In Oyo State, somewhere off the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, is the site for the Technical University, Ibadan, which will sit on over a million sq m of land.
Yesterday, was the first I had heard of it, and it brought joy to my heart. As you may know, Ibadan was one of the first cities of the Federation to introduce higher eduction, so its only befitting that a project of this scale be cited in West Africa’s largest city.
The Technical University, Ibadan (TechU Ibadan) is founded on the principle of unique innovation, research collaboration, exceptional service, integrity, excellence, and the uplifting of human condition. It is therefore committed to the efficient and responsible use of science, technology, engineering and innovation (SETI) in solving societal problems, while maintaining a culture of entrepreneurship anchored on quality programs that are responsive and financially sustainable.
Designed by MZ Architects (of Eko Atlantic City fame), The master plan’s concept aims to create an energy efficient city that is dynamic and interactive for both students and staff. A unifying Circle defines the layout where a plethora of functions are united in an enclosed, landscaped and shaded pedestrian zone. Everything from the faculties, the administration, the library, the research center, the auditorium and the amphitheatre are free standing volumes shifting within the grid. The master plan is strategically oriented taking into consideration natural and environmental conditions, to maximize solar energy and prevailing winds. This, in itself, had a major impact on the project: the distribution of functions, the circulation and transportation system based on the walkability index.
At the core of the campus is the administration building. Inspired by redbrick architecture, the building,which also includes the university library, features brick volumes which pop out between two suspended concrete slabs, shading the common zones, and forming nice gathering areas in between the administration volumes.
The award winning design for what will be Ibadan’s Technical university boasts a self sustaining project contributing to Nigeria’s planning development and taking into consideration the future of Sustainable architecture therein.
[via archidatum, adesignaward]
