Assessment of the Integration of Architectural Healing Environment in Selected Cardiovascular Healthcare Facilities in Nigeria

Objective: To assess and compare observable healing-environment provisions in three Nigerian healthcare facilities associated with cardiovascular care. Methods: A descriptive comparative multiple-case study assessed three purposively selected Nigerian healthcare facilities providing cardiovascular services. Architectural fieldwork in 2024 used visual observation, photographs, sketches and plans, supported by a 26-item checklist covering acoustic comfort, positive distraction, daylighting, thermal comfort, colour and privacy. Indicators were rated at 0, 25, 50, 75 or 100, and domain means were calculated descriptively. The indices express the level of architectural integration of the assessed principles. Results: Cross-case means were 68.3 for acoustic comfort, 51.7 for positive distraction, 58.3 for daylighting, 51.0 for thermal comfort, 100.0 for the single colour indicator and 79.2 for privacy. Nizamiye had the highest scores in four domains, while Peter Odili Centre had the highest thermal score. All cases scored zero for horizontal daylight shading, water bodies and courtyards. The profiles showed uneven reflection of healing-environment principles across the three facilities. Conclusion: The cases show uneven provision across related architectural domains. They support coordinated consideration of acoustic treatment, nature contact, daylight, solar control and privacy in design review, followed by environmental measurement and user evaluation. The findings neither establish national prevalence nor demonstrate improved patient recovery