solutions.

Understanding what makes an effective design is important. With the breakdown of

the aforementioned aspects of design in this report, one can confidently summarize

a work such as this as meeting the standards for solving an architectural problem

which is adaptable space in an NYSC permanent orientation camp.

5.3.2 Conclusions

Although, NYSC permanent orientation camp, Katampe Extension, Abuja has

been put on board as an academic exercise. However, it is a realistic project that the

government could decide to execute in the future in the FCT. The study of the existing


211

situation, analysis of the case study, other materials and professionals brought the

realisation of the design. The design is expected to contain state of the art facilities that

would enhance the orientation process of the average youth corper. Locating such an

establishment in the FCT will go a long way in fostering national unity and setting the

standards for other orientation camps in the country.

Making the camp spaces adaptable for other uses on the other hand will not only

ensure availability of spaces for other activities but will save the authorities lots of tax

payers‘ money in erecting newer structures and within the context of use of space, it

creates the impression of economy.

5.3.3 Recommendations

Due to the limitations of the study, more work needs to be done in the area of:

i. Adaptable acoustics for multipurpose spaces to make adaptable spaces more

effective

ii. Space syntax for camp spaces.

iii. More research done on the area site planning for NYSC orientation camps in

Nigeria alongside proper Environmental Impact Assessments in choice of location

sites.


212

5.4 REFERENCES

Michael Malofiy, 1998, ―Order and Flexibility: Their Coexistence as Architectural



Taylor Matt, 1978, ―philosophy and practice of architecture‖, Matt Taylor Journal

pages 44, 45, December 30, 1978,

www.figueras.com (2009)

Edwards Brian, 2008, ―Understanding Architecture through Drawing‖, Second

Edition, Edinburgh School of Art, Taylor and Francis group publishing

Hillier Bill, 2007, ―Space Is the Machine: A Configurational Theory of

Architecture‖, Press Syndicate of the University Of Cambridge. Pp26

http://www.figueras.com/


213

APPENDIX I

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR PRESENT AND FORMER CORP MEMBERS

PART ONE: PERSONAL DATA

a. State of origin………......................………………………………………………

b. Town/place of origin……………………......................………………………….

c. Sex……………………………………...........................…………………………

d. Age………………………………………......................…………………………

e. Place of residence prior to service year …………..............................…………...

f. Religion…………………………………………….………….........................….

g. Service year…………………………………………….…......................………..

h. State of service…………………………………….......................……………….

PART TWO: ORIENTATION CAMP EXPERIENCE

Among other things the orientation camp was designed to provide you with

opportunities to socialize with fellow corp members and indigenes of your state of

service.

1. What facilities provided you with the opportunities to interact with fellow corp

members? ..…………………………………………………................................

2. What venue did you use for social interaction?

..............................................................................................................................

3. What were your relaxation activities on camp?

................................................................................................................................

4. What games did you engage in? ............................................................................

5. What other games would you have wanted to take part in?

(list them)………………………………................................................................

6. What aspect of the orientation really prepared you for the service year?

.................................................................................................................................

7. Suggest facilities that will increase the level of socialization in the orientation

camp? .....................................................................................................................

8. What is your general appraisal of the orientation camp programme?

...............................................................................................................................


214

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR THE PUBLIC AND NYSC OFFICIALS

PART ONE: PERSONAL DATA

i. Age....................................................................................................................

ii. Sex.....................................................................................................................

iii. Occupation........................................................................................................

iv. Organisation......................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................

v. Position in organisation (if NYSC Directorate, pls indicate)...........................

..........................................................................................................................

vi. State of the federation attached to..................................................................

PART TWO: PREFERENCES FOR A CAMP

This section samples the ideas of the public and NYSC officials on the issue of

other purposes an orientation camp should/could be used for to achieve healthy

adaptability of spaces.

1. What facilities would you suggest for an orientation camp?

.....................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................

2. (For NYSC officials) What other purposes are orientation camps presently used for

apart from orientation programmes?

.....................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................

3. What other purposes could an orientation camp be used for?

.....................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................

4. What other purposes would you suggest for an orientation camp?

.....................................................................................................................


