The vocabulary of architectural style—traditionally employed by architectural historians and preservationists—is visually accessible and easily learned yet emphasizes elite status hierarchies. “Unfortunately,” Hubka adds, “this professional vocabulary of stylistic terminology can seldom be stretched to apply to most common housing, and it is a major impediment to awarding names and meaningful classifications to houses without names” (11). The preservationist’s preference for unaltered buildings (the test of “historic integrity”) likewise favors elite houses built of permanent materials, structures that satisfy all of a family’s needs from the start and require fewer alterations over the years. By contrast, the limited resources of most vernacular and speculative builders cause them to build more modestly, often starting with a basic core that subsequent residents adapt and expand as family resources and needs change.
Welcome To The Nigerian Institute Of Architects
Where We Build Your Visions
The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) was founded on the 1st of April 1960 as an association of independent professional architects with the aims and objectives of fostering friendship amongst members, cater for their welfare and establish mutual support and cooperation amongst them.
The idea for the formation of an independent professional architect’s organization in Nigeria was first conceived and motivated by three Nigerian architects while still pursuing their training in England in the early fifties.
In 1958, an 8-member study group was formed to carry out the detailed planning for the establishment of the Institute which ultimately culminated in inauguration of the Institute.
From a modest 13 members at inauguration, the Institute has experienced a phenomenal growth in its membership, activities, stature and influence both at national and international levels. Total membership today stands at about 12000 in 5 classes of membership including Fellows, Full members, Associates, Graduates _ Students members spread across 31 Chapters and the Federal Capital Territory.
