Twentieth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations

Abstract

The un-curtailed wave of cultural contact and influence under the guise of modernization has influenced the interpretation of meaning and symbols in cultural spaces, vernacular entrepreneurship, and built-forms. This appears to have led to housing dissatisfaction, as seen in the alarming rate of abandonment and rare occupation especially by direct off-springs of such built-forms across southwest Nigeria. In light of this, the study adopted direct field observation, which involved interview, photography and physical assessment. The study found that the indigenous aspect more than the other two Islamic and western heritage of African architecture has been relegation to the rear. The study confirmed that, long time non-objective self-condemnation and relegation particularly of cultural spaces cum values by locals resulting from external influences part of which is religious. The ambiance, visual, and level of thermal comfortability required for work does not help matters just as well as new health standards, emergence of new urban areas, and planning requirements. The study further revealed that in most of the case studies examined, cultural spaces and built-forms were abandoned, which oftentimes led to dilapidation and collapses. The study recommends a proper understanding of first and second orders of the signification of functions and cultural meanings with mere renovation of the built-forms and multidimensional benefits including the reduction of the deficit in housing stock, the enhancement of the built environment, and the resuscitation of homegrown sustainability.