Indoor Space Optimization through Sustainable Roof Design in Residential Buildings in Rivers State, Nigeria
The optimal comfort of occupants in residential buildings within the indoor space is also a function of the physical state of the entire roof. In recent times, the progressive roof decay pattern among residential buildings in Port Harcourt Municipality has raised considerable concerns about the state of indoor spaces, the health of occupants, and the overall impact on space utilisation. This study therefore aimed at assessing how roof decay impacts the indoor space and the end-users in Port Harcourt Municipality. The study adopted a mixed-methods research approach, using a cross-sectional survey research design. The study employed purposive and simple random sampling techniques to select three (3) neighbourhoods (Abuloma, Elekahia and Mgbundungwu) and respondents for the collection of data, with a total of 361 respondents sampled. Structured interviews and questionnaires, along with key informant methods, were used to collect data from respondents, including building occupants, MHDAs, and professionals in the built environment. Checklists, physical observations, and photographs were also used to characterise the roofing condition of residential buildings in the study area. The following are the findings of the study: the poor design, construction pattern of roofs, choice of materials and maintenance culture are the significant factors exacerbating roof decay in the study area; such consequence had resulted to high moisture and dampness, reduction in the usable space, difficulties in operating building components especially doors and windows, and complete reduction in the overall satisfaction of the indoor space by the occupants. It was concluded that professionals in the built environment should consider the tropical climate of the study area as a guide to both the design approach for the roof in this climate and the choice of indoor materials, as well as the size of openings and the amount of light and ventilation required in the study area. The following recommendations are made, roof pattern of residential buildings should be compactable with the peculiar tropical climate, durable indoor materials that is compactable with the climate and regular and timely maintenance should be carried out on both the roof and the indoor spaces, adequate lighten and ventilation should be provided through passively design approach to aid eliminate high moisture content within the indoor spaces.
Keywords: Indoor space, Roof, Roof decay, Optimisation, Port Harcourt municipality
