EFFECTIVENESS OF PASSIVE DESIGN STRATEGIES FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND OPERATIONAL COST REDUCTION IN RESORT FACILITIES IN LEKKI, LAGOS STATE

This study evaluates the effectiveness of passive design strategies in enhancing energy efficiency and reducing operational costs in resort facilities in coastal Lagos State. As the hospitality industry continues to grow in this rapidly urbanizing coastal corridor, resort operators are increasingly facing rising energy demands driven by extensive cooling, lighting, and ventilation requirements. Passive design strategies, including optimal building orientation, natural ventilation, daylighting, shading devices, strategic landscaping, thermal insulation, and the use of local climate-responsive materials, offer significant potential to mitigate these challenges by reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Despite these benefits, their implementation within resort facilities in coastal Lagos State remains inconsistent and poorly documented. The research adopts a qualitative case study approach comprising direct field observations and case study assessments of selected resort facilities. The findings suggest that passive design strategies contribute to reduced cooling loads, improved indoor thermal comfort, and potential operational cost savings, while contributing to environmental sustainability and guest satisfaction. However, barriers such as inadequate technical expertise, limited awareness, weak regulatory enforcement, and prioritization of aesthetics over performance hinder optimal adoption. The study provides practical, evidence-based recommendations for improving the design and operation of coastal resort facilities through enhanced climate-responsive strategies. Ultimately, the research contributes to ongoing discourse on sustainable architecture, energy conservation, and cost-effective hospitality management in Nigeria.