EKOTECTURE QUARTERLY #3 (2)

EQ FROM THE CHAIR’S DESK TABLE OF CONTENTS Dear Colleagues, From the Chair’s Desk …………………………….................................................. 1 1 Welcome to the third edition of the online magazine for NIA Lagos State Chapter- Editorial ……………………………………………………….......................................... 2 Ekotecture Quarterly! I would like to convey to all members and non-members who are regular readers of EQ our appreciation for their support and encouragement. Feedback EQ ………………………………………………………................................... 3 Also, we thank all those who have advertised in the magazine so far for their patronage and enjoin others to take advantage of this great opportunity to reach out Guest Commentary: The Architect's Responsibility to People with Disabilities: Access to our over 2,000 registered members. to Infrastructure….…………………………………………………………………………………. 4 This edition promises to be quite enlightening as the topics are diverse- touching on Archi-Lecture Series: Sustainable Architecture: A Return to Nature through both social and professional issues. It calls for an introspection of our professional Biomimicry………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5 lives and how we affect others. EQ#3 discusses concepts of responsibility and business in depth. We also continue our sojourn on sustainability in our third Archi- Brain Teaser………………………………………………………………………………………. 7 Lecture, taking a different yet intriguing approach. Based on special request and the need to draw urgent attention, our feature article is on The Old Secretariat, Marina Feature Article: The Old Secretariat: In Need of Revival ……………………………….. 8 which is in a sorry state. It promises to be quite revealing. Vox Pop: How can Architects ensure that they are paid for services rendered? ........ 14 We also acknowledge various requests from members for printed editions of EQ. The Business of Architecture: Adapting to the Changing Dynamics …………..………15 Plans for a compendium is in the pipeline but for now, each edition can be found on Architects in Non-Traditional Roles: In Search of Architects without Borders, Africa the Chapter’s website at http://nia-lagos.org/2017/reports/. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 18 Eko Sights & Feel ……………………………………………....................................... 20 Finally, I wish to take this opportunity to once again thank all members, guests and Photo Gallery of LAF 8.0 …………………………………………………………………….. 24 well-wishers for a successful LAF 8.0! Here’s hoping that the experience remains with us and is beneficial to us and the general society. Happy reading! Arc Fitzgerald Umah MNIA, RIBA Cover photo courtesy of naijabranch.com NIA Lagos State Chapter Chairman

EDITORIAL EQ was invented by an architect, it drives the message home. We now have A warm welcome to the third edition of EQ! Architecture by its nature is a creative, entertainment architects, bathroom designers, naval architects, and architects in problem-solving process. That is perhaps why our formal training usually involves politics, journalism etc. Such diversification has not been fully tapped in Nigeria but analytical thought and harnessing imagination. However this usually leaves other we will showcase the few in our new interview segment called Architects in Non- aspects of the profession largely untouched and we focus on two of these in EQ#3: Traditional Roles. Our first interview In Search of Architects without Borders, Africa Business and Social Responsibility. Interestingly, the latter was discussed extensively is with Engr. Virgile Houssou. Although a civil engineer, the interview focuses on at the recent Lagos Architects’ Forum (LAF 8.0) by keynote speakers like Prof. social responsibility and the call for architects to get involved in humanitarian Ogunsanya, Bishop Kukah, and Arc. Kunle Adeyemi who charged us, as we go in service. With our IDP situation, flood disasters and communities living in appalling search of our Golden Fleece, to spare a thought for the less privileged, the homeless conditions, there is a need for local architects to join NGOs or form their own to find and those who by virtue of being the minority or silent majority end up having limited solutions. The dearth of architects in this area is highlighted by our interviewee who influence in design and development. EQ#3 intends to bring this discourse to the fore currently works with an international NGO in Central African Republic assisting from different perspectives. ravaged communities. The World Report on Disability, published by the WHO and World Bank in 2011, We also introduce the Business of Architecture in a new mini-series, following 2 showed that about 15% of our population have at least one disability or the other. observations at our Chapter meetings, while the Vox Pop showcases a related topic: Such a significant percentage cannot be ignored if architecture is meant to be an all- How can we ensure fees are fully paid for services rendered? As design moves from inclusive problem-solving process. Do we support disability confidence? How do we hand-drafting to BIM and project management gradually becomes agile, we ask: Are reflect this in our designs especially in public buildings? Are we guilty of the clients now undervaluing the architect’s contributions? Do they need re- conciliatory ramp just to comply with HSE standards? Our guest commentator is Mr. enlightenment or do we need to re-adjust to the times? David Anyaele, Executive Director of The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD). He is an experienced Disability Policy & Legislative Advocate and will speak on behalf Our feature article is The Old Secretariat- an iconic building in our nation’s history. of the physically challenged among us. Detailed intervention is urgently required to save this listed building. Our special thanks goes to Idara Uwatt and Arc. Peju Fatuyi of Legacy for arranging the tour. This quarter’s ArchiLecture discusses Biomimetic Architecture: an interesting approach to sustainability and social responsibility which tallies with LAF 8.0’s Finally, we appreciate your overwhelming support and interest so far and invite you theme: An Architectural Autopoiesis. Simply put, it is the architectural application of to send your comments/contributions to [email protected]. Happy Reading! natural solutions to man-made problems. We thank Prof. Adebamowo for providing an abstract of his inaugural lecture on Biomimicry for this. ARC. CLAUDE OPARA mnia Chairman, Publications Committee NIA LSC & Editor EQ In the modern world, architects work in many non-traditional sectors and have created things outside their stereotypical sphere. When you realize that Scrabble

