Sustainability and Innovative Technology Strategies in High-Rise Architecture: Architects’ Awareness and Adoption in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract
Purpose: This study investigates levels of awareness and adoption of sustainability and innovative technology strategies among architects practicing in high-rise building design in Lagos, Nigeria. The aim is to determine the way these experts integrate sustainable practices and technologies as a mitigation measure for the growing need for environmentally responsive urban development.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A mixed-method approach was used in the study. 87 responses were received from the semi-structured questionnaire shared with registered architects in Lagos. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23 was used to analyse the data, using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The interpretation of the quantitative results was also supported by thematic analysis of the qualitative observations obtained from the semi-structured responses.

Findings: There is high awareness among Lagos architects of both technological and sustainable initiatives, but uneven adoption. The most widely applied are daylighting and natural ventilation, while more sophisticated strategies such as BIM, modular construction, and green roofs have lower adoption. The findings show awareness-adoption imbalance, with a need for ways to balance it to align practice with global sustainability ambitions.

Conclusion/Theoretical/Social/Practical Implications: Inadequate policies, lack of technical skill, as well as high cost are some of the main gaps to the adoption of sustainability and innovative technology strategies. To close this gap, professional development and government interventions are needed to align sustainable design strategies with SDGs 11 and 13.

Originality and value: The empirical findings and interpretation offer a basis for comparative
studies in other regions and specific frameworks to improve adoption.