Integration of Cultural Elements in the Design of Cultural Center: A Case Study of June 12 Cultural Center, Abeokuta, Nigeria

The design of cultural centers poses significant challenges for architects, particularly in articulating both the tangible and intangible cultural attributes that shape a society’s identity. This study focuses on the June 12 Cultural Center in Abeokuta, Nigeria, analyzing the integration of cultural elements within its structural design. It investigate show traditional features, spatial configurations, material selections, and symbolic forms have been strategically identified, adapted, and articulated to enhance cultural continuity in a contemporary context. Employing a qualitative case study methodology, the research delves into four pivotal variables: the incorporation of cultural and traditional elements by the architect, the conceptual and spatial design strategies employed, the influence of geographic context, and the selection of materials and construction technologies. Utilizing visual surveys, document analysis, and interviews with design professionals, the study uncovers techniques such as abstract reinterpretation and direct mimicry of indigenous motifs, spatial hierarchies, and construction methods that embed cultural significance into the design. Findings indicate that a successful architectural manifestation of identity emerges from the intentional amalgamation of diverse techniques effectively merging symbolism, material authenticity, and contextual responsiveness. The June 12 Cultural Center stands as a case study, demonstrating how cultural heritage can be seamlessly integrated into modern architectural language without compromising functional relevance or aesthetic integrity. The study emphasizes the importance of a holistic and context-sensitive approach in design, advocating for the harmonization of tradition and innovation. By doing so, contemporary cultural centers can function as vital repositories of cultural heritage, fostering collective memory, enhancing social cohesion, and bolstering tourism potential.