RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) has released a report forecasting the greatest design trends in housing in the UK for 2016, based off a survey of 250 RIBA charted practices that are currently active in the housing design market. Noticeable trends include an increase in sustainable, energy conservation measures such as sustainable materials, improved insulation and water conservation/recycling; large extensions and bigger homes; housing designed for aging relatives/occupants; and flexible open-plans for family gathering.
Fifty-five percent of architects reported that single houses and extensions were getting larger, thanks to an increase in available land and relaxation of planning restrictions.
With the growing aging population, there has also been high-demand for homes to facilitate easier living for the elderly demographic. Adaptations for simpler independent living, as well as adjusting existing layouts to accommodate an older relative are both in higher demand.
Sixty-six percent of architects report a demand for multi-function living spaces, with a combination of cooking, dining, living and access to gardens/outdoors. Seventy percent of architects report an increased demand for improved insulation products and 66% predict an increase in the use of photovoltaic panels.
“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,” said RIBA President Jane Duncan. “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.”
