The UK is in the midst of a housing crisis for a number of reasons. For one thing, new supplies have been lagging for years. In addition, there has been a big drop in the amount of social housing. It could get worse in the future too as the housing stock gets older. In fact, there is a fear that 2.3 million people will be living in poor quality homes by 2045. What we want to look at today is how architects can help to solve the housing crisis. Then, if you need assistance with residential architecture in London, you can trust us.

Economical solutions

One of the issues at the moment that is limiting housing supplies is the higher costs. It is more expensive for various materials, labour, and other inputs. As a result, it can hurt the viability of projects.

Architects can provide fantastic solutions here. They could devise ways to build more cost effectively. For example, a good idea would be to make units simpler and more efficient in how they use the space. They could be seen as individual blocks. Then, the architect could arrange them to suit the site, ensuring it is more interesting and not simply one dimensional.

There are also plenty of opportunities to build more economically by exploring different materials and using them effectively. A great idea is to select durable finishes that will provide more value for a longer time. They don’t need to be utilitarian though; they could be aesthetically pleasing at the same time.

Community

Another important factor, whether it is residential architecture in London or any other location, is to design buildings to bring people together. Good architecture should offer excellent social value. It is especially important if you are designing denser blocks or estates to help maximise the housing supply.

Architects can do a number of things to create housing that focuses on the community. For example, it could be wide corridors that double as gathering spaces. Plus, community rooms as well as external terraces, courtyards and gardens should make people want to spend time together. You can also have various support services spaces for residents.

Health

Architects can even look at how they can work to improve health and wellbeing while tackling the housing crisis. A major thing is to look at air quality and the amount of natural light in buildings. Good designs here can ensure the orientation of the building is right to maximise air flows and light. They can do this economically instead of relying on artificial light and energy hungry HVAC systems.

Sustainability

Finally, architects can look at making developments sustainable. This is beneficial for all stakeholders. Crucially, it can reduce operating costs for housing developers and residents. It can even look at a broader sense and seek to improve the wider area.

There are various options here. Things like renewable energy systems are more accessible than ever before. In addition, architects can ensure the building envelopes are durable, long lasting, and maximise energy performance. Ensuring sustainability can make sure the housing will last for a long time.

Do you need help with residential architecture in London?

Coffey Architects understands that our industry and the experts in it can be a big help with solving the housing crisis. We are happy to play our part. Clients can come to us for the best support with any project. We have experience with designing housing for local authorities and have also done large Brownfield redevelopments too. In every case, we want to deliver quality, sustainable homes.

So, if you are thinking about residential architecture in London, feel free to speak to us. We would love to see what you have in mind.