NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY, AWKA FACULTY OF

ENVIROMENTAL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT OF

ARCHITECTURE

A THESIS ON

AN ULTRA MODERN FM RADIO/TV STATION

(ADOPTING EFFICIENT ARCHITECTURALTOOLS TO OPTIMIZE

ACOUSTICS FOR EFFECTIVE BROADCASTING)

BY:

ENESI SOLOMON CHIWENDU

REG NO: 2020274026

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

ARC 412

SUPERVISOR: ARC. IGWEGBE U.K

DATE: APRIL, 2024.

1.0.0CHAPTER ONE:

1.0.0 Introduction

1.1.0 Background to the study

1.2.0 Statement of architectural problem

1.3.0 Aim of study

1.4.0 Objectives of the study

1.5.0 Limitations to the study

1.6.0 Study area

2.0.0 CHAPTER TWO:

2.1.0 Literature review

2.2.0 The concept of adopting efficient architectural tools to optimize effective

broadcasting.

2.3.0 The importance of the research and the benefit of another design proposal

2.4.0 History of FM Radio/ TV Station

2.5.0 International history

2.6.0 Local history

2.7.0 Evolution of the study

2.8.0 Relevance of an Ultra-Modern FM/ TV Radio Station

2.9.0 Classification of Ultra-Modern FM/ TV Radio Station

2.10.0 Impact of technology in the development of Ultra-Modern Radio FM/ TV station

3.0.0 METHODOLOGY

3.1.0 Case study methodology

3.2.0 Aims and objectives of the case studies

3.3.0 Scope of the case studies

3.4.0 Criteria for case study selection

3.5.0 Research methodology

3.6.0 Selected case studies

3.7.0 Data analysis and deductions for the case studies

4.0.0 DESIGN CONCEPT AND DEVELOPMENT

4.1.0 Design philosophy and design concept

4.2.0 Brief research on the design philosophy

4.3.0 Design principles and elements to be adopted

4.4.0 The brief

4.5.0 Schedule of accommodation

4.6.0 Zoning
4.7.0 Flowchart

4.8.0 The site

4.9.0 Site selection criteria’s

4.10.0Physical and climatic site analysis

4.11.0 Spatial requirements for an Ultra-Modern Radio FM/TV Station

4.12.0 Analysis on the function flow of the design

4.13.0 The design process

4.14.0 Factors to consider when designing an Ultra-Modern FM Radio/ TV Station

4.15.0 Decisions made and their justifications

4.16.0 Design drawings that include all the technical sheets to be done.

4.17.0 Methods of construction

4.18.0 Materials and technologies adopted

4.19.0 Innovative ideology

4.20.0 Unique solution for the design short comings

5.0.0 CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1.0 Assessment on the success of the design project

5.2.0 Lessons learned

5.3.0 A brief summary of the design output

5.4.0 Significance of the work done and the possible implications

5.6.0 Recommendations for future research or design improvement.

5.7.0 References
1.0.0 CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1.0 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

An ultra-modern FM radio/TV station is a high-tech facility that combines advanced

technology with a contemporary design to create an efficient and visually striking broadcast
center. It incorporates state-of-the-art equipment, such as digital audio and video systems, virtual
reality and augmented reality tools, and innovative lighting, to produce high-quality
programming and engage audiences in new and exciting ways.

As Kerr (2021) notes, ultra-modern FM radio/TV stations combine advanced technology

and contemporary design to create a visually stunning and efficient broadcast center. It is
basically designed to provide news and information on various subject matters and also for the
entertainment of its audience. These stations may use high definition (HD) or digital technology,
as well as interactive features like web streaming and social media integration. They may also
offer a wide range of programming option including news, music, sports and other contents.

According to Sir Foster Norman (2016), an Ultra-Modern FM Radio/TV Station is a

dynamic, technologically advanced facility that combines cutting-edge design and sustainable
practices to create an inspiring, efficient, and adaptable environment for its occupants.