FEEDBACK EQ EQ 3 The Chairman, I must commend you on the publication of the maiden edition of the E-newsletter. The article on the Independence Building is quite informative. Perhaps you can look at the old federal secretariat which still had Lord Lugard’s table (at least when I visited in 2012) for your next issue. Although there is a saying that says do not judge a book by its cover, most times the cover depicts what is inside the book! The cover to your maiden newsletter is a very old picture of Lagos of the 1960’s. It would have been helpful if a date was stated on that picture so it can be viewed in the correct time frame. Be that as it may, well done! Personal Regards, Roti Delano | Principal DELANO ARCHITECTS | 3/5 Boyle Street | Onikan | Lagos Dear Sir, Many thanks for the excellent work that NIALSC is doing in educating its members and the wider public on current issues in architecture, particularly its relationship with the built environment. My kind regards, OJ Ebohon BA (Hons) MA (Econ.Dev) PhD (Energy & Devt.) LLM (Env. Law) MEI ISEE ASEE FRSA, Reader on Energy, Sustainability, and Development, & Director, Developing World Built & Natural Environment Research Unit, Leicester School of Architecture, De Montfort University, Leicester, LE1 9BH, England. All comments should be sent to [email protected]

GUEST COMMENTARY EQ It is worthy to note that Article 10 of the Draft African Protocol on Protection of THE ARCHITECT'S RESPONSIBILITY TO PEOPLE WITH Rights of Persons with Disabilities provides that “States/Parties shall recognize DISABILITIES: ACCESS TO INFRASTRUCTURE persons with disabilities with the right of access to physical environment, transportation, information and communications, and other facilities and services What is access to a person with disability (PWD) and to another without disability? open or provided to the public.” The Nigeria Building Code reinforces the need to The term ‘access’ is seen from different angles even amongst persons with provide access in designs to persons with disabilities. This is simply because those disabilities. To the blind, access is different from access to the physically challenged. who designed the Code were following international best practices. However, it is The same applies to the hearing impaired and the deaf. on good notice that the Code is not being put into practice when designs are made, thereby making nonsense of it. Interestingly, many studies never address the specific issues of disabilities. Many of these studies investigate general phenomena on persons with disability, nonetheless The various institutions in Nigeria, both private and public, through deliberate and 4 without any cogent reference to the challenges faced by PWDs in accessing public undeliberate actions deny PWDs access in many ways. Many of the designs that are and private institutions. For a person with disability, ACCESS is EVERYTHING. Where put out there are a function of deliberate action against persons with disabilities. there is no access, the PWD is denied the basic benefit he or she should enjoy. To This is so because persons with disabilities are not considered as relevant in the this end the subject of access to the PWD should be treated as a right and not a masterpieces designed. It must be understood that PWDs have unique needs and charity-based issue. thus must be considered in designs to cater for these needs. For building designs to capture the need of the blind or visually impaired, it should be fitted with electronic There are many international treaties which protect the rights of individuals for sound systems; for the deaf or hearing impaired it must be fitted with maps and which those documents protect. One of such universal documents that protect the directional guides, for the physically challenged, there should be ramps and lifts, etc. rights of Persons with Disability is the United Nations Convention on the Rights of particularly if the buildings are high-rise. Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), of which Nigeria is a signatory and has ratified the optional protocol; however it has not been domesticated. It is important that all stakeholders, in particular the Nigerian Institute of Architects, provide leadership in ensuring that public buildings are accessible through Another example that makes reference to PWDs in passing is the 1999 Constitution responsible and inclusive designs so that no one is left behind. Remember no one is which while touching on different aspects of human rights was quick to categorize immune from acquiring disability as disability is not a respecter of professional PWDs as one of the most vulnerable groups in Nigeria. This same Constitution background, social status or gender. recognized the civic rights of all citizens but unfortunately, PWDs are prevented from enjoying these basic rights because of conditions of physical, mental, intellectual or DAVID O. ANYAELE sensory impairments. In other words, disability translates into jural disability, a Executive Director, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) situation in which being a person with disability becomes an impediment to enjoyment of rights in the society. From the foregoing, the Nigeria constitution by its crafting discriminates against persons with disabilities in spite of Nigeria being a signatory to the UNCRPD.

ARCHILECTURE EQ lilies. While they create a spectacular space, they have nothing functionally in SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE: A RETURN TO common with lily leaves. However, the Beijing National Stadium designed in the NATURE THROUGH BIOMIMICRY shape of a giant ‘Bird’s Nest and Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe designed with inspiration from termite mounds that maintains comfortable conditions close to the Introduction equator without mechanical cooling are good examples of biomimicry. Figures 1 & 2. Historically, architects have depended on nature for inspiration for building forms and approaches to decoration. However, the lessons from nature which informed 5 many vernacular approaches to design were later abandoned for the ubiquity and convenience of fossil fuel at the advent of the ‘industrial revolution’. FIG 1: The East gate Centre Now with the reality of climate change and the compelling need for low/zero carbon design, there is an opportunity to explore the incredible effectiveness of the responses that nature brings into Architecture. The massive advantages of scientific knowledge, better tools, technology and aesthetic responsibilities unhindered by historical dogma, have given credence to the idea of relating architecture with nature, unlike the limitations in the early periods (Adejumo and Adebamowo, 2012). With lessons from nature, we are able to go beyond mitigation and adaptation approaches to environmentally Sustainable Architecture. Through these approaches, we have also reached a stage of regenerative architecture, where buildings would cease from being static consumers and become net producers of useful resources. This approach of mimicking nature and utilizing the principles that guide natural forms and systems is what can be called architectural biomimicry. It is important from an architectural perspective to make a distinction between ‘biomimicry’ and “biomorphism”. Illustrations of Biomimicry Modern Architects have used nature as a source for unconventional forms and symbolic association. For example, notable works of architecture like Eero Saarinen’s TWA building and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Johnson Wax building are both cases of biomorphism rather than biomimicry. The TWA terminal at John F. Kennedy Airport, New York, Eero Saarinen used biomorphic forms to capture the poetry of flight, while John Wax building, Frank Lloyd Wright likened the columns in the building to water

