Designing for northern clients who practice Islam involves paying attention to traditional Hausa hierarchy of public, semi-public, and private spaces, as well as other cultural values specific to Islamic and Hausa culture. The “Villa in Malalai GRA” respects these values while departing from traditional Hausa heritage buildings. The building’s orientation takes advantage of prevailing winds for passive airflow and minimizes thermal load by facing north and south.

Terraces shield fenestration behind loggias, and the main windows are shaded by terraces overlooking the courtyard. The villa’s character is defined by the interplay of light and shadow created by the perforated screen walls, and it is designed to provide a comfortable living environment while respecting cultural heritage.