Design challenges facing urban development in Dar es Salaam City

Abstract

This paper aims at discussing building design challenges facing the city of Dar es Salaam. Information and data used for this paper were drawn from the study conducted in the city of Dar es Salaam and literature survey. The major concern is the negative effects associated with designs, construction activities and unregulated development of buildings in both formal and informal settlements. Poor energy utilization in buildings, poor housing conditions among the majority of urban dwellers and environmental degradation are the typical manifestation of building design challenges. The paper shows that in order for the resources to be deployed sustainable building design must evolve viable solutions which will guide future developments of built environment. Architecture has to respond on ecological demands including use of environmentally friendly building materials, designs must take into account local conditions, culture and identity. It is also important for designers to develop designs that are economically and ecologically sensitive as well as socially sustainable. This includes emphasizing environmental design and energy efficiency in building design and construction. Besides, it is imperative that professionals play active role in supporting housing construction in low-income informal settlements which in most urban areas comprise the bulk of the housing stock. The foregoing is considered critical inputs for sustainable use of resources and development of built environment.

Journal of Building and Land Development Vol. 13 (1) 2006: pp. 1-12