Top 20 Unique Things About Lagos Homes

The city of Lagos is known for a lot of things. From its busy streets to its lively culture and varied architecture, it is impossible not to fall in love with its unique lifestyle. 

Lagos homes are no exception, with a unique blend of traditional and modern styles that reflect the city’s dynamic personality.

Lagos homes offer a glimpse into the rich culture and lifestyle of this vibrant city. There are certain features in Lagos homes that make them stand out from places elsewhere, either positively or negatively. 

In this article, we will be looking at certain things that are common to Lagosian homes. Whether you are a resident of Lagos or simply curious about the city’s lifestyle, this article is sure to provide insights and inspiration about Lagos homes. 

1. High Walls And Fences

Most Lagos homes have high fences, usually with spikes or barbed wire at the top. It is unusual to see houses without a fence in Lagos, especially in developed areas. 

The high fences serve more than one purpose. They are used for security purposes as well as for marking boundaries, protecting privacy, and reducing noise. 

In a place like Lagos, many areas have high crime rates, and it is only expected that people take measures to protect their safety and privacy. 

As a result, many homeowners erect high walls and fences around their properties to keep intruders out and deter theft or burglary.

2. Multiple Living Areas

Because of the high demand for housing in Lagos, most Lagos homes come with multiple living areas. 

It is not unusual to see two or more families or individuals living in the same building. You can find many Lagos homes where there are two or one-bedroom apartments integrated with the main house. 

This is typically done to generate extra income, but it can also serve other purposes. For many Lagosians, the number and size of living areas in a home can signal wealth and success, and as such, many members of the high-class society often build ridiculously large houses with multiple rooms as a show of wealth. 

3. Gatehouses

Gate houses in Lagos homes are another security measure. The main reason a gatehouse is built is to enhance the security of Lagos homes. 

The gatehouse provides a physical barrier that restricts access to the home, and security guards stationed in the gatehouse can monitor visitors and ensure that only authorized individuals are allowed in.

Also read; 12 Reasons You Should Buy A House In Lagos 

This is especially important in areas where unauthorized access would pose a serious risk. 

Some gatehouses may include storage spaces for deliveries or packages, providing a secure location for items to be stored until they can be picked up by the residents.

4. Alternative Power Supply

If you live in Lagos, you cannot avoid power outages. Lagos experiences frequent power outages due to an unreliable power grid, and these outages can last for hours or even days. 

This makes alternative means of power supply in Lagos homes a necessity. Most houses in Lagos have generators or solar panels to make up for the power outages and ensure a constant power supply.

Alternative means of power supply can also provide a more affordable and sustainable option in the long run. 

Energy costs in Lagos are often high, and this can make it difficult for homeowners to afford a reliable power supply. 

Some homeowners opt for alternative means of power supply, such as solar panels, to cut electricity costs. 

5. Swimming Pools

Having a swimming pool in Lagos is another show of wealth; you would hardly find an upscale Lagos home that doesn’t have a swimming pool. 

Of course, there are other reasons why people would build a swimming pool in their homes. 

Also read: Top 20 Luxury Homes In Lagos

The most obvious reason would be the weather. Lagos has a hot and humid climate, with temperatures often reaching 30 °C or higher. 

Swimming pools provide a refreshing and enjoyable way to cool off in the heat. It also provides a source of entertainment and relaxation for homeowners and their families.

6. Guest Rooms

Lagos homes usually have a room specifically to entertain guests without causing discomfort to the other residents. 

Lagosians are known for their hospitality, and having a guest room in the home is just fitting. 

There are scenarios where you might have to host a guest in your home, whether it’s a family member that is visiting or someone visiting for a business or social event. 

Having a guest room in the home ensures that there is always a comfortable and welcoming space available for visitors.

7. Balconies And Verandas

Duplexes are quite common in Lagos. The majority of Lagos homes in developed areas are duplexes with a balcony or veranda. This is a feature of Lagos homes that serves several purposes. 

