The architecture industry moves rapidly, with trends changing as people's needs evolve and innovations in technology and sustainability develop. Architects, builders and designers must keep up with these trends to provide relevant and impactful building solutions every year.
Looking into architecture trends for 2024, it's apparent that nature and sustainability are at the forefront of the industry. Learn more about these trends and how you can apply them in your own work, starting today.
Biophilic Design
A pattern you'll see throughout architectural trends in 2024 is the incorporation of nature and a need for spaces to contribute to our well-being. This is the concept of biophilic design, where designers seek to connect people with nature in built environments. Biophilic design is not just about adding more potted plants — it should be a key consideration throughout the entire design process and positively impact the experience of people who use the space.
As part of this trend, natural materials such as wood and stone are rising in popularity, as well as rooftop and indoor gardens, living plant walls and water features. Designers include biophilic principles in building design by mimicking nature and providing access to outdoor spaces with patios and balconies. You'll also see spaces that blend the indoors and outdoors through increased natural lighting, windows and airflow. These biophilic design elements will create healthy environments that reduce stress and promote well-being.
Sustainable Architecture
As we progress through the years, the need for more sustainable practices increases. In 2024, it's no longer a choice — it's a requirement, and architects are incorporating sustainability into buildings in every possible way.
As part of this initiative, architects will increase the energy efficiency of buildings with energy-saving equipment, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems and LED lighting. Building design will also decrease the need for heaters and air conditioners through proper ventilation, insulation and natural lighting from windows and skylights.
Designers will choose more sustainable materials throughout construction and decoration. This year, take more care to source materials locally and from eco-friendly suppliers. Recycled and natural materials that are high quality and long-lasting are also popular choices for sustainability. In particular, you'll see more bamboo, recycled plastic and reclaimed wood or steel. When combined, these practices will significantly reduce waste and carbon emissions.
Flexible, Multifunctional Spaces
How we live and work evolves as more people work from home or adopt hybrid work models. As a result, offices have to adapt to fluctuating attendance, and living spaces need to provide a productive work environment. This year, architects will design buildings with flexibility in mind so spaces can change according to individual needs.
Offices
For office spaces, this trend will bring more multi-purpose rooms with open layouts and adaptable furniture. Employees can change the room to suit their needs, such as converting individual desks into a collaborative space or creating quiet nooks through movable partitions. Offices will also adapt by including more homely elements — like meditation or recreational rooms — into their spaces.
Homes
In 2024, architects will need to consider how they can create flexible homes that adjust according to individual requirements. People may need to convert lounges into work zones and back throughout the week or easily change things to welcome new household members or guests. Whatever the case may be, this year is all about designing with change in mind.
Natural Colours
Colour will always be a key consideration throughout architectural design, as colour can affect us subconsciously and invoke specific feelings. This year, natural colours such as brown, blue and green have increased in popularity, most likely thanks to design trends focused on well-being and nature.
- BrownAdd more chocolate brown and warm, earthy colours to your designs going into 2024. The colour brown invokes feelings of safety, comfort and warmth. Brown colours also combine well with organic textures like wood.
- BlueAnother colour you'll see more of in 2024 is blue, especially robin's egg blue and shades of cobalt. Blue is a natural colour that brings feelings of tranquility and calmness.
- GreenGreen has been prevalent in design trends for a few years now, and this year will be no different. Shades of green — from muted sage green to bright emerald green — will be particularly popular in 2024. Green is another natural colour that makes people feel relaxed and hopeful.
Smart Technology Integration
While smart technology has become more popular in recent years, it will be even more prevalent throughout 2024. This year, technology architecture trends focus on incorporating smart devices into the design of the building itself and improving people's lives more than ever before.
In both homes and commercial spaces, architects will include devices that suit individual needs. In line with sustainability initiatives and energy efficiency, smart lighting systems and climate control will increase. Voice-activated controls will also be popular for more convenience, and smart security systems will enhance safety. As new technology emerges, architects and designers will have even more options to improve the functionality of buildings and make life easier.
Textures & Patterns
With a focus on sustainable practices, re-using materials and nature-inspired designs, it's no surprise that texture and the designs of the past have cropped up again this year. Here's how texture and patterns have impacted architectural design trends:
- TextureThe chalky, rough finish of lime wash is back. This trend shows that designers are creating more with texture in mind, especially with natural materials like wood or stone.
- PatternsIncorporating patterns and creating visual intrigue is a popular trend emerging this year. Irregular shapes, curved walls and interesting patterns are in.
Going into 2024, don't be afraid to use bold or visually interesting elements in architectural designs.
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Update your building designs to current architectural trends by adding Jonite's sustainable stone products. We have a wide range to choose from, including trench grates, floor drains, sump covers, ventilation grilles and street benches.
Jonite makes all their products with innovative, durable and high-performing reinforced stone that we developed in 1994. Since then, they've continued to improve the products to make them stronger and more environmentally friendly. Jonite's mission is to be sustainable in every aspect of our product cycle, from research to delivery.