From an architectural perspective, sound is a factor that is of major importance in

building design (David Egan, 1988), as certain spaces are sound sensitive due to the activities
that they may house. Such spaces may require the effective control and regulation of external
sounds that may be intrusive and internal sounds that may have to be controlled for optimal
overall quality. This is where the service of acoustics comes in (Greek akovein “to hear”), is a
term sometimes used for the service of sound in general, (Microsoft Encarta encyclopedia,
2009). It is the most commonly used for architectural acoustics, a branch of the sciences that
deals with the construction of enclosed spaces so as to enhance the hearing of speech or music,
(Thomas Rossini, 1990). Acoustics basically refers to the way sound waves travels through
spaces. In a radio TV/FM station, the goal is to create a space that has good acoustics, meaning
that the sound is clear and free from reverberation.
 The problem of poor acoustics in FM Radio/ TV Station is as old as its creation. As the
world grew in population and different civilizations came in place, the need for broadcasting
became inevitable in order to create a means of communication between the largely growing
populations of the world. The growth of the world caused an increase in the quality of human life
as new inventions were being made so as to enhance human comfort one of which was the
invention of FM Radio/TV Stations. The need for good acoustics in an FM Radio/TV station
cannot be over emphasized as this feature is needed for efficient broadcasting and this has been a
major difficulty since the creation of the facility.

The history of FM Radio/TV Station dates back to the 1990s, in this period digital radio
technology was being developed, but it was yet to be standardized. In 2001, the NRSC (National
Radio Systems Committee) proposed a standard for HD radio, which was based on the
technology developed by Ubiquity Digital Corporation, founded in the year 1997, the standard
was approved by the FCC in 2002, and it allowed for both analog and digital radio broadcasting.
The first HD radio station went on air in 2002, and by 2006, over 100 HD radio stations were in
operation. Likewise, the first high-definition (HD) TV stations began to appear in 1998, but they
were only available to a limited number of viewers. In 2004, the FCC established a deadline for
all TV stations to convert to digital broadcasting and this helped to increase the number of HD
TV stations began to emerge, which provided even higher resolution than HD TV (Tinker 1991).
Today, many of the most popular TV stations are available in HD or UHD, and viewers can
access them via cable, satellite, or streaming services.

According to David Egan (2007), architectural acoustics are often overlooked in the
design process, but they can quickly become a problem (and a high priority) once the space is put
to use. His words bring into focus the fact that architectural acoustics is a design aspect that
demands full attention in the designing of the ultra-modern radio FM / TV station. Sir Foster
Norman (2016) explains acoustics consideration is a vital aspect of modern broadcasting
facilities, with a critical role in both the comfort of the occupants and the quality of the sound
produced. In an ultra-modern FM Radio/TV Station facility, acoustics must be carefully
controlled, so that the sound produced is of the highest quality and clarity, free from unwanted
echoes and reverberations.
 To create an ultra-modern FM radio/TV station that excels in both visual aesthetics and
sonic quality, the acoustics of the facility must be carefully considered, balancing the need for
optimal sound production and noise reduction through the use of various techniques, such as
sound-absorbing materials, soundproofing strategies and smart placement of sound-producing
equipment, all of which contribute to a more efficient and enjoyable working environment for
staff, as well as a superior listening and viewing experience for the station's audience.
Additionally, effective acoustics can contribute to a more professional and polished appearance
for the station, further enhancing its appeal and reputation.

In the course of this study, different questions about acoustics in an FM Radio/TV station
will be addressed, some questions like;

 What are the causes of poor acoustics in Ultra-Modern FM Radio/TV Station?

 What are the effects of poor acoustics in an Ultra Modern FM Radio/TV Station?

 Can efficient acoustics actually solve the problem of poor broadcasting in an Ultra-
Modern FM/Radio TV station?

 Does Awka need an Ultra-Modern FM Radio/TV station?

In an ultra-modern FM radio TV station, the acoustics of the room can have a big impact
of the quality of the sound, efficient acoustics are crucial to achieving optimal sound quality,
reducing unwanted noise, and maintaining the comfort of occupants, which ultimately
contributes to the success and reputation of the facility. In the view of the foregoing, one may
reasonably summarize that right acoustics balance is essential for creating a high-quality audio or
video experience.

1.2.0 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The inefficient acoustics in an Ultra-Modern FM Radio/ TV Stations has led to poor

sound quality, distracting echoes, poor entertainment for the listeners and reduced comfort for
users, and this totally reduces the performance and reputation of the facility. Therefore,
architectural measures should be taken to solve this problem.

1.3.0 AIM OF STUDY

This project intends to propose a design of an ultra-modern FM Radio/TV station for

Awka, which will be a facility that will promote broadcasting in the East by optimizing efficient
acoustics in the design.

1.4.0 OBJECTIVES TO STUDY

 To determine design and construction methods, building materials, spatial forms and
building standards that are necessary for the production of good acoustical characteristics.

 To obtain design guidelines for proper ultra-modern FM radio/ TV station design.