A balcony or veranda provides a shaded outdoor space where residents can relax and enjoy the fresh air while enjoying scenic views of the beautiful coastline and stunning city skyline. 

Also read: All You Need To Know About A Five-Bedroom Duplex

Balconies also add to the general aesthetic of a house. It increases the attractiveness of a home as well as its value. 

Balconies and verandas also provide additional living space, which can be used for outdoor dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing. 

It provides a space for socializing with family and friends, which is important in the social culture of Lagos. It could be used to host small events with family and friends.

8. Security Systems

It is important for every homeowner to be security conscious, especially in areas of Lagos with a high crime rate. 

Lagos homes are valuable assets that need to be protected from damage or theft. Security systems can provide early warning of potential threats and help prevent property loss.

Many security systems offer 24/7 monitoring that can be remotely accessed, which means that security personnel can respond quickly to any security breaches and homeowners can monitor their homes and receive alerts on their smartphones or other devices. 

Additionally, homeowners who install security systems can often qualify for lower home insurance rates, as security systems reduce the risk of property loss. 

Most people install security systems in their homes to not have to worry about the safety of their homes.

9. Water Storage Tanks

Water storage tanks are common in Lagos homes for two major reasons. The first is an irregular water supply. 

Some areas in Lagos experience irregular water supplies, which can result in water shortages and disruptions in water service. 

Water storage tanks provide a way for residents to store water when it is available, so they have a continuous supply of water during periods of low or no water service.

Another reason why you would find water storage tanks in Lagos homes is because of the quality of the water. 

The quality of water supplied to homes in Lagos is often poor, with high levels of impurities and contaminants. 

Water storage tanks allow residents to store and treat water before use, ensuring that they have access to clean and safe drinking water.

10. Modern Lighting Fixtures

Lagos homes often have modern lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers and pendant lights. Modern lighting fixtures can enhance the aesthetics of a home by providing stylish and elegant illumination. 

They come in a variety of designs and shapes and can be used to create a variety of moods and ambiances.

Upgrading to modern lighting fixtures can also increase the value of a home, especially if the fixtures are high-end and well-designed. 

This can make the home more attractive to potential buyers or renters. Many modern lighting fixtures are energy-efficient, which means they consume less electricity than traditional fixtures. 

This can result in lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.

11. Gated Communities

Gated communities have become increasingly popular in Lagos for several reasons. One of the primary reasons for gated communities in Lagos is security. 

The high crime rate in the city has made it necessary for many residents to seek out secure and safe living environments. 

Gated communities often have security measures such as controlled access points, security guards, and surveillance systems that help deter criminal activity. It also provides a sense of privacy.

Controlled access to the community means that only authorized individuals can enter the premises, creating a more exclusive and private environment.

Houses in gated communities are relatively expensive, and as such, living in a gated community is often seen as a symbol of status and prestige. 

Many gated communities in Lagos are upscale and exclusive, with high-end homes and luxury amenities, making them attractive to high-net-worth individuals.

12. High ceilings

The ceilings are something you have probably never noticed, but Lagos homes often have high ceilings that serve more than one purpose. 

High ceilings allow hot air to rise and escape, creating natural ventilation and keeping the space cooler. This is very useful because of the hot weather in Nigeria. 

High ceilings allow more natural light to enter the room, creating a brighter and more inviting space. 

It adds to the aesthetic appeal of a house, creating a feeling of grandeur and elegance and making a space appear more spacious and luxurious.

13. Parking Garages And Spaces 

Lagos homes are usually built with a garage or parking space majorly because of limited street parking spaces and vehicle safety. 

Also read: Top 20 Co-Working Spaces In Lagos (Buy or Rent)

Many neighborhoods in Lagos have limited street parking due to congestion, which makes it difficult to find a parking spot near your home.

Parking your vehicle can be risky, it is exposed to theft and vandalism. Having a garage or parking space in your home provides a safe and secure location for your vehicle. 

14. Gardens And Landscaping

Many Lagos homes have beautiful gardens and landscaping, especially upscale houses in affluent neighborhoods. 

