DAR09 – Oregun Center – Public and Administrative Facilities

Project Overview

Developed during my tenure as Senior Architect at Dar Al Handasah, the Oregun Center project involved the design of a multifunctional public and administrative complex in Lagos, Nigeria. The mandate focused on enhancing local civic infrastructure through efficient space planning, sustainable architectural strategies, and urban integration adapted to the socio-climatic conditions of West Africa.

This project demonstrates expertise that aligns strongly with the needs of architectural firms in Québec, particularly in the areas of institutional design, sustainability, public-sector architecture, and complex urban environments.

Responsibilities and Expertise:

Functional Programming

1. Defined core program elements such as administrative offices, public service counters, meeting rooms, and essential support facilities.
2. Established spatial relationships to ensure clear circulation and efficient workflow.

Urban & Site Analysis

1. Conducted comprehensive studies of the Oregun urban fabric, including topography, pedestrian flows, traffic patterns, and security constraints.
2. Ensured that site access and zoning strategies supported safe and intuitive movement for the public and staff.

Architectural Concept & Space Planning

1. Developed a functional layout that organized public, semi-public, and technical areas with clarity and efficiency.
2. Proposed massing strategies that improved legibility and accessibility—an approach aligned with Québec public-sector design standards.

Zoning, Massing & Environmental Strategy

1. Designed a compact, coherent complex prioritizing natural daylight, cross-ventilation, and thermal comfort.
2. Used shaded courtyards, passive solar protection, and local materials to enhance climatic responsiveness—concepts transferable to cold-climate adaptation in Québec through the lens of performance-driven design.

Accessibility

1. Applied universal accessibility standards equivalent to Québec’s norms, integrating:
   1. Barrier-free interior routes
   2. Accessible sanitary facilities
   3. Compliant vertical circulation
2. Ensured inclusivity across all user groups.

Safety & Circulation Strategy

1. Distinguished between visitor, staff, and service circulation to maintain safety and operational efficiency.
2. Implemented passive fire protection measures and designed evacuation routes consistent with international codes.

Sustainability & Environmental Performance

1. Oriented the buildings for optimal passive energy performance.
2. Designed breathable façades, implemented rainwater management, and minimized local heat island effects—demonstrating experience highly relevant to sustainable design practices in Québec, including LEED-aligned methodologies.

Project Phases Completed

1. Functional programming
2. Urban and site analysis
3. Concept and schematic design