RIBA discusses 2016
housing design trends

In the last 12 months, RIBA Chartered Architects have ranked the housing design trends in greatest demand now and moving forward into the New Year.

The top four trends were listed as:

• Sustainable and energy conservation measures
  Heightened demand for sustainable materials, advanced insulation products, water conservation and recycling features.
• Larger extensions and bespoke new-build homes
  Due to an increase in land availability and a relaxation of planning restrictions.
• Adaptable designs
  Increasing demand for homes to make life easier for ageing occupants and live-in relatives.
• Family social hubs
  Multi-functional open-plan spaces remain highly desirable.

In correlation with the increasing ageing UK population, more people are planning ahead for later in life by seeking design solutions to facilitate easier living, not only for now but in future years.

For instance, property owners might be considering adapting the layout of the family home in order to accommodate for elderly family members, such as a ‘granny annex’.

The popularity of generous multi-functional living spaces – combining cooking, dining and living areas – shows no sign of diminishing whatsoever. Two-thirds (66 per cent) of RIBA Chartered Architects reported a demand in these types of housing designs.

Sustainability and energy conservation are no longer niche concerns but factor prominently in the design decisions of multiple home improvement clients. Indeed, 70 per cent of RIBA Chartered Architects anticipate an increase in advanced insulation products, while 66 per cent expect to see a rise in the use of solar or photovoltaic (PV) panels.

Jane Duncan, president, RIBA, said: “The appetite for building or improving your own home for your family and future shows no sign of abating, with architects experiencing increased demand from creative and ambitious homeowners.

“This new RIBA report gives a glimpse of what to expect in housing design for 2016 and beyond.

“It shows the insight, value for money and peace of mind that an architect can bring to any housing project.”

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