Stakeholder perspectives on implementing net zero energy principles in boutique hotel design in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

The application of Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) principles in Nigeria’s building industry remains underexamined, particularly in the hospitality sector. This study explores stakeholder perspectives on the feasibility, challenges, and opportunities of applying NZEB principles in boutique hotel design in Lagos, Nigeria. The study employs a qualitative research approach through thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with Architects, Hotel managers, Facility managers, and Energy experts to provide contextual insights into the feasibility and perceived challenges of applying NZEB principles in boutique hotel design. Findings reveal a complicated interplay of structural and perceptual barriers, such as enormous initial cost, inadequate technical expertise, and client skepticism. However, amidst these limitations, findings also highlight emerging enablers such as growing interest in Building Information Modelling (BIM), increased demand for sustainable hospitality experiences, and the potential of hybrid renewable systems tailored to local contexts. Participants also identified feasible strategies, such as leveraging smart systems, adapting hybrid renewable energy models, and incorporating elements of sustainability early in the design. The study offers a well-founded, stakeholder-informed perspective on sustainable hospitality, emphasizing the critical need for policy alignment, professional training, collaborative design frameworks, and design and energy innovations tailored to local contexts to bridge the gap between design theories and pragmatic implementation, contributing to the growing discourse on sustainable developments.