EQ 6) Nature banks on diversity. 7) Nature demands local expertise. 8) Nature curbs excesses from within. 9) Nature taps the power of limits. Approaches to Biomimicry FIG 2: The Beijing National Stadium Approaches to biomimicry as a design process typically fall into two categories: Defining a human need or design problem and looking to the ways other organisms Principles of Biomimicry or ecosystems solve this, termed here design looking to biology, or identifying a particular characteristic, behaviour or function in an organism or ecosystem and In biomimicry, we seek design inspiration from the processes, structures and forms translating that into human designs, referred to as biology influencing design. of the natural world. Flora and fauna use available resources sparingly, and are responsive to local conditions. They are also adaptive and resilient to climate and Pedersen Zari, (2007) proposes a framework for understanding the application of 6 environment. Nature displays extremely high-strength structures and forms, and biomimicry that redefines these different levels and also attempts to clarify the processes which are energy-producing, carbon-absorbing, zero waste-generating potential of biomimicry as a tool to increase regenerative capacity of the built and water-conserving. environment. By defining the kinds of biomimicry that have evolved, this framework may allow designers who wish to employ biomimicry as a methodology for improving Biomimicry is based on the principle that we could mimic the way nature work and the sustainability of the built environment to identify an effective approach to take. solves problems and then apply these solutions to architectural design and the built This framework is applicable to both approaches (design looking to biology, and environment. Benyus (1998) introduced nine principles to describe how nature biology influencing design). works and contribute to environmental sustainability. These nine principles are: The first part of the framework determines which aspect of ‘bio’ has been 1) Nature runs on sunlight. ‘mimicked’. This is referred to here as a level. Through an examination of existing biomimetic technologies it is apparent that there are three levels of mimicry; the 2) Nature uses only the energy it needs. organism, behaviour and ecosystem. The organism level refers to a specific organism like a plant or animal and may involve mimicking part of or the whole organism. The 3) Nature fits form to function. second level refers to mimicking behaviour, and may include translating an aspect of how an organism behaves, or relates to a larger context. The third level is the 4) Nature recycles everything. mimicking of whole ecosystems and the common principles that allow them to successfully function. 5) Nature rewards cooperation. Within each of these levels, a further five possible dimensions to the mimicry exist. The design may be biomimetic for example in terms of what it looks like (form), what it is made out of (material), how it is made (construction), how it works (process) or

what it is able to do (function). It is expected that some overlap between different EQ kinds of biomimicry exists and that each kind of biomimicry is not mutually exclusive. BRAIN TEASER Conclusion 1. Who is widely referred to as Father of Modernism in architecture? In relating Architecture to nature, we require a functional solution if we are to bring 2. Frank Lloyd Wright’s principle on organic architecture is based on about the transformation we desire. Therefore, biomimicry rather than biomorphism is what we need. Finally, while adopting biomimicry in Architecture, ______________. we should be careful not to be purely scientific about design. This is because 3. Who was the first Nigerian Architect? Architecture, as we know has emotional dimension which therefore should touch 4. What famous building is known for not standing up straight? the spirit, uplift the soul and celebrate the age in which it is created. 5. The opening in the pantheon is called________. 6. The annual award often termed ‘the Nobel Prize for Architecture’ is PROF. MIKE ADEBAMOWO, H.O.D. Dept. of Architecture, UNILAG _____________. REFERENCES 7. What is the appropriate term for the task of making blueprints? 8. Who is famous for these words “Less is more”? • Adejumo Tunji, Okedele 9. ____________ is one of the characteristics of Brutalism. 10. The design and production of materials, structures, and systems that Niyi and Adebamowo Mike 7 are modelled on biological entities and processes is termed as (2012):- Symbolism in the _____________. Conceptualisation of POSSIBLE ANSWERS: Biotechnology, Asymmetry, Frank Lloyd Wright, Grafting, Contemporary Yoruba City Eye, Tower Of Pisa, Guggenheim, Form and function are one, Louis Sullivan, Frank Mbanefo, Biomimicry, Aldo Rossi, Prof. Adeyemi, Sill, Pritzker, Drafting, Ludwig Central Business District Mies Van Der Rohe, Repetition Urban Design, Journal of ALFRED AGBOOLA Architecture and Urban Design Review, EPOKA University, Albama, Vol. 1, No. 2, 61-70. • Benyus J.M. (1998):- Biomimicry, Innovation Inspired by Nature, William Morrow: New York. • Pedersen Zari, M. (2007):- Biomimetics Approaches to Architecture. Toronto Sustainable Buildings Conference 07, Toronto Canada.

