The use of ornamentation in buildings have been widely debated in art, architecture and related fields, with scholars such as Dmochowski (1990), Osasona and Ewemade (2011) and Adegoke (2016) arguing its role in peoples culture. However, these arguments have not adequately addressed the issue of changes in using ornamentation for decoration in Ìkòròdú residential buildings.
This paper therefore, addresses the issue of building designs, with special attention to changing façade ornamentation of contemporary residential buildings in Ìkòròdú, Lagos. Specifically in this paper, I will be examining the use of arches, capitals, columns, perimeter fencing and Iron gates decoration in residential buildings, in order to show that there is upsurge in adaptation and mixing of foreign influences in the contemporary residential designs. I will also discuss features and façade ornamental decoration of “ILÉ OLÓWÓ” - building of the rich in Ìkòròdú, Lagos State, and juxtapose it against its aesthetic contribution to the built environment, in order to reveal that there are hidden benefits for the artists who are used for creating these decorations. Using descriptive analysis and relying on field investigation, photographs, books and journals, I argue that this development, in addition to providing aesthetic satisfaction, is a way for the rich to distinguish their houses from the commoners, and to re-establish their status symbol in the society, a desire which was traditionally a preserve of royalty in most Yoruba lands. In conclusion, this paper, by closely examining façade building decoration in Ikorodu, sheds more light on the issue of art, ornamentation and architectural eclectic dynamism observable in façade of residential buildings in Ikorodu, Lagos.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Review of Literature
3. Study Area
4. Methodology
5. Research findings
6. Discussion
7. Ornamental Arches in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú
8. Capitals, Columns and Bases in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú
9. Ornamental Quoins in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú
10. Ornamental Perimeter Fencing in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú
11. Ornamental Iron Gates in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú
12. Conclusion
13. References.
Objectives and Themes
This study aims to examine the use of ornamentation on the façades of contemporary residential buildings in Ìkòròdú, Nigeria, and analyze how these aesthetic choices reflect the socio-economic status and cultural identity of the homeowners. It investigates the resurgence of eclectic architectural styles and the role of ornamentation as both a status symbol and a driver for local artisanal economy.
- Examination of façade ornamentation techniques including arches, columns, and ironwork.
- Analysis of the socio-cultural motivation behind "Ilé Olówó" (houses of the rich).
- Study of architectural adaptation and the blending of foreign and traditional influences.
- Evaluation of the economic impact on local artisans and craftsmen.
- Assessment of the tension between aesthetic desires and functional security requirements.
Excerpt from the Book
Ornamental Arches in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú
An arch is a curved structure that spans an elevated space, providing a support or strength to a building. The ancient Romans, after the appearance of the use of arches in the 2nd millennium BC in the Mesopotamia, were the first to apply the technique to structures.
There are three common major types of arches. These are circular, pointed, and parabolic. Circular or semicircular arches were commonly used for ancient arches that were constructed of heavy masonry. Pointed arches were most often used in Gothic architecture. The parabolic arch is commonly used in bridges, where long spans are needed. Its use has been noticed in residential buildings too.
The use of arches in residential buildings seems to have resurfaced, and they are been used as ornamentation to decorate the buildings in Ìkòròdú. Plate 1 shows a residential building with a semi parabolic arch at the verandah. The arch is seen with moldings taped round the edges. This is clearly serving a decorative purpose.
Plate 3 shows a semicircular arch at the entrance of a residential building. The moldings at the edge of the arch is an additional ornament with sunk impression. The arch appears to be resting on a dwarf pilaster on both sides with a decorative protrusion.
Summary of Chapters
Introduction: Provides the context of architectural beauty in Yoruba culture and establishes the focus on façade ornamentation in Ìkòròdú.
Review of Literature: Explores existing scholarly debates on the definitions of ornamentation versus decoration and discusses colonial influences on Nigerian architectural styles.
Study Area: Defines the geographical and demographic context of Ìkòròdú as a rapidly growing suburb of Lagos State.
Methodology: Outlines the research approach, relying on descriptive narration, field observations, personal photographs, and secondary data sources.
Research findings: Summarizes the discovery that homeowners utilize ornamentation primarily for aesthetic satisfaction and as a status symbol to re-establish social prestige.
Discussion: Analyzes the historical and cultural shift in ornament usage, including the historical rejection of ornament by modernist movements and the subsequent return to interest.
Ornamental Arches in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú: Details the transition and use of various arch types as decorative elements on residential façades.
Capitals, Columns and Bases in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú: Examines how structural elements are modified into ornamental features to provide an appearance of opulence.
Ornamental Quoins in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú: Discusses the function and application of rectangular masonry blocks at building corners for aesthetic and structural purposes.
Ornamental Perimeter Fencing in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú: Investigates the dual role of perimeter walls as security barriers and platforms for exhibiting status through lavish ironwork.
Ornamental Iron Gates in Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú: Explores the evolving design of gates as monumental status symbols that integrate floral or zoomorphic motifs.
Conclusion: Concludes that architectural ornamentation is dynamic and recommends incorporating local materials and considerations for maintenance in future designs.
References.: Lists the academic literature and sources utilized for the research.
Keywords
Ornamentation, Decoration, Façade, Architectural, Building, Ilé Olówó, Ìkòròdú, Status Symbol, Yoruba, Aesthetic, Columns, Arches, Quoins, Perimeter Fencing, Eclectic Dynamism
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research paper?
The paper focuses on the changing trends of façade ornamentation on contemporary residential buildings in Ìkòròdú, Lagos, specifically exploring how these elements express the wealth and status of homeowners.
What are the core themes addressed in the work?
The core themes include architectural adaptation, the socio-economic status of homeowners, the influence of foreign architectural styles, and the impact of these decorative practices on the local economy.
What is the main research question being investigated?
The study investigates why and how ornamentation on residential façades has resurfaced as an indicator of status and how modern homeowners distinguish their dwellings through these architectural features.
Which scientific methodology does the author employ?
The author adopts a descriptive research methodology, utilizing field investigation, personal observation, photography of local structures, and the analysis of existing literature and journals.
What topics are covered in the main body of the work?
The main body covers specific architectural components such as arches, columns, quoins, perimeter fencing, and iron gates, examining their transition from structural necessities to elaborate decorative elements.
How would you summarize the key characteristics of this research?
The research is characterized by its focus on "Ilé Olówó" (houses of the rich), the blending of Greco-Roman and Brazilian architectural influences, and the ongoing tension between security needs and aesthetic display.
What does the author mean by "Ilé Olówó"?
The term "Ilé Olówó" refers to "the building of the rich," representing residential structures in Ìkòròdú that are heavily ornamented to showcase the owner's financial status and social prestige.
How has the Nigerian economy influenced the use of ornamentation in the past?
The author notes that during the economic downturn in the 1980s, interest in copious decoration waned due to cost constraints, but in current times, there has been a re-emergence of ornate architectural design.
What benefit does this decorative trend provide to others besides the homeowners?
The study highlights that this development provides financial support to local artisans and craftsmen who are commissioned to create these detailed ornamental decorations.
What final recommendation does the author make for architects?
The author suggests that architects should consider the use of locally available materials, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance to ensure that creative ornamentation remains sustainable and accessible across different wealth brackets.
- Quote paper
- Nathaniel Ogunyale (Author), 2023, Ilé Olówó. Changing Ornamental Façades of Contemporary Residential Buildings in Ìkòròdú, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1416942
