Demographic Variations in Acoustic Sensitivity: Implications for Auditorium Design in Nigerian Higher Education

Abstract

Acoustic comfort is increasingly recognised as a critical factor in the performance and well-being of users within educational environments. However, limited attention has been paid to how demographic variables influence users’ perception of acoustic quality in university auditoria, particularly within the Nigerian context. This study investigates how age, gender, and user role shape subjective experiences of acoustic comfort, with the goal of informing more inclusive and responsive architectural design. A structured questionnaire was administered to 365 respondents comprising students, lecturers, and institutional guests in a private Nigerian university. Using a quantitative descriptive design, data were analysed through descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations to identify perceptual patterns across demographic groups. Findings revealed significant variations in acoustic sensitivity. Female respondents and individuals aged 21–30 years reported higher levels of discomfort, particularly with echo, reverberation, and speech clarity. Students, who constitute the most frequent users of auditoria, expressed the greatest dissatisfaction and were most vocal in advocating for improved acoustic environments. These trends underscore the importance of integrating user perceptions into design and evaluation processes. Drawing from psychoacoustic theory and the salutogenic design framework, the study proposes a suite of responsive strategies including psychoacoustic zoning, adaptive ceiling treatments, modular sound systems, and post-occupancy evaluation mechanisms. The study contributes a novel perspective to African-based architectural acoustics literature by emphasizing the psycho-social dimensions of auditory comfort. It argues that the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to auditorium design often neglects perceptual diversity and may inadvertently reinforce discomfort among certain demographic groups. The research offers a replicable methodology for assessing and integrating demographic sensitivity into design decisions and concludes with practical recommendations for architects, planners, and policy-makers in higher education. Ultimately, the study promotes equity-focused, user-centred spatial planning as a necessary step towards sustainable and inclusive learning environments in Nigerian universities.