215

Bibliography

1. Adeoye Anthony A., 2007, ―Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) As A Tool

For Good Governance In Nigeria‖ AAC Consulting, 299 Ikorodu Road, Maryland

Lagos. Pp1

2. Ag Center, Research and Extension, ―Family-friendly, Functional and Adaptable Floor

Plan‖;

3. Blakstad S. H. 2002, ―Strategies to Improve Adaptability in Office Buildings‖,

Norwegian University Of Science And Technology & SINTEF Building And

Infrastructure. Pp 34-36

4. Butin D. 2000. ―Multipurpose Spaces‖, National Clearinghouse for Educational


5. CABE, 2001, ―By Design: Better Places to Live-A Companion Guide to PPG3‖,

Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, 11 York road, London. pp

67-75

6. Country Coordinator, Earth Charter Nigeria & Youth Empowerment And Development

Initiative (YEDI), 3rd

February 2009 ‗Report of a courtesy call/introduction of the earth

charter to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Plateau State directorate‘ pp.2

7. CRS archives document, 1996, ―divisible auditoriums: a report from educational

facilities laboratories.‖ Educational Facilities Laboratories, 477 Madison Avenue,

New York, New York 10022

8. Danfulani S. A. And Aja A.(Eds) 2008, ― NYSC in its Fourth Decade: A Strategic

Policy Output For National Development‖, Spectrum Books Limited, Ibadan. Pp159-

158


216

9. Davison N., A.G. Gibb, S.A. Austin, C.I.Goodier, 2006, ―The Multispace adaptable

building concept and its extension into mass customization‖, Department of Civil and

Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, England. P. Warner,

Reid Architecture, West End House, 11 Hills Place, London.

10. Daoana C. A. 2009, ―The Beauty Of Multi-Functional Spaces‖ Article on the Art

Object.

11. Denise Amy Baxter, Meredit Martin (2010), ‗Architectural Space in Eighteenth-

Century Europe‘, Published By Ashgate Publishing, April 2010

12. Dorma , 2006, ―The Specifier‘s Guide: Movable Walls‖, March, 2006. P10

13. Drotleff H., Zhou X., 2006, ―Attractive room acoustic design for multi-purpose halls‖

14. Dutton Barbara, 2007, ―Plan Ahead and Prioritize: Get The Most Out of Multi-Purpose

Spaces‖, Workhorse Publishing LLC.

15. Feingold j. ―the Fluid Workspace: Designing For The Way‖ Asid Icon The

Magazine Of The American Society Of Interior Designers, May/June 2008

16. Fox M. A. And Yeh B. P. 2000, ―Intelligent Kinetic Systems‖, Kinetic Design Group,

Massachusetts Institute Of Technology, Department Of Architecture.

17. Freidman Avi, 2002, ―The Adaptable House: Designing Homes for Change‖, Mc-

Graw-Hill Professional

18. Gordon douglas, 2010, ―Multipurpose Spaces‖, National Clearinghouse for

Educational Facilities, 1090 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Suite 700, Washington, D.C.


217

19. Greden L. 2005. ―Flexibility in Building Design: A Real Options Approach and

Valuation Methodology to Address Risk‖. Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Pp.

16

20. Hartany Jessica, Le Angelina, 2010, ―NextGen Housing: On flexible spaces and

modularity. Pp 13

21. Hillier Bill, 2007, ―Space Is the Machine: A Configurational Theory of Architecture‖,

Press Syndicate of the University Of Cambridge. Pp19

22. Ken nedy J. 1994, ―Challenging Camp Design Guidelines‖ Pp.47

23. Kendall Stephen and Masao Ando, 2004, ―Theory and Methods in Support of

Adaptable Buildings‖ pp1

24. Kim. H. And Elnimeiri M, 2004, ―Space Efficiency In Multi-Use Tall Building‖

Illinois School Of Technology

25. Klaus Roland, 2008, ―Computerized Land Administration; The AGIS Approach‖,

Abuja FCT Nigeria, February 2008, pp 3

26. Kollie (2006), ―Moveable Walls Allow for Space Flexibility‖, the Peter Li Education

Group Publishers.

