Assessing the Causes of Defects in Heritage Building towards Safeguarding Cultural Heritage in Hausaland Milieu: A Case Study of Nasarawa Palace, Kano

Abstract

Nasarawa Palace is a heritage building of mud architecture, embodying intricate artistic expression, craftsmanship reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Kano people. Currently, the palace is undergoing deterioration and transformation. Hence, this study aimed at examining the causes of defect influencing the Nasarawa Palace. Case study design approach was involved as a strategy in achieving the research aim, whereby purposive sampling technique was engaged in eliciting data from the palace stakeholders through semi-structured interviews. Photos, voice record and observation were also conducted during the fieldwork. It was found that, the frontline causes of building defects in the Nasarawa Palace are related to heavy rainfall which causes waterlog, deterioration and minor flooding. Secondly, the findings revealed that, Nasarawa Palace had undergone significant changes from its initial traditional construction to the shift towards the use of modern materials. In conclusion, the transformation of the Nasarawa Palace is shaped by a combination of cultural, economic, governmental, community-driven factors. The study recommends professionals in the building industry including architects and engineers to take cognisance of preserving and reviving cultural identity when embarking on heritage buildings of traditional architecture. Hence, this paper recommends for further research to ascertain the level of awareness of cultural significances to professionals in royal palaces of Northern Nigeria.