The American Institute of Architects has recently published the results of its annual survey on home design trends. The results show clearly how the pandemic has changed the way that people want to live around the globe.
As expected, the requirement for a home office has reached all-time highs increasing by a staggering 39% in the third quarter of 2020. The survey also showed how improvements in the health and welfare categories have grown. There are items in this category that didn’t even get a mention in the 2019 survey. Twenty-three percent of architects’ clients now request a yoga or exercise space and 43% a flex space.
The number of people looking for improved indoor air quality increased from 25% to 39% over the year and the task lighting requirement increased by 7% to 27%.
Covid-19 kept us at home and so residents became more intimately aware of their home surroundings and of the environmental and architectural shortfalls of their properties.
Director city strategy and place at Urbis, Michael Stott, says that complaints about homes range from lack of soundproofing or natural light, to open floorplans, and small outdoor spaces.
It is likely that the demand for more outdoor space will grow as people are happier when they have plenty of access to the outdoors. Stott believes that even high-density accommodation will have greater access to the outdoors by way of terraces and shared garden spaces.
Nigel Givoni, Fridcorp chief executive pointed to the company’s most recent development. It’s a mixed-use development in Hurstville, south Sydney. It’s called Beyond and it incorporates several wellness concepts.
The project includes a podium that measures 3500 square metres. It includes facilities both indoors and out such as a fitness and yoga studio complete with sauna, a games room, community garden, private dining, and lounge areas, firepits and a meditation deck.
All apartments have air purification and water filtration systems. They are also equipped with circadian lighting which is said to promote deep sleep. Floor to ceiling windows and large balconies ensure that the residents get plenty of natural light.
Residential property will continue to develop around the health and welfare demands of the residents as people learn to enjoy the comfort of more convenient homes.