27. Korschildgen K. 2006, ―Adaptable Housing: Demographic Change and Alternative

Housing Models‖, Cologne, Germany

28. Michael Malofiy, 1998, ―Order and Flexibility: Their Coexistence as Architectural




218

29. Michael O. 2010, ―The Use of Trees to Modify Urban Micro-Climate in West Africa‖,

Article extracted from ―The Use of Tress to Modify Microclimate in Hot-Humid

Tropical West African Urban Centers‖, 1985

30. Miler N. A. 2003, ―Defining Mixed-Use Development‖, Design Center for American

Urban Landscape. Pp 3-7

31. Miller H. 2009. ―Adaptable Spaces and Their Impact on Learning‖. Research summary.

Pp 3.

32. Mumford, 1996, ―schools without walls‖. Educational Facilities Laboratories, 477

Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10022

33. Neufert E. & Neufert P. (2002), ―Neufert Architect‘s Data‖, (3rd

edition) UK;

Blackwell publishing company. P.436

34. Pultar M. 1999, ―A Structured Approach to Cultural Studies of Architectural Space‖,

Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, Bilkent University

35. Scott A. H., 2002, ―Adaptable Acoustics In Multi-Use Music Performance Spaces‖,

School of Architecture and Interior Design College of Design, Architecture, Art, and

Planning University of Cincinnati

36. Shifting Paradigms, ―Renovating the Decorated Shed: Functional Flexibility in

Architecture‖, May 15, 2008, archinect.com

37. Subsidiary Legislation: National Youth Service Corps Byelaws L.N. 34 1974

Arrangement of Sections, ―National Youth Service Corps Decree No. 51 1993 Act Cap.

N84 L.F.N. 2004‖


mailto:[email protected]


219

38. Tombari E. A. 2005, ―Smart Growth, Smart Choices Series: Mixed-Use Development‖,

National Association of Home Builders. Pp 3

39. Ujoh F., I. D. Kwabe, O. O. Ifatimehin, 2009, ―Understanding urban sprawl in the

Federal Capital City, Abuja: Towards sustainable urbanization in Nigeria‖ Department

of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria.

Federal Character Commission, Abuja, Nigeria. Department of Geography and

Planning, Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria. 23rd June 2009. Pp 107

40. Walker Andy, 2010, ―Natural Renewable Energy Technology: Natural Ventilation‖,

Whole Building Design Guide, National Institute of Building Sciences. 15th June 2010

41. Wymer T. 2010, ―Proportional Planning for the Adaptable Workplace‖, knoll inc. pp 5

Publications

42. ―Orientation Course General Policy Guidelines‖, 2004, Produced And Published By

The Planning Division, PRS Department, NYSC National Directorate Headquarters,

Abuja.

43. ―National Youth Service Corps Orientation Course And Service Guide‖ For 2010

Batch ‗A‘ Corps Members Deployed To The Federal Capital Territory, Published By

The Public Relations Unit, NYSC-FCT.

Unpublished reports

44. Eremasi B. E., 2010, ―NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Kaiama, Bayelsa State‖

Unpublished Thesis Report, Department Of Architecture University Of Nigeria, Enugu

Campus


220

45. Ikudayisi Ayodele Emmanuel, 2007, Unpublished Technical Report On Climatic Data

Of Akure For Year 1998, The Department Of Architecture School Of Post-Graduate

Studies Federal University Of Technology Akure, Ondo State Nigeria

46. Okeke N. O. 1999, NYSC Orientation Camp Awgu, Unpublished Thesis Report,


Websites

www.nysc.gov.ng (2010). Historical background of the NYSC

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/mammy_market 2010

www.princeton.edu (2010).

www.nysc.org.ng (2010).


www.opennetworkarchitecture.com



www.HeartwoodCenterandCampRetreat.com(2010)

www.Lutheransonline.com (2010).

www.fct.gov.ng (2010)


www.transparencyng.com/abuja



http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/mammy_market%202010





http://www.transparencyng.com/abuja



221


222


223


224


225


226


227


228


229


230


231


232


233


234


235


236


237


238

Documents

NYSC PERMANENT ORIENTATION CAMP, KATAMPE