FEATURE ARTICLE EQ THE OLD SECRETARIAT: “The most handsome building of its kind I have yet seen in British Africa” IN NEED OF REVIVAL Dame Margerey Perham, Bristish Historian/writer of African affairs, 1931 KEY FACTS If you were thinking of the old Federal Secretariat, Ikoyi, when the name was  Location: Marina, Lagos Island mentioned you are forgiven. Not many know that this was Nigeria’s first secretariat.  Iconic value: Nigeria’s first secretariat and governor-general’s office Even fewer know that the office of the colonial governor of Lagos, and later Nigeria’s  Project Team: Public Works Department governor-general, was located here. Nowadays, it is merely referred to as the pink-  No. of floors: 2 (towers- 4) and-white building located en-route Lagos Island Maternity or more specifically: the  Site coverage: 1700sqm Ministry of Justice, Lagos Liaison Office.  Year of completion: 1895 (1906?)  Aliases: Ministry of Justice, Lagos Liaison Office When in 1960, the British Government gifted us with the Independence House (see 8  Architecture: Revivalism (Neo-Classical) EQ#1), located a few blocks away, as a befitting edifice to reflect post-war Modernism and to accommodate an increasing federal workforce, the Secretariat started losing relevance. Further expansion of federal parastatals in the ’70s necessitated the construction of a new secretariat in Ikoyi leaving the first one practically abandoned and left to decay. Ironically though, while her two successors are now suffering the same fate, the Old Secretariat is the only one still occupied albeit barely. It is also one of the three remaining listed buildings in Lagos. To some, the Old Secretariat might not be too striking but since appreciation of architecture, like art, should be both intuitive and cognitive, one must take into context its influences to fully appreciate it. For example, it would be foolhardy to compare the Pompidou Centre to the Parthenon because their influences vary greatly. Therefore, a good appreciation of the Old Secretariat can only be achieved with a better grasp of the historical and social climate at the time. HISTORICAL & SOCIAL PERSPECTIVES It is the nineteenth century: Revivalism is trending; old styles are being revived and made ‘hip’ again. Neo-Classicism, which started it all a century earlier with the amazing discovery of the Roman city of Pompeii, had whet everyone’s appetite for anything Roman architecture. Now it has given birth to other movements such as Neo-Greek, Neo-Gothic, Neo-Norman, Neo-Byzantine etc. It was a sign of sophistication in the Age of Enlightenment and to have anything else implied

EQ ignorance. People were tired of Baroque: both the Roman style (what we call Brazilian architecture here) and the French style (Sierra Leonean/Creole architecture). Revival architecture, sometimes dubbed colonial architecture by former colonies, was now the language of the British. Lagos became a British colony in 1862 right in the heat of Neo-Classicism and Revival. The Old Secretariat was considered its signature building. Site of the Old Secretariat showing former buildings of the Colonial house with the ‘new’ building indicated by a broken line. 1)Government Printers 7)Outhouse 2)Attorney General’s Quarters 8)Stables 3)Chief Justice’s Quarters 9)Rifle Store 4)Colonial Secretary Office & Quarters 10)WAAF Quarters & Office 9 5)Interior Office 11)Boat shed 6)Officers’ Quarters Finished at about the same time the Governor’s Lodge (now known as State House, Marina) was completed, the Secretariat was considered the most fashionable building in Lagos at the time. It was located on prime property flanked in front by the Marina- a posh lagoon front in the British section of Lagos, Broad Street behind, Joseph Street and Brooke Street on the left and right respectively. The site of the Old Secretariat had housed various government buildings prior to its construction. Now, it only hosts the Government Printers (1894) and the Old Secretariat extension (post-World War II). Floor Plan (West Wing)

LET’S TAKE A TOUR EQ When you pass through the gates of this imposing property, you will observe that THE TOWERS you are flanked on both sides by security posts looking like Roman temples. Each Right at the centre of the building are the most prominent features of the Old post has a portico with perfect Tuscan columns- three on each corner. Above the Secretariat: its two towers- each with a distinct cupola and a weather vane (the left columns is a simple entablature forming a ring-beam around the building. In typical one bent). Unlike the rest of the building which is unapologetically Neo-Classical, Neo-Classical fashion, there is a pediment above this band with a slated roof to these domes give a brief nod to the Neo-Byzantine school as well. Below each cupola crown it all. The portico made good sunshade for the guards while their is an octagonal sentry post with arched openings on each face to give the guards a accommodation was behind the portico. If you were ever in doubt of the style you 360° view of the town. The intermediate section of the tower has four cardinal faces were going to meet, it is made obvious from the gates. with three Ionic pilasters adorning each corner. The right tower has a town clock on each face with inscriptions in Roman numerals. They no longer work. The third and lowest section is one-storey high. It has windows on the first floor and a keystoned archway on the ground opening to the drop-off porch. Security post 10 A friendly dog named Justice met us at the gates and made a delightful deputy tour- Tower guide and escort. The Old Secretariat lay ahead right behind an overgrown front courtyard. Shaped like an ‘E’ on plan, the building is believed to have been designed in honour of Sir Walter Egerton, Lord Lugard’s predecessor, governor of the Southern Protectorate and last governor of Lagos colony. Now this would be improbable if the building was completed in 1895 as some researchers suggest because Egerton arrived in 1903. Some references however give the building a 1906 date. Regardless of the concept, the building’s layout was well-planned to optimize the tropical climate and the cool lagoon breeze.

EQ RECEPTION HALL & GOVERNOR-GENERAL’S OFFICE The two towers flank the main entrance porch which opens into a double volume reception hall with two rows of towering, unfluted ‘modern Ionic’ columns. These columns define the path to the grand staircase at the rear. From the first landing, the stair divides into two and diverges Baroque-style up to the Governor-General’s office directly above the reception. The office is quite large and was flanked on the east and west by two loggias. Presently, these loggias have been boarded up and louvres installed for more storage space within. Though we had no access into the office, it is said that Lord Lugard’s desk is still there. If so, it should be a century old by now. Such an antique should be kept in a museum. Governor-general’s office Rows of offices, on two separate floors, sprawl out from left and right of the central 11 reception. There is a loggia on either side of these offices, allowing for cross- ventilation through the generous office fenestration and for easy circulation of air along the passages. These loggias have timber ceilings with square vents which, along with the dormer windows on the roof, help ventilate the roof and rooms by stack effect. Loggias were quite fashionable in those days. Timber corbels along the eaves hold the roof down to ensure adequate cover from the elements. Reception Hall THE OFFICES & LOGGIAS The Secretariat was built with imported bricks each stamped with a broad arrow i.e. symbol of the Quartermaster General of Britain. This was used to confirm all British Government property. You can still find a few bricks whose arrows have not been completely painted over with pink emulsion. Loggia

