Preserving Cultural Identity Through Architectural Iconism: A Design Framework for the Delta State Liaison Office in Abuja, Nigeria

This study investigates the application of architectural iconism as a strategic approach for preserving and expressing the cultural identity of Delta State in the design of a state liaison office in Abuja, Nigeria. In the face of architectural homogenization driven by globalization, many institutional buildings in Nigeria's capital fail to communicate regional heritage. Drawing on architectural iconism, critical regionalism, and cultural identity theory, the research examines traditional forms, motifs, spatial concepts, and indigenous materials of the Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, and Anioma peoples. A mixed-methods design combining case-study analysis of four liaison and diplomatic buildings, questionnaire survey (n=85), and qualitative content analysis was employed. Findings reveal that traditional motifs (29.4%), building forms (21.2%), and cultural artefacts (17.6%) are the most transferable cultural elements. Respondents strongly supported the integration of abstracted cultural symbols (32.9%) and modern reinterpretation of traditional forms (25.9%). The study proposes a design framework that balances administrative functionality with symbolic expression through form abstraction, façade articulation, material selection, spatial organization, and culturally responsive landscaping. The resulting architecture is conceived as both a functional government facility and a cultural citadel that projects Delta State's identity within the federal capital