Book Review: Design Essence: Geosophic Perspectives

Author:

Tunji Adejumo

Published by:

Academic Publishing Centre, Lagos, Nigeria

Number of pages and illustrations:

277

Book Review

Urban areas are characterised by distinctive designs that reflect their unique economic and geographical attributes, perceived as living entities with integral functions contributing to the community's overall well-being. Both tangible and intangible elements of an environment play a crucial role in the operational efficacy of urban areas. Consequently, towns and cities do not emerge arbitrarily; they arise from established principles and ideologies that encourage specific populations to adapt to their environmental context. Optimal frameworks for facilitating urban design are examined, particularly within the context of Nigeria, which serves as the principal focus of this publication. Adejumo succinctly addresses the Nigerian scenario by critically evaluating the urban design model employed since the post-independence era. He acknowledges the colonial urban system as a framework that coexisted alongside Indigenous culture. Although this model is not exclusively situated within the African context, it was necessitated by the environmental demands of the tropical region as understood by Western perspectives. Consequently, structures were conceived to harmonise with ecological conditions that respect nature and promote sustainability.

The book " Design Essence: Geosophic Perspectives " offers a philosophical and design-driven approach to urban planning, accentuating the intricate relationship between culture, nature, and sustainability.

This work predominantly focuses on Nigeria as a case study that provides valuable insights for understanding the broader context of sub-Saharan Africa. While the text underscores the absence of immutable design principles or philosophies, it is noteworthy that the categorisation of sub-Saharan Africa recognises that the region encompasses North, South, East, West, and Central Africa. Each of these areas possesses unique characteristics, both intangible and tangible heritage, as well as distinct cultures and climatic conditions that must be considered when developing sustainable designs. Such designs ought to evolve thoughtfully, reflecting the growth and resilience rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems. The selection of Nigeria, though, illustrates a diversity that likely resonates with various African ethnic groups. However, the discourse on sustainability and transition emerges as a significant challenge confronting Africa. The Nigerian context necessitates a re-evaluation, particularly as the nation advances in specific aspects of the creative industry, where cultural elements remain foundational to cognitive processes. An understanding of the Yoruba culture, particularly in relation to spatial organisation and place-making vis- à- vis contemporary urban centres, contrasts starkly with historical precedents.

Adejumo conducts an examination of the influences exerted by modern capitalism and globalisation on urban landscapes, which frequently undermine Indigenous cultural values. Consequently, the natural evolution of urban settings is often overshadowed by governmental objectives that prioritise the establishment of enabling environments for sustainable development. These environments aim to facilitate a lifestyle that harmonises living, working, and recreation for citizens.

The result is urban centres that expand uncontrollably, characterised by a deficiency in identity and sustainability while neglecting the organic evolution of areas rooted in historical Context. This departure from indigenous cultural ideologies fails to demonstrate a progressive trajectory that elucidates the causes and effects leading to sustainable solutions.

Rather, the Nigerian context underscores the depreciation and loss of fundamental values derived from cultural guiding principles. Furthermore, the author articulates sustainability as a response to the excesses of modernism, advocating for a transformation on a planetary scale where human collaboration, enhancement of quality of life, and reverence for nature are esteemed as central tenets.

The book advocates for a geosophic approach integrating Indigenous knowledge and landscape philosophy into urban planning. It underscores the significance of originality, which is deeply rooted in the culture and is specific to particular communities.

Echoing Geertz's (1973) assertion that culture reflects the manner of life of a people, it is imperative to acknowledge that this lifestyle encompasses their technological practices, which consequently inform design choices. To facilitate the development of authentic place-based structures that emerge from the interplay between nature and culture, a comprehensive exploration of local philosophies is crucial to reassessing enduring art forms and all forms of artistic expression. These distinctive cultural philosophies function as unique identity markers that inform the architectural character of a community. Additionally, these philosophies are manifested in the architectural styles that prevail in different historical periods. An examination of the design process in Nigeria reveals the interests of the colonial ruling class while concurrently prompting critical inquiries. What factors impede the adoption of culturally informed styles long after the conclusion of the colonial period? When will the curriculum for tertiary studies in environmental disciplines be revised in this regard? Furthermore, how is the contemporary curriculum influenced by culturally sustainable practices embraced by the populace?

Adejumo highlights challenges in Nigeria's urban landscape that are also likely in cities throughout Africa. The call for people- and culture-focused design philosophies and planning regulations is crucial in the 21st century.

Without this approach, urban maintenance and sustainability will struggle to align with cultural identity, making sustainable development an elusive goal. Nigeria presents an opportunity to revive culturally driven philosophies that enhance urbanism by integrating cultural and ecological processes. Additionally, the critique of external influences like colonialism and Western planning models underscores the need to return to local philosophies. The author emphasises place-based urban planning, citing Yoruba urbanism as an example. He criticises the use of Western planning styles and encourages the integration of Indigenous aesthetics. Folkloric songs and traditional stories are vital for preserving cultural identity in urban settings. Adejumo notes that the public realm should reflect a place's essence, particularly in Yoruba landscapes, where open parks and gardens bridge indoor and outdoor spaces.

Understanding the ideology of public squares in the Western context and Nigeria is essential. Habermas's (1962) concept of the public sphere highlights the populace's interests and a space for community engagement and political inclusion. Thus, the Western public realm is carefully planned from the beginning. While African cultures value public spaces, the Nigerian context shows a different scenario, treating it as a secondary ideology. The importance of open spaces in societies is significant, as they reflect cultural, traditional, and religious beliefs passed down through generations. Adejumo questions the role of Indigenous knowledge in planning communal centres and open spaces in modern African urban design. How are these sacred spaces integrated into African cities, and how are they preserved without undermining cultural values, as noted by Benepe (20020 and Salveen (2002)? The loss of colonial public spaces in Nigeria remains unaddressed.

Conclusion

The publication entitled "Design Essence: Geosophic Perspectives” constitutes a substantial contribution to the body of literature concerning African urban planning.

The book compels architects, planners, and policymakers to critically reassess the design of urban environments, striving to ensure that these designs authentically embody local histories, cultures, and ecosystems.

Although several arguments presented are significantly anchored in historical narratives, each culture will adhere to clearly defined strategies for implementation. While this issue has widespread implications for the general populace, the academic writing style may present comprehension challenges for individuals engaged in policymaking, who typically do not immerse themselves in scholarly literature. Consequently, this book proves particularly advantageous for professionals and researchers in architecture, urban planning, and landscape architecture, especially those focused on sustainability and the integration of Indigenous knowledge.

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