Evaluation of facades of palaces in Abeokuta, Ogun State

Abstract

The drive of the study was to evaluate the façade of selected palaces in Abeokuta, Ogun State to understand the extent of the reflection of indigenous heritage on palaces in Yoruba land. The specific objectives of the study were to; assess the architectural characteristics; examine the materials used to construct the facades of this palaces; examine the technologies used to construct these facades; and evaluate respondents’ perception and understanding of the façade of the palaces studied. The mixed method was adopted. A case study research strategy using an observation schedule as the research instrument for the visual survey was used to obtain information on the architectural characteristics, materials, and technology used for the façade of assessed palaces. An opinion survey was employed using a questionnaire as the research instrument to solicit information on the perception of the respondents. The sample size for the study was 352 respondents. The study revealed that natural stone, concrete, ceramics, glass, metals, and paints were the materials used to construct and finish the façade of palaces in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The study also indicated that closed and open façade technological systems and mixed-mode technological systems were used in the construction of the façade of these palaces. Lastly, the study revealed that little reflection of Yoruba culture was seen in the facades. However, the Ake palace was rated highest with the reflection of indigenous Yoruba culture (MIS = 3.00), followed by Owu Palace with an (MIS = 2.90). Next was Ibara Palace (MIS = 2.87) followed by Oke-Ona Palace as the fourth (MIS = 2.82). Agura palace (MIS = 2.62) was rated the fifth palace that reflects indigenous Yoruba heritage. In conclusion, the palaces existing in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria relied more on modern materials and technology for their construction and façade to give the impression of affluence. But, the symbolic meanings of leadership and Yoruba tradition were not strongly emphasised in the facades. The study, therefore, recommends that to preserve the rich indigenous Yoruba heritage, the façade of palaces should incorporate traditional symbolic elements, and forms using modern materials and construction techniques.