Architecture Post COVID-19: What Is the Future of Architecture
Design and innovation are the driving forces behind architecture. With COVID-19 changing the definition of ‘normal,’ the field of architecture seeks to address the various challenges put forth by the pandemic. While it may not last long, this is a good time to anticipate possible unknown situations in the future and learn how to react to them.
In this article, we will look at architectural plans that businesses and individuals can rely on in the post-COVID world.
What Does the Future of Architecture Look Like?
ARCHITECTURE AS A PROFESSION POST COVID-19
Collaboration Amongst Disciplines
In the future, architecture will take an interdisciplinary approach where the industry will collaborate with other sectors to overcome challenges. These sectors include agriculture, mobility, and personal health, to name a few. Adaptive reuse, the process of using existing structures to serve a new purpose, will also gain popularity. “Online sourcing of interior design products is going to be even more important for designers and brands to invest in.”
New Projects
Newer projects will consider the sustainability of the structures. It will become critical to building fast responding spaces. Emergency responses and adaptability will become some of the main factors for future constructions.
Reshaping Homes
As people are spending more time indoors, the concept of homes will change. The architectural design will focus more on rethinking the ‘new’ needs and requirements of houses. For instance, ways to include more natural light and green spaces within the house, or transitional entrances will be considered to make homes comfortable.
Newer Parameters
‘Health’ will be another aspect that will determine how structures are made. New configurations will be used keeping social distancing in mind. Materials that prevent the spreading of diseases will be used. The idea of modular building design, lightweight structures, and prefabricated elements will keep evolving.
Home Design After COVID-19: What Is the Future of Interior Design
THE FUTURE OF ARCHITECTURE ON A CITY LEVEL
Reimagining Public Spaces
Social distancing in public spaces is the reality now. With the rules of social distancing changing frequently, public spaces need to be more flexible when it comes to physical engagement. They need to be able to cater to social distancing norms as long as it lasts, and accommodate people once the rules end.
Easier Transportation/Mobility
Social distancing has made using public transportation tricky. This is why city residents are being encouraged to walk or cycle to places or use personal transportation. That means the future of architecture will have to accommodate these requirements.
ARCHITECTURE FIRMS POST COVID-19
Continuing Business
Firms need to understand how to manage staff, technology, supply chain, and information to stay on their feet and maintain their reputation. They will base their decisions on best practices and use insights from previous major events that impacted architecture.
Restructuring Office
The firms will have to consider different aspects of their business structure, which includes their management, use of technology, and even recruiting. They will have to come up with solutions that will minimise further disruption and create new opportunities for earning. They need to figure out how to reduce vulnerability, as well.
Changing Work Models
Businesses have adopted remote working methods and embraced the gig economy. Those who weren’t quick to adapt had to test how and where they could work, like having fewer people in the office. Firms will have to determine which work model can help them boost their business.
YOUNG & ASPIRING ARCHITECTS
Students and Recent Grads
The future for architects may look bleak right now, but new students should focus on the long term when they apply for jobs as the economy will eventually recover. Fresh graduates need to build a strong portfolio to showcase their skills and ideas. For the time being, they may even have to consider opportunities outside architecture that utilise their skills.
Young Professionals
Young professionals may indeed find it difficult to find new job opportunities or stay relevant in the firms they work in. But, it is crucial that they maintain open communication with their managers. They can even work towards gaining licenses in countries where applicable and find ways to benefit their current job or expand their potential. They need to realise that there are still numerous opportunities within and outside the practice.
The future of architecture will be different from what we know. Even when the coronavirus is eradicated, this pandemic will force architects and architectural firms to be prepared for similar viruses or new social norms that the viruses can suddenly bring.
About the Author:
Vivek is a global sourcing expert and has worked with and assisted clients with their sourcing requirements for 1000+ projects in his 15+ years in the industry. With the aim to fulfill the evolving needs and demands of architects, interior designers, project managers, and HNIs, he started Arcedior – the most loved, curated products platform with 50,000+ products from 500+ brands spanning 30 countries. Being a design enthusiast with an eye for details, he also started a group on LinkedIn called ‘Design Leaders Roundtable – A Collaborative Community for Architects & Interior Designers’ which now has over 4K members. In his free time, he loves to travel with his family.
