The current pandemic continues to affect many aspects of our lives. Many businesses have had to rethink their way of conducting business and many of us now find ourselves working from home. But how will the effects of the pandemic affect our home life? What changes will the pandemic have on architectural designs?
The Impact of Home Design on Mental Health
Research conducted by the Royal Institute of British Architects has revealed the impact the pandemic has had on how people wish to work and live whilst spending an increased amount of time at home.
According to this research, a majority of homeowners believe that the design of their homes has affected their mental wellbeing over the last year.
Spending more time at home during the peaks of lockdown caused 11% of people to feel more stressed.
Furthermore, 23% of people surveyed believe that a better-designed home would help increase their happiness. An additional 31% also believe a better-designed home will help them relax more. (A struggle a lot of us have experienced lately.)
Design and Construction
One way in which home design may change as a result of the pandemic is that there will be a greater need for adaptable layouts. As the pandemic has intensified our connections to our homes, there may be a greater need for buildings that can accommodate a wide range of services and functions. People may require more dedicated spaces for activities such as reading, exercise, napping and entertainment.
Additionally, with many of us now working remotely there has been an increased emphasis on the need for a functional home office. It has been made evident throughout the pandemic that people are enjoying the ability to work remotely. So much so in fact that many are suggesting that a more flexible approach to working may be the new norm.
Other ideas that have become increasingly popular over the last year include that of “smart kitchens”. This is due to the rise of the hands-free mindset which will help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Pantries may become more prominent as people wish to take fewer trips to the supermarket.
Shopping for Interior Design Online
One type of business that has actually managed to thrive throughout the pandemic is that of online interior design services. Throughout the pandemic and through lockdown restrictions, many people looked to refresh their homes and without physical shops to go to would instead look online. Digital interior design services benefited as a result of this with people having an increased willingness to make big design decisions virtually.
Outdoor Spaces
We have all spent a considerable amount of time indoors over the last year throughout the pandemic. This has only served to increase our appreciation for outdoor spaces and nature as a whole. As a result of this, there has been an increased demand within architecture for private outdoor spaces. Architects will be required to get creative, integrating the outdoors in even the smallest of homes. This may involve more experimentation with ideas like roof gardens, porches and balcony spaces. Additionally, in an attempt to bring nature into living spaces, there may be an increased demand for folding glass doors to bring the outside in.
Hiring Architects and Builders Post Pandemic
There are a range of factors that may play a part in the hiring of architects and builders post-pandemic. For example, RIBA’s future trends survey has revealed that the pandemic alongside Brexit has left 40% of practices short-staffed. If this issue is not resolved it may mean that there will not be enough architects and builders to keep up with the increased demand for home design. Additionally, construction product shortages and price inflation may make pricing project costs and scheduling designs increasingly challenging.
Decorating a Better Mental Wellbeing
As we have previously touched on before, the current pandemic has served as a catalyst for awareness of personal mental health and wellbeing. In an attempt to create a more uplifting environment for ourselves whilst at home, many look to their interior design to reflect how we wish to feel. From vibrant wall patterns to quirky decorative pieces, there is a range of simple design ideas that can be implemented for a more relaxing and joyous atmosphere while at home.
Greenway Associates are experienced architects that can guide you through every step of the process – even after the pandemic. From planning approvals, construction drawings, interior design, and overseeing the project, they are here to help. They have been in the midst of the rush but are keen to keep people’s dreams coming true and give them the dream homes they deserve.
