User Perception of Green Spaces in the Context of Architectural Composition of Jos Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated user perception of green spaces and in what way they have affected the architectural composition of selected environs of Jos metropolis in order to establish a green space intervention stratagem that will support policy makers, architects and planners in developing the required guidelines on urban planning and design. Using the simple random sampling, the investigation selected five neighbourhoods out of the existing eight namely; Anglo-Jos ward, Tudun Wada ward, Tafawa Balewa ward, Vander Puye ward and Zaria Crescent ward. Out of the five selected wards a total sample of 365 respondents was determined as the sample size for the investigation. The Likert attitudinal scaling technique was employed in the examination of users’ perception of green spaces regarding its effect on architectural composition. Structured questionnaires and interview were used in obtaining the required data of the use of the green spaces around the neighbourhoods. User perception of green spaces in the context of architectural composition of Jos metropolis generally revealed that green spaces make the quality of neighbourhood areas healthier. It was certainly found that the general perception of green spaces was affirmative. Respondents in general agreed that perceived deficiencies or absence of green spaces did affect the architectural composition of the built form of Jos metropolis. Consequently, the study found that a larger size of users of green spaces within the carefully chosen neighbourhoods of Jos metropolis perceive green spaces as being an inherent component of architectural composition. The study therefore, proposed that a strategic policy plan and a more detailed and long term vision for green spaces be established

Keywords: User, Perception, Green spaces, Architecture Composition, Neighbourhood and Inhabitants