 To understand how architectural features influences these acoustics parameters in an

ultra-modern FM radio/ TV station.

 To generate an acoustically sound design for a multipurpose theatre that would allow for
non-conflicting and comfortable use.

 To provide spaces that is flexible enough to accommodate changes in the trends of an

ultra-modern FM radio/ TV station.

1.5.0 SCOPE OF STUDY

This facility is meant to provide coverage for the eastern part of Nigeria, and it shall provide
to a satisfactory level, all facilities that are necessary in the optimum design of an Ultra-Modern
FM Radio/ TV Station. The spaces that would be provided are as follows:
1. PRODUCTION AND BROADCASTING AREA:

 Studio spaces (radio and TV).

 Technical areas (master control room, equipment editing, transmission rooms)

 Production spaces (video and audio editing suites, graphic design and animation
studios).

 Performance and event spaces (live performance studio, event spaces.

2. ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT AREA:

 Office spaces (management administrative, sales, marketing, human resources,

accounting).

 Collaboration and meeting spaces (conference room, meeting rooms,

brainstorming and idea rooms)

 Lounge and break areas (employee lounge, break rooms, kitchen and dining area).

3. SUPPORT AND STORAGE AREA:

 Storage and archive spaces (equipment storage, supply storage, archive rooms)

 Technical support areas (server rooms, technical support offices).

 Other support spaces (mailroom, reception area, security office).

1.6.0 STUDY AREA

Awka, the capital city of Anambra State in southeastern Nigeria, located at latitude
6.2122° N and longitude 7.0745° E (GeoNames, 2023), with a tropical savanna climate
characterized by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year (Kottek, 2006), and a
population of approximately 300,000 people (World Bank, 2020), presents a unique opportunity
for the design of an ultra-modern FM Radio/TV station that caters to the diverse needs of its
inhabitants. The city's rich cultural heritage and growing entertainment scene (Eze, 2018) make it
an ideal location for a broadcasting hub that showcases local talent and content. The design of
the station should consider the demographic characteristics of the population (Egan, 1988),
including age, language, and education level, to create programming that resonates with the local
audience. Moreover, the existing media landscape and cultural scene (Lerner, 1958; McQuail,
2010) should be taken into account to ensure the station's offerings are innovative and engaging.
Additionally, the infrastructure and utilities available (Oyebade, 2006), such as electricity and
water supply, will impact the station's operations and sustainability. The regulatory environment
and security concerns (NBC, 2020) must also be considered to ensure compliance with
broadcasting laws and safety standards. Finally, the importance of local content and community
engagement (Bourdieu, 1993) should be prioritized to foster a sense of ownership and inclusivity
among the Awka community.

1.7.0 LIMITATIONS OF STUDY

1. Funding of the project research and project itself has been a surmountable task which
God has intervened in its management.

2. Unavailability of basic data/drawings from the visited establishments.

3. Un-corporative attitude of some establishments in divulging vital information that

would enhance the research.

4. The insecurity of the country.

REFERENCES

Bourdieu, P. (1993). The field of cultural production: Essays on art and literature. Columbia
University Press.

Egan, D. (1988). The importance of sound in building design. In The acoustic environment (pp.
25-45). London: Taylor & Francis.

Eze, C. (2018). Awka: The emerging entertainment hub of Anambra State. The Guardian
Nigeria.

Foster, N. (2016). The future of broadcasting: Ultra-modern FM radio/TV stations. Architectural

Review, 146(5), 10-15.

GeoNames (2023). Awka, Nigeria. GeoNames Geographical Database.

Kerr, J. (2021). The future of broadcasting: Ultra-modern FM radio/TV stations. Journal of

Broadcasting and Media Studies, 40(2), 120-128.)

Kottek, M. (2006). World Map of the Köppen-Geiger climate classification updated.

Meteorologische Zeitschrift, 15(3), 259-263.

Lerner, D. (1958). The passing of traditional society: Modernizing the Middle East. Free Press.

McQuail, D. (2010). McQuail's mass communication theory. Sage Publications.

NBC (2020). Nigeria Broadcasting Code. National Broadcasting Commission.

Oyebade, A. (2006). The development of radio broadcasting in Nigeria. Journal of

Communication, 56(2), 341-356.

Tinker, S. (1991). The Media Environment: An Introduction. Massachusetts: Allyn and Bacon,
Inc.

World Bank (2020). Population of Awka, Nigeria. World Bank Open Data.