Research Article

EXAMINING HYBRID VERNACULAR HAUSA ARCHITECTURE IN PERI-URBAN YELWA, BAUCHI: MATERIAL CONTINUITY, SPATIAL ADAPTATION, AND LIVING HERITAGE

Michael O. AJUFOH1*, Theophilus SHITU2, Muhammed M. BELLO1, Ruth R. MARTINS3
1 Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Technology, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Bauchi State
2 Department of Construction and Built Environment, University of Northampton, United Kingdom
3 Department of Architecture, Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State
* Corresponding author: oamichael@atbu.edu.ng
Published: Jun, 2026
DOI: 10.66884/kesj.2026.tzqf8f70
Pages: 230-244
Views: 88
Downloads: 28

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the transformation of traditional Hausa residential architecture in peri-urban Yelwa, Bauchi, investigating how hybrid vernacular forms express living heritage through material continuity and spatial adaptation amidst rapid urbanization.

Design/methodology/approach: Using a qualitative ethnographic approach combining field observation, visual documentation, spatial mapping, and semi-structured interviews with twenty-five purposively selected households, the study analysed material usage, spatial configuration, incremental construction practices, and sociocultural occupation patterns.

Findings: Results indicate sustained reliance on earth-based wall systems (tubali) in approximately 70% of structural bases, alongside selective adoption of corrugated metal roofing (80%) and concrete block elements (20–30%). Courtyard proportions reduced from traditional 40–50% to 15–25% of plot areas, while street-facing openings increased in 60% of cases. These adaptations represent pragmatic responses to economic constraints, climate pressures, and changing household structures, whilst maintaining culturally embedded spatial logic regarding privacy and gender segregation.

Research limitations/Implications: The study focused on a single peri-urban settlement, limiting generalisability across diverse Hausa urban contexts.

Practical implications: The research recommends revising building codes to accommodate hybrid earth-construction systems, supporting building guilds (magina) through technical training, and recognising incremental construction as legitimate housing production aligned with SDG 11.4 implementation.

Originality/value: This study contributes to architectural theory on living heritage by documenting hybrid vernacular forms as dynamic, culturally embedded practice rather than diminished tradition.

Keywords

Hausa architecture; hybrid vernacular; indigenous housing; peri-urban Bauchi; SDG 11.4; ethnography

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How to Cite

AJUFOH, M. O., SHITU, T., BELLO, M. M., & MARTINS, R. R. (2026). EXAMINING HYBRID VERNACULAR HAUSA ARCHITECTURE IN PERI-URBAN YELWA, BAUCHI: MATERIAL CONTINUITY, SPATIAL ADAPTATION, AND LIVING HERITAGE. Kaduna State University Environmental Sciences Journal, 6(1), 230-244. https://doi.org/10.66884/kesj.2026.tzqf8f70

M. O. AJUFOH, T. SHITU, M. M. BELLO, and R. R. MARTINS, "EXAMINING HYBRID VERNACULAR HAUSA ARCHITECTURE IN PERI-URBAN YELWA, BAUCHI: MATERIAL CONTINUITY, SPATIAL ADAPTATION, AND LIVING HERITAGE," Kaduna State University Environmental Sciences Journal, vol. 6, no. 1, pp. 230-244, June 2026. doi: 10.66884/kesj.2026.tzqf8f70

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