5 Architecture Trends for 2021

The welcome end to 2020 brings with it a renewed sense of optimism, as we look ahead with hope that life may this year regain a sense of stability and normality, and that 2021 will be a year that the history books remember for all the right reasons. The beginning of a new year also presents us with the opportunity to look ahead and predict the trends in architecture we expect to see across the next 12 months. In our annual architecture trends article, we asked Group Design Director Michael Lewis to give us our 5 Architecture Trends for 2021. This is what he came up with…

1. Authenticity
 

The meaning of the term ‘authenticity’ in architecture is much debated – as to its meaning, and as to whether it is genuinely possible. But when we reference authenticity at BSBG, it refers more to, as Michael puts it: “tactile, soulful experiences that have meaning.”

In this sense, the burgeoning desire for authenticity in architecture had already gained traction prior to the onset of COVID-19, and during the pandemic people had much more time to reflect upon the importance of finding joy and value in every living experience. Architects have a responsibility to deliver this, creating the possibility for people to engage with unique architecture and activities that feel genuine, unscripted and natural.
 

2. More technology
 

Developments in key areas of technology within architecture continue to make tremendous advancements as each year goes by. A constant flurry of new applications and software continues to offer up more dynamic ways for architects to produce work. One of the key elements of new tech in architecture is Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI has started to replace a great deal of the manual work architects would take on, as it offers a route to Generative Design - using a set of algorithms and presenting multiple design options that adhere to a pre-determined set of design requirements.

“Iterative AI will drive design further as more practices embrace Generative Design,” Michael says. “I also look at the growing availability of robotic construction techniques and developments in 3D printed technology as being two key components of the way in which we will push the industry forward throughout 2021.”

3. Carbon neutral design
 

Delivering efficient carbon neutral buildings is best by a range of challenges, however the demand among occupiers, from residential to commercial, continues to rise. Carbon neutrality within architecture refers to an approach focused on reducing and offsetting carbon energy used by a building – both during construction and during the lifecycle once delivered. Typical approaches involve the integration of passive design strategies, focus on the design of a high performance building envelope, the use of energy efficient HVAC and on-site renewable energy solutions, as well local procurement in terms of materials.

With the right approach and the right team, more developers are finding carbon neutrality within their reach, even in an unforgiving environment such as the kind we see for nine months of the year in Dubai. The reality is that carbon neutral buildings require creative thinking, and a real commitment to the goal. “This year will be more focused on green design,” Michael Lewis says. “We will see construction and operations that can deliver wellness in cities and buildings, balanced with efficient use of energy and materials.”
 

4. Consideration of the shift in transportation
 

“The shift to electric, autonomous vehicles over the next 10 to 20 years surely has to have a tremendous effect on the way we design today,” Michael states. “The way people move around our cities and the vehicle ownership patterns that shift with it will affect the way cities of the future are designed or retro-fitted, and I see this shift as something we must consider now.”

Autonomous vehicles will definitively change the way cities are planned and function. The planning for this shift requires informed decisions to be made that consider the sustainability of public transport, safeguarding public spaces and pedestrianism, and retaining ground level experience.

5. The arch renaissance
 

Are clean lines and edges set to take a backseat, as designers once again embrace arches and curves? Michael Lewis certainly thinks so. “Curves are back,” he proclaims. “I expect to see more archways and curves incorporated in modern design this year. There is a softness and elegance to curves, and there is no more fitting way to celebrate this than by incorporating an arch.”

Arches, as well as adding grandeur and sophistication to a building, also add an illusion of space where needed. They are as graceful and they are understated, and throughout 2021 the use of arches to define spaces is likely to be near the top of every designer’s wish list.