This is typically done to add aesthetic appeal to homes, creating a visually appealing and inviting environment. However, it can also increase the value of the property. 

Gardens and landscaping are also beneficial for temperature regulation. The trees and other greenery in gardens help to regulate the temperature, providing a cooling effect in hot weather and reducing the need for air conditioning.

15. Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is a necessity in Lagos homes because of the hot and humid climate, with average temperatures ranging from 26°C to 30°C. Air conditioning helps to cool the indoor environment and maintain a comfortable temperature.

Air conditioning helps to reduce humidity levels, which can help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. 

It also helps to filter out dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, which can improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory problems.

16. Modern Kitchen Appliances

You can typically find several modern kitchen appliances, such as dishwashers, microwaves, air fryers, refrigerators, and food processors, in Lagos homes. 

They are very efficient and make cooking and food preparation much easier and less time-consuming.

They add style and elegance to your kitchen, enhance the overall look and feel of a kitchen, and add value to a home. 

Modern kitchen appliances such as induction cooktops and air fryers provide healthier food preparation options than traditional appliances. These appliances use less oil and produce fewer harmful fumes and smoke.

17. Large Windows

Many Lagos homes have large windows that allow for better ventilation and air circulation. Large windows can be strategically placed to take advantage of prevailing winds and help regulate indoor temperatures.

Most Lagos homes have large windows, mainly because of the hot climate, but they also add to the aesthetic appeal of the house and create a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. 

It provides stunning views of the city skyline or the ocean, allowing residents to enjoy their natural surroundings.

18. Smart Home Technology

Upscale Lagos homes usually have smart home technology that allows homeowners to control and automate various aspects of their homes, such as lighting, temperature, and entertainment, from a single device or app. 

This can save time and effort and make daily tasks more convenient.

Also read: Top 20 Best Real Estate Tech Start-ups In Africa

Smart home technology can help homeowners create a more comfortable living environment by allowing them to adjust the temperature, lighting, and other factors to their preferences.

Smart home technology is a sought-after feature for many home buyers, and installing it can increase the value and appeal of a home.

19. Unique Architecture

If you have an interest in architecture or pay close attention to houses, you have probably noticed the unique architecture of Lagos homes. 

Lagos has a hot and humid climate, which influences the design of homes. Many homes are designed to take advantage of natural ventilation, with large windows, open floor plans, and high ceilings.

Lagos is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from indigenous tribes, European colonialism, and Islamic and Arab cultures. 

The diversity of Lagos also influences the architecture, as shown in the blend of traditional and modern styles of the houses.

20. Custom-built furniture

Most Lagos homes usually have custom-built furniture for flexibility, comfort, and quality. Custom-built furniture is designed to fit the exact dimensions of a room or space, ensuring that every inch of space is utilized optimally. 

It allows the homeowner to personalize their furniture and create unique pieces that are not available in retail stores.

Custom-built furniture is often made from high-quality materials, ensuring that it is durable and long-lasting. 

Although custom-built furniture may initially cost more than store-bought furniture, it can provide better value for money over the long term as it is designed to last for many years.

Lagos has a diverse range of building materials, including locally sourced materials like clay, timber, and palm thatch, as well as imported materials like concrete, steel, and glass. 

This diversity of building materials allows for creative and unique designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Lagos homes, much like the city itself, come with a lot of diversity and uniqueness that reflect the city’s cultural, economic, and social landscape. 

These features are influenced by several factors. 

Whether you are a resident of Lagos or a visitor, the unique features of Lagos homes offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant and dynamic culture.

Related Topics

Extensive Review Of Lekki Gardens Estate + House Listings

Extensive Review Of Parkview Estate (2023)

20 Incredible Reasons Why You Should Invest In A Fixer-Upper

Homes For Rent In the US: Look Out For These 9 Shady Things

​​Complete Guide To Finding Houses Online In 2023

Extensive Review Of Royal Gardens Estate + House Listings

Top 20 Most Expensive Cities To Live In The United States