<![CDATA[This study examines the neglect of climate-responsive design principles in contemporary residential buildings in Katsina State, Nigeria, a hot semi-arid region where indoor thermal comfort is increasingly affected by modern construction practices. Traditional Hausa vernacular architecture utilized passive cooling strategies, including thick mud-brick walls, courtyards, and natural ventilation, but these approaches have been largely replaced by sandcrete blocks and corrugated metal roofing. Using a mixed-methods approach, questionnaires were administered to 33 residents and builders in Katsina metropolis. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were examined through thematic analysis. The findings show that 76% of houses use cement/sandcrete block walls, 73% use corrugated metal roofing, 60% of residents experience hot indoor conditions, and 97% depend on mechanical cooling. Additionally, 82% spend ₦5,000–₦30,000 monthly on electricity. A key finding is that 52% of builders incorrectly perceive modern houses as cooler than traditional mud-brick structures, indicating a knowledge gap. The study highlights cost and aesthetic preferences as major factors influencing climate-insensitive material choices and recommends natural ventilation, roof insulation, shading strategies, and climate-responsive guidelines for Katsina State.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