The Secretariat was a highly tropicalized, efficient, Neo-Classical building. Save for EQ the modern Ionic order used on the towers and in the reception hall, the building CURRENT STATUS basically employs the Tuscan order for its columns, semi-columns and pilasters. This The Old Secretariat is in a sorry state of disrepair. The timber floors and ceilings are appears deliberate since it was considered a strong order and suitable to fortified rotting away. In some sections, they have been replaced with concrete floors for places like the Secretariat. The use of Ionic as a complement was also apt as both safety. The extension facing Brooke Street, where the casket shops are located, is orders follow the same ratios and overall proportions. cold and dead with the timber decking looking like it could cave in at any minute. There are also timber out-buildings within the courtyard and most especially the former National Archives on Broad Street directly behind it which is totally dilapidated and in need of urgent attention. Another building of almost equal status, and connected to the Old Secretariat via a corridor, is the Government Printers building at the junction between Joseph Street and Broad Street. Both linked in fate, it is of similar architectural style and beauty but is now abandoned and decaying; a pathetic story for another day. The only structure within the premises that seems to have fared well under the circumstances is the Old Secretariat extension currently occupied by Seaview Properties. The other buildings have simply fallen into ruin as evident in the pictures below. Courtyard 12 From the anti-slip timber treads on the side stairs to the ornate finials on every newel, everything was thought out to the minutest detail. So much so that the architects of this perfect blend of Neo-Classical beauty and tropical utility would probably roll in their graves if they could see it now. Vent in worn-out ceiling Dilapidation of facilities Newel Anti-slip strips on tread

EQ daunting however. Others suggest a school or an institute. The large windows and wide corridors would be ideal for natural lighting, circulation and ventilation. Together with the Government Printers building, the complex could be an impressive facility. There was a time Goethe Institute indicated interest in taking over the building but they eventually settled for Lagos City Hall instead- another historical landmark. Dilapidated toilets Link to Government Printers The possibilities with the Old Secretariat complex are endless. As the building is a major part of our collective, a national legacy with huge tourism potentials, it should CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS not be allowed to decay. The present arrangement gives one little confidence of a While designation as a listed building puts a caveat on its demolition or any drastic turn-around in affairs. There is need then to try and influence policies to unapproved alteration, it does not guarantee the Secretariat’s maintenance and ensure that this emblem of Nigeria’s Revivalist Movement is revived before it slowly preservation as deserving of the historical monument that it is. The Ministry of fades away! Justice and her tenants can afford to operate with minimal maintenance cost at the Secretariat as they are not exactly customer-facing but this also raises the question ARC. CLAUDE OPARA mnia of occupant suitability. In reality, this Old Secretariat, with its rich 122-year history, should be open to the public as with the White House and similar historical buildings 13 around the world- even if regulated somewhat. The current occupant deals with confidential and sensitive material and naturally will not be disposed to running an open-door policy to tourists. Nevertheless, it is from such tourism that the maintenance expenses for the Old Secretariat can realistically be covered among other benefits. There have been quite a number of useful proposals to date. One was from Prof. REFERENCES Filming Colonial Lagos life.guardian.ng 2016/05; Building Lagos, John Godwin (OBE) who suggested relocating the Judiciary to Independence House Kunle Akinsemoyin & Alan Vaughan-Richards (nearer the High Court) and converting the Old Secretariat to the new Lagos Museum. It seems that there already is another plan for this museum. Some have also proposed converting it into a quaint hotel, social club or hospitality centre. Achieving privacy in the hotel suites with a loggia running on either side might prove

VOX POP EQ convinced about. There has to be some form of technicalities in your submission that HOW CAN ARCHITECTS ENSURE THAT THEY ARE PAID is beyond just ordinary lines. AKINYEMI OLALEKAN (MNIA) Co-founder, Print my FOR SERVICES RENDERED? drawing NIA can protect you on the conditions that you are a registered and financial member Clients have to be made aware of the importance of paying architect's fees for and your activities are in line with the Institute’s codes. Architect’s duty is to close services satisfactorily rendered and the architects should ensure they add value to out on their projects. If you close out, a sensible client will pay. If your client refuses the project with services rendered. From my experience, clients would not hesitate to sign an agreement, do nothing further. HASSAN CORTEX ANIFOWOSE (MNIA) to pay for services as long as they feel it adds value to their project. Agreed, fees M.D. Chronos Studeos & Co-founder, Print my drawing should be broken down at the project inception and tied to deliverables in order to enlighten the clients on the expectations. Architects should also not proceed to the Be registered to be relevant and chances of being protected will be high. Get a next deliverable without payment for outstanding deliverables satisfactorily lawyer, put terms to writing and make endorsement. DADI DINDUL (ANIA) completed by the client. LATEEF BALOGUN (MNIA) Partner- FMA Architects freelance architect I believe we Architects will 14 Collect a percentage of the amount charged before you begin to work, then give get paid if they I. Provide them the finished product in a form they can’t use just to show them you have services that match clients finished, after you collect your balance, you send the real thing. TEMIDAYO desire and aspirations 2. DIADEM ADEGOKE (Graduate member, NIA) Prepare and get the client to sign an Architectural service 1) Ensure value is displayed when engaging clients, it's a value adding service, and agreement in line with therefore, a reputable client will intuitively pay when value is delivered. 2) Work agreed scale of fees. This with reputable clients who are concerned about their image. 3) Be professional. All agreement may contain a documents should follow industry standards. Communicate by engaging clients on section that emphasizes areas of possible misunderstanding and conflict before full commitment to work. additional services (which we EMMANUEL ATUBU (MNIA) M.D. Emmanuel Atubu Associates already provide) like interior designs and kitchen designs, First educate your client on services to be rendered and bring out milestone key but well-packaged as points and deliverables. Secondly ensure a contract is signed. Thirdly, and most incentives to encourage the especially, deliver on time and quality. YINKA OGUNDAIRO (MNIA) Executive client to part with his money Director ACCL and have the fulfilment of value addition. EMEKA I believe Architects need to offer standard professional services to clients to ensure ADIGWE, Bootsbymetal their fees are paid. You cannot ask a client to pay for a service he/she is not

