Architects seek greater role for architecture in real estate development

Excited by the phenomenal growth and opportunities in real estate at both regional and global level, the Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) is, through its annual Lagos Architects Forum (LAF), seeking greater role for architecture in the development of this sector.

Well into its 5th year and 6th edition, LAF is an avenue through which the institute  impacts on the physical development of its immediate environment, and also influences government policies through advocacy, sensitization and enlightenment campaign.

At a press conference in Lagos, the architects disclosed that the theme of this year’s forum—‘Architecture and Real Estate Development’—was carefully chosen to highlight the role of architecture and how it could be used to advance real estate growth and development.

Ladipo Lewis, the chapter chairman, noted that Lagos is a growth phenomenon with burgeoning real estate opportunities that have been scarcely tapped, pointing out that real estate is such an important aspect of national economy that it contributed 7.6 percent of the new GDP valued at $510 billion.

 “The real estate market in Lagos is thriving as reflected in Island and Mainland property prices; we are looking at new areas for development and this is why we are focusing on hotels, offices and residential properties which, one way or another, affects everybody”, the chairman said.

According to him, the growth impact of hotels on any economy could not be over-emphasised, explaining that hotels spur tourism which today is the economic mainstay of countries like Dubai.

 “There are opportunities for more hotel rooms in Lagos; world standard conference centres are lacking in Nigeria generally and this is why international conferences are not held here. These are some of the things we want to point out in this forum plus the role architecture can play in all these”, he said.

Samson Akinyosoye, the institute’s Public Relations Officer was of the view that the best approach to improving the real estate market in Nigeria is the realization that there are opportunities to tap from.

He said that the three-day forum that begins on Wednesday, May 14, would be providing architects time and platform to share knowledge and experience, adding that it would also serve as a destination for product exhibitors, developers, end-users and even students of architecture.  

Titi Adeyeye, the vice chairman of the institute, explained that the aim of the product exhibition as part of the forum, was to showcase the best producers and their quality products, adding that the exhibition was would bring together producers and end users to share ideas on the product.

Among other benefits, the forum will afford participants opportunity to learn from industry experts and case studies; update skills and learn about current trends in design, developments in the construction industry.