ANALYSIS OF HOUSING INTERIOR SPACES PREFERENCES OF CIVIL WORKERS IN ABUJA

Abstract

Understanding housing interior space preferences is essential for improving residential satisfaction and the effectiveness of public housing provision. This study examines the interior space preferences of civil workers in Abuja, Nigeria, focusing on nine optional and tradable spaces within dwelling units: dining space, laundry, store, ensuite bedroom, toilet separated from the bedroom, study room, prayer room, ante room, and visitors’ toilet. By situating these spaces within the concept of user-driven and flexible housing design, the study contributes to the theoretical understanding of how optional interior spaces function as negotiable elements in residential layouts. A quantitative research approach was adopted using structured questionnaires administered to Federal civil servants in ministries in Abuja. A sample size of 2,133 respondents was drawn from a population of 40,884 using the Slovin formula, while respondents were selected through simple random sampling. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis using the Chi-square test were employed to examine preferences and the influence of income levels on interior space choices. The results indicate strong preferences for dining spaces, ensuite bedrooms, stores, ante rooms, and visitors’ toilets, reflecting occupants’ needs for functionality, privacy, and social interaction. In contrast, laundry spaces, study rooms, prayer rooms, and toilets separated from bedrooms were less preferred. The findings demonstrate that income significantly shapes preferences for most interior spaces and highlight the importance of incorporating tradable interior spaces in housing design. The study therefore recommends flexible, user-centered housing designs and income-sensitive housing policies to enhance residential satisfaction and the effectiveness of government housing schemes in Abuja.