THE BUSINESS OF ARCHITECTURE EQ “Okay, let’s get back to my lecture: PPE brings it all home. You may not realize it but ARCHITECTS AND THE CHANGING DYNAMICS right now you are a bundle of ideas, talent and creativity. My job now is to teach you how to go out there and succeed as a professional and leader of thought in the built Dateline July 16, 1991… environment…” “Settle down, everyone! We are running behind schedule for the class,” remarked To most architects in Nigeria, this brief fictional scenario more or less captures the Professor Datez as he rushed into the seminar room at the University’s Architecture tone of our PPE classes mostly at M.Sc II levels where we were taught Department. professionalism, ethics, types of business partnerships, and the typical structure of an architect’s office and fundamentals of office and project management. “As I outlined in our inaugural class, the course Professional Practice & Ethics is essentially to prepare you for the real world you shall meet in the next 12 months.” “You’ll agree with me that the last 5 years have been pretty intense and 15 comprehensive; from Basic Design through Construction Methods modules, Structures I, II & III, History of Architecture, Theory of the Creative Process… you name it.” “By the way,” turning to Dotun the irrepressible yet extremely creative top-student THEN… NOW… in the B.Sc Class of 1990, “you tell me what has been your most memorable module through the years.” Dateline January 16, 2016… “Would you believe Structures I & II, sir?” Dotun replied with a mischievous grin on Arc. Dotun Mac-Richards (mnia) is just coming out of a major meeting with his staff his face. and a guest consultant and for the first time it’s dawned on him that the entire business landscape literally turned full circle over the years while he merely adapted “Traitor!!!” screamed Ekene, Kemi & Ucha almost in unison with a look of year-on-year without any conscious attempt at business strategy and growth. While consternation on their faces. “How dare you bring back those tortuous memories,” military rule in the 1990s allowed for some level of subjectivity in decision-making Ucha added, sending the class into a bout of laughter. and key relationships with administrators and their networks could guarantee major consultancy or construction jobs. The shift to global democratic ethos in 1999, “Hey, guys, calm down,” Prof. Datez quipped. “It really wasn’t that bad. You all persistent demands for accountability and transparency, the Public Procurement Act survived, didn’t you?” he added, quite amused at the outburst. in Nigeria and similar statutes all changed the dynamics.

EQ With the resurgence of the upwardly mobile middle class, the rise of malls as major Conclusion commercial hubs, the expansion of the Lekki Corridor, Mowe-Ofada, Ikorodu and similar axis around Lagos threw up remarkable opportunities for mortgage financing Putting this fictional scenario into context, architects need to come to terms with and by extension real estate development. The boom in oil prices and internally fundamental truths and practices about today’s business world in order to compete generated revenues (IGR) particularly in Lagos also ensured the wheels of effectively: government kept running. All this was good for business from the years 2000 through 2008 and to some extent 2012 through 2014. 1. In the real world, payments for our services are in the hands of clients and 16 investors and not fellow architects. We therefore need to re-jig our Suddenly oil prices crash again, the economy begins to slide into recession and the perceptions and connect with their own estimation of value. architect is at risk of a mid-career crisis. The recurrent buzzword becomes “the budget has not been passed” or “no cash-backing yet to pay contractors”. As cash 2. Furthermore, the business of architectural practice needs to be structured flows of individual clients also become challenged, they tend to abandon projects with processes that guarantee: mid-stream even where the architect has gone ahead to deliver in good faith.  A continuous inflow of briefs both from the average mass-market clients right up to the higher-end corporate entities where available. The question is - Was it the inevitable result of an economic downturn or a failure  Incentives that drive staff commitment towards attracting business. of business strategy?  Cost-effective project management (cutting out wastes)  Periodic performance reviews to track actual business growth and Let’s step back a bit and see what really went wrong, using a few posers below: possible income leakages  Investments in liquid (easily convertible) assets– shares, treasury bills,  Looking at his sets of drawings, 3D models and all the efforts that went into commercial papers, that enhance prudent cash management for short- them, it is justifiable to expect commensurate fees. However this creative term needs or emergencies piece is most times the real starting point for serious economic  Investments in long-term assets such as land, machinery and similar considerations by an investor or client who still sees it as a mere proposal. equipment that can also generate income over their useful lives  For architects, the typical Cash Conversion Cycle (from concept and delivery 3. Business Strategy – Architectural firms need to stay up to date with broader of the designs right to actual payment) is heavily dependent on the economic realities so as to quickly identify profitable economic sectors or customer’s cash flow or sentiments about the project which could swing depending on circumstances  Moreover, most small or mid-sized firms tend to draw extensively on the combined man-hours of the firm to deliver major projects from concepts through Stages I or II and they may find it difficult to devote this kind of energy to multiple projects concurrently.  On the other hand, a typical multinational or conglomerate can roll out multiple products concurrently thereby spreading its risk regarding revenue inflows.

