Evaluating the Architectural Challenges Affecting Public Housing Delivery in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
*Dimkpa, K1; and Abraham, P1
Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Science, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Correspondence: chidimma.azike@ust.edu.ng, kelechukwu.dimkpa@ust.edu.ng
LICFES 2025-022 – FP3
Abstract
This study investigated the architectural challenges affecting public housing delivery and their impact on residents' satisfaction in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The research aimed to examine the relationships between socio-demographic variables, building attributes, residential environment attributes, and the family life cycle stage with housing satisfaction. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study utilized a descriptive and correlational quantitative design with a sample of 120 residents from selected public housing estates, and a qualitative case study design involving semi-structured interviews with 16 residents and government stakeholders. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (correlation and regression), while qualitative data underwent thematic content analysis. Findings revealed that marital status, age, income level, number of occupants, building attributes, and residential environment significantly correlated with housing satisfaction. Specifically, better-rated building and environmental attributes were associated with higher satisfaction, while policy and allocation processes were major sources of dissatisfaction. The study concludes that enhancing building design, improving residential environments, ensuring equitable housing policies, and considering socio-demographic variations are crucial for improving public housing delivery and resident satisfaction in Port Harcourt. Recommendations include policy reforms focusing on resident involvement in design and allocation, and improved maintenance mechanisms.
Keywords: Public Housing, Housing Satisfaction, Architectural Challenges, Socio-demographics, Residential Environment, Nigeria.
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