INTEGRATING MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENTS TO ACHIEVE URBAN REVITALIZATION AND SUSTAINABLE LIVING ENVIRONMENT IN PORT HARCOURT

Bestmann, Tonye S.

Department of Architecture,

Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Abstract

Mixed-use developments are becoming increasingly essential in achieving a sustainable and attractive environment in many cities today. This is because they promote social equity, economic vitality and environmental quality. This article discusses the concept of mixed-use developments for urban revitalization and sustainable living environment in Port Harcourt. The city of Port Harcourt, formerly known as the garden city is now characterized by its weakened vibrancy and huge deterioration of the entire city landscape. The absence of modern city planning and proper architectural designs over the years has overturned the solid and true well-earned name in the historic times. Today, urban cities in Nigeria suffer from little or no investment actions in proper urban developments and the continuous duplications of single use buildings. The aim of this proposition is to study the developmental practicability of a Mixed-use development.  A Mixed-use development combines different uses in one structure or neighbourhood and has worked in so many developing cities all over the world. The contention being made is straight forward; if it can work there, then why can’t it work here?  The aim is to promote and motivate adequate urban community revitalization though the use of mixed-use spaces to curtail excessive land use thus creating a sustainable living environment.