Assessing Biophilic Design and Indoor Environmental Quality in Postgraduate Hostels in Public Universities in South-West Nigeria

The Rapid urbanization and increased dependence on artificial indoor environments have reduced occupants’ connection with nature, thereby affecting comfort, well-being, and environmental satisfaction within university residential buildings. This study assessed the extent of biophilic design strategies and their influence on indoor environmental quality in postgraduate students’ satisfaction in selected postgraduate hostels across public universities in South-West Nigeria. A quantitative research approach was adopted using structured questionnaires administered to postgraduate students. Five university hotels were purposively selected namely; University of Lagos, Federal University of Technology Akure, Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, University of Ibadan, and Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. Using Slovin’s formula was used to select a sample size of 334 respondents was derived from a total population of 2,031 students. Data collected were analyzed using frequency distribution, percentages, mean score ranking, and Mean Weighted Value (MWV). Findings revealed that natural ventilation (MWV = 4.41), access to daylight (MWV = 4.32), and surrounding vegetation (MWV = 4.18) were the most significant biophilic features influencing students’ comfort and satisfaction. However, inadequate maintenance, overcrowding, and limited outdoor interaction spaces reduced overall environmental quality in some hostels. The study concludes that biophilic design strategies significantly enhance indoor environmental quality and residential satisfaction in postgraduate hostels. The study recommends the integration of climate-responsive and nature-based design strategies in future university hostel developments.