Ceramic Tile Misapplication in Institutional Buildings: Safety, Durability, and Aesthetic Implications

Ceramic tiles are among the most widely used finishing materials in contemporary Nigerian architecture due to their affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal. However, their misuse in public buildings has raised significant concerns regarding safety, functionality, and aesthetics. This paper critically examines the inappropriate use of wall and floor tiles in two case-study buildings at the University of Benin: the Bursary Office and the Faculty of Environmental Sciences. Employing a qualitative case-study methodology, the research integrates on-site observations, photographic documentation, and literature review. The findings reveal recurring patterns of tile misuse, including poor material selection, disregard for slip resistance in high-traffic zones, aesthetic disharmony, and lack of adherence to professional standards. These practices compromise safety, shorten material lifespan, and diminish architectural integrity. The study concludes that misuse of tiles in Nigerian public buildings results from a combination of poor regulation, weak professional oversight, and inadequate artisan training.  Addressing these challenges requires concerted effort involving regulators, professionals, and academic institutions to ensure material suitability, standards compliance, and design coherence in public building projects.