SHOPPING CENTER

CIU

Project idea

The project aims to develop a sustainable shopping center that combines passive strategies from vernacular Hausa architecture with modern contemporary design. The shopping center will utilize traditional Hausa elements like natural cooling and ventilation techniques, thick walls for thermal mass, and high ceilings, complemented by modern finishes and energy-efficient technologies such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. The design will feature cultural aesthetics through intricate geometric patterns and locally sourced materials, creating a unique and culturally rich environment. Green spaces, including rooftop gardens and landscaped courtyards, will enhance the natural beauty and improve air quality. Additionally, the shopping center will serve as a community hub, offering spaces for cultural events, local markets, and social gatherings. This fusion of traditional wisdom and contemporary innovation will result in an environmentally responsible and visually stunning retail space that sets a new standard for sustainable architecture

Project description

Shopping Center

This architectural design project incorporates passive strategies from vernacular Hausa architecture, blended seamlessly with modern contemporary design. The result is a unique and sustainable shopping center that stands out for its environmental responsibility and visual appeal. By drawing on the traditional elements of Hausa architecture, the project not only honors cultural heritage but also leverages time-tested techniques to enhance energy efficiency and comfort. The contemporary aspects ensure that the shopping center meets modern expectations for aesthetics and functionality, creating a harmonious fusion that promises to be a landmark in the architectural world.

Technical information

The building envelope will feature thick, high-mass walls constructed from locally sourced clay bricks or compressed earth blocks for natural insulation and temperature regulation. Roofs will be designed with overhangs and shading devices to minimize solar heat gain, incorporating modern materials like insulated panels and green roofing systems. Large, strategically placed windows and openings will facilitate natural ventilation, complemented by modern double-glazed units to reduce heat transfer. Passive cooling and ventilation will be achieved through the use of courtyards and strategically oriented openings to enhance cross-ventilation and reduce the need for mechanical cooling. High-mass materials will absorb heat during the day and release it at night, maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. Energy efficiency will be further enhanced with the installation of photovoltaic panels on rooftops to harness solar energy, reducing reliance on the grid, and the use of LED lighting systems with motion sensors and daylight harvesting to minimize energy consumption.