Factors Influencing the Perception of Residents on Bioclimatic Design in Residential Buildings in Ilorin Metropolis

Abstract

This study investigates the factors that influence how residents perceive climate-responsive design strategies in residential buildings within Ilorin Metropolis, Nigeria. Integrating indoor environmental comfort, architectural characteristics, and socio-demographic variables, the research adopts a quantitative approach using a structured questionnaire administered across high-, medium-, and low-density residential areas. A total of 597 questionnaires were distributed, of which 484 valid responses (81 % response rate) were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests at p < 0.05. Findings reveal significant associations between residential density and several environmental perception variables, particularly temperature perception (morning and evening), night-time ventilation, air freshness, lighting conditions, and proximity to major roads. High-density areas exhibited greater heat retention, reduced night-time air movement, and lower perceived air freshness, indicating microclimatic and urban morphology effects. The overall importance ratings show that thermal comfort ranked highest with a Mean Weighted Value (MWV) of 4.1983, followed by noise level (MWV = 4.0785) and light intensity (MWV = 4.0620). Ventilation and air quality were also highly valued, whereas acoustic comfort ranked lowest, though it still remained above the neutral midpoint. The study concludes that thermal and acoustic-related factors are the dominant determinants shaping residents’ evaluation of bioclimatic design, highlighting the need for climate-responsive housing strategies tailored to urban density contexts.