locations, opportunities and possible threats from state and federal laws EQ that could impact business and should price their services to reflect such 17 realities. 4. Professional Indemnity: Since unexpected fines from regulators can easily erode profit, architects must spare no effort in putting put in place relevant insurance covers as well as addressing tax liabilities, labour laws and similar basic statutes. Firms must also ensure that contracts and communication with clients are legally enforceable. While it doesn’t make business sense to merely create multiple departments in the firm, the key issue is to adopt these essential business practices even if it means engaging external professionals to provide required inputs at specific times in the year. As architects, we are trained to be thought leaders with our eyes constantly on the big picture. Therefore the task before us now is simply to take this core competence to the market place, properly communicate our potential services in a manner that resonates value in the eyes of the investing public and then negotiate strong and professionally for any level of service desired. We’ve got what it takes and we can do it… WILLIAM O. UKO REFERENCES Strategic Thinking in Business Organizations – By Olufemi Dinah LLM, FCA © 2013; Professional Practice 101; Business Strategies & Case Studies In Architecture – by Andrew Pressman FAIA © 2006; Negotiation (The Brian Tracy Success Library) – by Brian Tracy © 2013

ARCHITECTS IN NON-TRADITIONAL EQ ROLES included activities like house reconstruction, community sensitization, hygiene promotion, gutter construction and cash for works which enable us to involve the community in the reconstruction works of their areas. IN SEARCH OF ARCHITECTS WITHOUT BORDERS, Your job sounds a bit like Medecins sans Frontiers (‘Doctors without borders’). Are AFRICA - An Interview with Engr. Virgile Houssou there any architects involved in these projects? Exactly, like MSF. I do work with some architects, engineers, technicians and all the useful profile for a project. But they are not fixed staff like in the private sector. The designs of the houses we are reconstructing are not so complicated so that the architect ge77nerally ends up as a site supervisor after the conception of the plans and sketch. Architects are numerous in NGOs, there is also an NGO called Architectes sans frontiers (Architects without borders) which is a network of architects promoting social and equitable architecture around the globe. 18 Good day, sir. Please tell us a bit about yourself. My name is Virgile Houssou; I am civil engineer from Republic of Benin with 14 years’ experience in Construction Management with different international companies and NGOs. Where do you work? Are the staff foreign or local? I am currently working with an international French NGO which specializes in health, I work with local staff. The project managers are foreigners who work with local agriculture, camp management, sensitization programs, WASH, and ‘cash for works’ engineers or architects, technicians, community mobilizers etc. In general, two activities around the world and especially in countries in crisis and in emergency foreign staff don’t handle the same project in these NGO projects. environments. How much do you rely on the architect during any of your construction projects? Your work is commendable. Can you give us examples of some projects you have Most of the time architects are involved at the preparation stage and the beginning handled with them? of the project. Also, they generally act as site supervisors and this helps them to get So far I have handled 3 projects of reconstruction and renovation works with this longer contracts. NGO for internally displaced people in Central Africa Republic; the 3 projects

Would it not be advisable to always have African architects involved in these crisis- EQ driven projects being more familiar with the terrain, local materials and cheaper Is there any room for local architects in NGOs such as yours? Or do you advocate ways of construction? for regional architects to come up with NGOs of their own to help in their The humanitarian world is wide open and competitive. It admits all kinds of communities? What are the merits of each? competencies whether from Asia, America, or Africa. Also, when the environment is There is no specific room reserved for architects in NGOs, but African architects can tough and insecure, people are afraid to apply for the required positions so NGOs be inspired by Architectes sans frontiers, advertise themselves and look for financing usually make do with who is available- regardless of nationality. to set up projects in order to help vulnerable communities. How many similar NGOs have you worked for in Africa? Were there African Typically what is the end-game for such projects and how do you evaluate success? architects involved in any of them? I have some appreciation evaluation tools that the beneficiaries usually fill to give I worked with three similar NGOs but I didn’t meet too many African architects, I their impression of our works. It is only the results of such feedback evaluation made think most of the architects of the continent are not aware that there is a need for at the end of each project that gives a real appreciation of the work. their competencies in NGOs. Against the backdrop of your experience, what advice do you have for architects 19 What is usually the response of the local populace to these projects? wishing to contribute to society in such non-traditional roles? The population in crisis countries really appreciates NGO works because they provide My main advice would be that architects especially African architects should quick assistance and relief that they couldn’t get from their government which is organize themselves, make themselves known to the humanitarian agencies so as to more concentrated with security issues show their interest in humanitarian projects and not focus only on middle- class projects in normal environments. There is a lot to do with the vulnerable class especially after cities and countries have been destroyed by war and have to be rebuilt with standards and efficiency. Engr. Houssou in the last 4 years has implemented projects in crisis and epidemic environments for internally displaced people and for vulnerable communities with international NGOs around Africa. He is currently in the Central African Republic. He finds his work quite fulfilling and plans to run his own NGO in the near future. We have IDPs in Nigeria and other humanitarian challenges. How would you advise local architects and others in the industry who are interested to get involved? The best way is to get information from recruitment websites and apply regularly to job vacancies, because these NGOs rarely seek recourse to or commission individual consultants or consulting firms.

