Housing the Family

Topic: Housing the Family

WEEK: 8

Housing is a basic human need that is essential for the well-being and security of individuals and families. Housing provides shelter and protection from the elements, as well as a space for privacy, rest, and relaxation. For families, a suitable home is crucial for creating a stable and nurturing environment where children can grow and thrive.

Housing the family involves finding and providing a safe and comfortable living space that meets the needs of the family members. This may include considerations such as the size of the home, its location, accessibility to schools and amenities, affordability, and safety. Additionally, housing the family involves creating a space that reflects the family’s unique needs and preferences, such as accommodating for family members with disabilities, creating spaces for family activities and gatherings, and providing adequate storage for personal belongings.

For many families, finding suitable housing can be a significant challenge. Factors such as high housing costs, limited availability, discrimination, and poor living conditions can make it difficult for families to find safe and affordable homes. In many cases, families may also face barriers such as poor credit history, insufficient income, and limited access to financial resources that make it challenging to secure housing.

Despite these challenges, there are various resources and support systems available to help families find suitable housing. These may include government housing programs, non-profit organizations, and community resources that offer assistance with housing applications, financial support, and education on tenant rights and responsibilities.

Types of Houses in Nigeria

Bungalow: A bungalow is a single-story house that is usually detached. It is the most popular type of house in Nigeria and is often preferred by people who do not want to climb stairs. Bungalows can be designed in various architectural styles.
Duplex: A duplex is a house with two separate living spaces, usually with separate entrances. The two living spaces are usually mirror images of each other, with each space having its own kitchen, living room, and bedrooms. Duplexes are common in Nigeria and are often used as rental properties.
Terrace houses: These are houses that are joined together in a row, with each house sharing one or more walls with its neighbor. Terrace houses are usually designed in such a way that they have a common entrance, with each house having its own living spaces and rooms.
Mansion: A mansion is a large and luxurious house that is often associated with the wealthy. Mansions are often designed in grand architectural styles and are usually located in upscale neighbourhoods.
High-rise buildings: These are tall buildings that have multiple floors and are designed to accommodate a large number of people. High-rise buildings can be used for residential, commercial, or mixed-use purposes.
Detached houses: These are houses that are not connected to any other house. They usually have their own compound and are ideal for people who value privacy.
Semi-detached houses: These are houses that are attached to one other house. They usually share a common wall and are designed in such a way that each house has its own entrance and living spaces.
Flat/apartment: These are typically multi-story buildings with separate units or flats. These flats can be either rented or owned by individuals and are often found in cities and urban areas.
Cottage: A cottage is a small, cosy house that is usually located in a rural or semi-rural area. Cottages are often designed in a rustic style, with natural materials like wood and stone.
Townhouse: A townhouse is a type of house that is usually two or three stories tall and is attached to other houses in a row. Townhouses share a common wall with the adjacent houses and have their own entrance and living spaces.
Igloo: An igloo is a traditional house made of snow and ice, which is typically found in the far northern regions of Nigeria. While not common in Nigeria, they are still used by some indigenous people in the region.
Log cabin: A log cabin is a small house made of logs that are stacked on top of each other. Log cabins are often designed in a rustic style and are popular in rural and mountainous areas.
Dome house: A dome house is a type of house that has a curved roof in the shape of a dome. Dome houses are often designed to be energy-efficient and are becoming more popular in Nigeria.
Houseboat: A houseboat is a type of floating home that is designed to be lived in. Houseboats are often used as vacation homes or as primary residences for people who live near bodies of water.
Treehouse: A treehouse is a type of house that is built in a tree, usually in a forest or wooded area. Treehouses are often designed to be small and simple, but can also be quite luxurious and elaborate.

Factors Responsible for The Location and Choices of Family House

Some factors are responsible for the location and choices of the family house. These are:

Economic factors: The financial strength of a family is a crucial factor in determining the type of house they can afford. High-income earners can afford bigger and more luxurious houses while low-income earners can only afford smaller and more affordable ones.
Site/Location of the house: The location of a house is important for a family’s convenience and safety. A house should be located near or easily accessible to places like schools, markets or shopping centers, places of work, and must also be safe in terms of health and security.
Size of the family: The size of a family will determine the size of the house they need. A larger family will require a larger house than a smaller family.
Family life cycle: The life cycle of a family will also determine their choice of a house. For example, a young couple starting a family may need a small apartment, while an expanding family will need a bigger apartment. A contracting family, on the other hand, may only need a small apartment when only the couple is left alone.
Special needs of family members: The special needs of family members, such as physical disabilities, must be considered in the choice of a house. For example, a person with arthritis or a leg problem may need to live in a bungalow and not in a storey building.
Design of the house: The layout or plan of the house must suit the family’s needs and preferences. For example, a family that enjoys hosting guests may prefer a house with a large living room.
Ventilation and lighting: A good house should be well-ventilated and well-lit to provide a healthy and comfortable living environment for the family.
Lifestyle of the family: The interests and activities of the family must also be considered in the choice of a house. For example, a family that enjoys outdoor activities may prefer a house with a large garden or backyard.
Availability of amenities: Families may choose a house based on the availability of amenities such as swimming pools, gymnasiums, and playgrounds in the vicinity.
Cultural and religious preferences: The cultural and religious preferences of the family may also play a role in the choice of a house. For example, a family may prefer a house that has a prayer room or is close to their place of worship.
Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as air pollution, noise pollution, and proximity to natural areas may also influence the choice of a house.
Future plans: Families may consider their future plans when choosing a house. For example, they may choose a house that has extra rooms for future expansion or a house that is located in an area with good growth potential.