Future-proofing next-g homes: Enhancing thermal comfort and building energy performance through landscape integration

Authors

  • Mark Alegbe image/svg+xml Federal Polytechnic

    Mark Alegbe is a registered Architectural Technologist with the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) and currently serves as a Principal Architectural Technologist at Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Nigeria. He holds a distinction MSc in Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability in Architecture (CRESTA) from the University of Liverpool, UK and a first-class BSc in Architecture from Ambrose Alli University, alongside earlier distinctions in Architectural Technology from Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic. His research focuses on embodied carbon assessment, building optimisation, life cycle impact analysis and sustainable construction, with several peer-reviewed publications and conference contributions advancing knowledge in these fields. Mark is skilled in energy performance modelling and life cycle analysis using tools such as DesignBuilder, EnergyPlus, and LCA platforms. He is currently expanding his expertise through postgraduate study at Liverpool John Moores University, UK, focusing on sustainable construction as a key dimension of the building lifecycle.

  • Laurence Chukwuemeka image/svg+xml Abia State University

    Laurence Chukwuemeka is an experienced Architect and Group General Manager of a leading architectural firm in Abuja, Nigeria, where he directs building and construction projects with a focus on design excellence, technical innovation and effective project delivery. He holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Architecture from the University of Nigeria (UNN) and is currently advancing his expertise as a PhD candidate in Architecture at Abia State University. With extensive professional experience, he has successfully overseen complex projects from concept through construction, integrating architectural design, planning and project management to achieve high-quality outcomes. His leadership skills are demonstrated through managing multidisciplinary teams and ensuring client satisfaction in diverse projects. Laurence’s expertise spans architectural design, building construction, project management and strategic leadership, reflecting his capacity to bridge academic knowledge with industry practice. His current doctoral research is focused on advancing architectural innovation and sustainable solutions within the built environment.

  • John Lekwauwa Kalu image/svg+xml Auchi Polytechnic

    John Lekwauwa Kalu is a Lecturer in Architectural Technology at Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State, Nigeria. He has a strong record of academic and professional contributions to the built environment. He holds a Master’s degree in Architecture from the University of Nigeria (UNN) and a certification in Flexible and Blended Education from the Commonwealth of Learning, following his bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Abia State University. With over six years of academic experience, he has undertaken significant academic leadership responsibilities, serving as Faculty Examination Officer and contributing as a committee member to the strategic expansion of the Faculty of Environmental Studies at Auchi Polytechnic. His earlier five-year practice in the construction industry further strengthened his expertise in design and project delivery. Highly proficient in Building Information Modelling (BIM), his interests lie in sustainable architecture, construction innovation and advanced pedagogical approaches. Driven by research, teaching and design, John is committed to shaping a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

  • Hammed Nasiru

    Hammed Nasiru is a PMP-certified Project Manager and Architect with expertise in architectural design and construction project management. He began his academic journey with a Higher National Diploma in Architectural Technology from Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State and went on to earn a BSc in Architecture from Bells University of Technology, Ota, Nigeria. In 2023, he received a grant from the “Architecture Is Free” Foundation to support the construction of a community school in Makoko, Lagos and is currently leading efforts to equip the school’s library through additional grant opportunities. His dedication to sustainable development was further recognised in 2025 when he was selected for the United Nations SDGs Advocate Programme (Cohort 6), focusing on SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). Passionate about climate education and community engagement, his professional interests include sustainable construction, climate-resilient architecture and socially responsive design.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47818/DRArch.2025.v6i2164

Keywords:

future buildings, future-proofing strategies, micro-landscapes, next-g tropical buildings, thermal comfort

Abstract

Buildings in the tropics are increasingly exposed to intense solar radiation and heat gains that result in extreme thermal discomfort, particularly in naturally ventilated buildings. As climate change accelerates, the Next Generation (Next-G) of housing stock must be designed and integrated with future-proofing strategies to ensure indoor livability. Micro-landscape interventions such as trees, lawns and water features have been found to cool outdoor environments through shading and evapotranspiration. While several studies have explored their role in mitigating outdoor heat stress, with a focus on reducing urban heat island (UHI) effects, the impact of landscape configurations on indoor thermal comfort remains underexplored, particularly in extreme climates. This study employs dynamic thermal modelling in DesignBuilder to investigate the role of micro-landscape elements on indoor thermal performance. A three-phase hypothetical building simulation approach was adopted: (1) without landscape features, (2) with landscape features and (3) with landscape features and mixed-mode cooling. Predicted future climate data for two climatically contrasting locations in Nigeria; Jos (cold) and Sokoto (hot), were used to assess comfort and energy performance. Findings reveal that by limiting solar incidences on the building envelope, landscape elements can reduce indoor discomfort hours by up to 18% in naturally ventilated spaces. However, mechanical cooling remains vital for achieving thermal comfort under future climate extremes. A combined strategy of vegetation and cooling achieved up to a 92% reduction in discomfort hours. Yet, this comfort improvement gave rise to an increased energy demand of up to 48% for the total building and 78% for conditioned spaces. These results highlight the capacity of integrated landscape strategies to support, but not replace, active systems in future-proofing Next-G buildings for thermal resilience.

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Published

2025-08-30

How to Cite

Alegbe, M., Chukwuemeka, L., Lekwauwa Kalu, J., & Nasiru, H. (2025). Future-proofing next-g homes: Enhancing thermal comfort and building energy performance through landscape integration. Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Planning, 6(2), 193–220. https://doi.org/10.47818/DRArch.2025.v6i2164

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Research Articles