EKO SIGHTS & FEEL PROPERTIES: EQ MATERIAL FOCUS: WOOD PLASTIC COMPOSITE (WPC) 1. High strength to POOL-SIDE APPLICATIONS weight ratio BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF MATERIAL: Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) as the name 20 implies is manufactured from a unique combination of recycled ground hardwood, 2. Fire Resistance recycled high density polyethylene polymers, and specifically engineered additives 3. Weather resistant harnessed together with high performance coupling agents to create a composite 4. Rot, splinter, warp timber. resistant USE & APPLICATION: Product is suitable for both external domestic applications 5. Water resistant such as exterior cladding and decking, to the most demanding external commercial 6. Natural Wood Look applications such as louvre screening, boundary fencing, balustrading, pergolas, 7. Concealed Fixings decking of poolside, terraces, verandas, rooftops etc. 8. UV colour stable 9. Grooved boards FORM OF USE: (Decking) ADVANTAGES: 1. Aesthetically Cladding Pleasing - wood FORM finish PANELS – WIDTH (mm) LENGTH (mm) THICKNESS (mm) 2. Easy handling Min 150 3600 21 3. No painting, staining Max 250 3600 21 or treating 4. Slip resistant (Decking) 5. Mould / Water Decking Resistant FORM 6. Eco Friendly PANELS – WIDTH (mm) LENGTH (mm) THICKNESS (mm) 7. Colour Stable Min 146 3660 22 8. Only requires Max 295 3660 30 standard tools 9. 10-year warranty 10. Looks good through lifespan

EQ DISADVANTAGES: 1. The polymer component is vulnerable to UV degradation. 2. The inclusion of plastic as a portion of the composite results in the potential for higher fire hazards in WPCs as compared with wood. COST (N): Based on Stock availability 1. Deck 225 - 31,500.50 per sqm 2. Deck 295 - 31,720.14 per sqm 3. Cladding 150 - 19,529.51 per sqm PROJECT FOCUS: WINGS (OANDO TOWERS) 21 Architect: Stauch Vorster Architects International (SA) Local Collaborating Architect: James Cubitt Architects Main Contractor: Cappa & D’Alberto Plc Oando Wings Office Towers on Victoria Island has its own private jetty on the Five Floor-to-ceiling height is 2.55 metres. 90% of the floor plan conforms to a 1.2m Cowrie Creek waterway. The upgraded four-lane Ozumba Mbadiwe Road provides planning module, with up to four tenancies per floor. There is 90% floor-to-ceiling primary road access. As the first true investment-grade office project in Nigeria, the glazing across 75% of the building’s perimeter and on the primary north/south Towers combine superior design with optimal energy efficiency. orientation. A public lobby gathers all street, creek and parking level traffic, clearly separating the VERTICAL TRANSPORT buildings and directing users to each tower’s secure reception area. A ground-floor The building is served by a single bank of three passenger lifts operating in sync with restaurant leads onto a landscaped terrace overlooking Five Cowrie Creek. The the emergency lift which is programmed to operate as a fourth passenger lift or a towers offer 27,000m² leasable office space across 12 floors. 700 parking bays below fire lift, opening onto the fire lobby located at the rear of the lift in a fire emergency. the complex offer three bays per 100m² leasable space - the most generous provision A pair of shuttle lifts service parking levels and integrate parking with ground floor in Nigeria. security. The identical towers combine security with convenience. Interiors are simple and elegant. Occupants on a typical office floor sit within 12 metres of natural light.

PARKING EQ 700 parking spaces (twelve disabled), are provided at basement level, ground level  Electrical power generation plant serving the base building areas and generating and podium parking levels. All accessed by a separate set of shuttle lifts, transporting users to the ground level in order to integrate with the security lobbies of each office spare electricity. tower. SUMMARY SPECIFICATION CLADDING The principal external cladding system comprises a double glazed factory GRID preassembled system installed as a series of unitised floor to floor panels stacked 8400mm Structural Grid. vertically and fixed to concrete slabs. CEILING BMS & AUTOMATIC CONTROLS 2500mm Floor to Ceiling Clearance. The Automatic Controls and Building Management System is a micro-processor based system. POPULATION Core Design Occupancy 1:10 m². ACCESS Occupants and their clients will be provided with exclusive entry and exit routes, POWER making access into the building convenient and elegant. The entrance lobby will be Electrical power is provided to the accessed off the Porte Cochere, to provide an area for occupants and clients to alight building at 11kV and up to 3.5MVA. from their vehicles and enter the building. The design of the Porte Cochere and entrance is geared towards creating a visually pleasing and functional operating BACKUP POWER 22 entrance. The generator sizes and setup are as LANDSCAPING The northern edge of the site overlooking Five Cowrie Creek has been landscaped to follows: provide a pleasant and inviting arrival for those accessing the site off water, while  Tower 1, Basement and providing a fruitful environment and outlook to the planned retail ground floor spaces. Ground Floor: SUSTAINABLE MEASURES ADOPTED 2 x 1000kVA Generators.  External cladding designed to limit direct solar gain by using high performance  Tower 2 and Parkade: glazing with a ceramic frit solution aimed at controlling glare. AIR CONDITIONING A de-centralised Variable-Air-Volume (VAV) air-conditioning system with air- cooled chillers is to be provided PARKING/DRIVERS LOUNGES Lounges are provided at all parking levels for waiting drivers.  Four separate facilities with WC, urinal and basins are provided with two facilities servicing each split level deck in the series of 3 split level parking complexes In total 12 separate ablution facilities to the whole parking

EQ  Intelligent Building Management System, monitoring all vital operational PHOTO GALLERY LAF 8.0 functions.  High efficiency air-cooled chillers.  Water consumption/conservation via sanitary supply restricters, selectors and shut-off valves.  Wet Services Management System for soil and water wastes. 23

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EQ 25 Publications Committee/ Editorial Team Claude Opara (Editor) William Uko (Asst. Editor) Alfred Agboola Belinda Atiyio Chiamaka Osigwe Sunday Kuti Michael Fatoye Chukwudi Osakwe Femi Olaiya