Architecture trends don’t only tell us what kind of buildings we can expect to see, but also the future that will wait for us in a few years. Luckily, all the trends that are on the rise make it seem like we have a bright period ahead of us. Let’s see what trends are emerging in San Diego and worldwide.
Green is pushing forward
For years, architects and designers pushed eco-friendly materials, but that’s simply not enough anymore. This year and in the future, we can expect to see the rise in vertical gardens and green rooftops. The buildings will also grow greener on the inside with indoor parks and living walls. Asian architects are really interested in this trend, so we’re seeing more and more vertical forests starting with Nanjing Green Towers, the first of their kind in Asia. Buildings like these can help solve the problem of air pollution and grayness of big cities. There is even the first ever green city to sprout in China with construction starting in 2020.
Interesting architecture
Now we think that we can finally say goodbye to dull, cookie-cutter buildings and really embrace innovative design and attractive results. One great example of this trend is San Diego. Our coastal city is seriously threatening to become an architecture hot spot in the US with numerous projects from top design firms. Just two years ago, the new ‘it spot’ The Pacific Gate was finished and became the city’s tallest building. These luxury condominiums attract the crème de la crème when it comes to clientele and every corner of this gorgeous building is covered with glamour and style. Plus, its edgy contemporary architecture and impressive height are reminiscent of Hong Kong and Tokyo, so we can really see the western architects embracing the trend of bold design.
Strong branding
When we’re talking about commercial spaces, especially offices, new trends are emerging every day. But one is really pushing forward—strong and smart branding. Architecture is used not only to create a functional space but also to showcase the company’s identity and philosophy. Good branding can increase the company’s sales, motivate the employees and represent the company’s values. For years, North American and European companies had branding figured out, but Asian corporations are also jumping on that train and working hard to boost their companies’ brand presence. For instance, there are companies specializing in interior design in Hong Kong which are now offering complete and meaningful branding experienced that carry the client’s brand across the space. The visual identity and brand applications that these experts can create have a significant effect on customers and workers and will just be more and more pronounced and smartly implemented with every year.
Disaster-safe building
Every few days, we hear about a new disaster. From typhoons and hurricanes to earthquakes and floods, we know what damage these destructive natural phenomena can bring with them. Cities like San Diego are also investing large funds into seismic activity research and gathering data that will help build safer and more resistant buildings. So, the new challenge for architects will be to create functional, attractive and eco-friendly buildings that are also disaster-proof. Just take a look at famous Taipei 101, Sabiha Gökçen airport in Istanbul or The Citicorp Center in NYC—they all use amazing engineering and design to stand tall before nature and withstand its power.
Mini design
The costs of building and maintaining a big residential property and the environmental impact it has, made many people choose to downsize and invest in smaller yet functional homes. As the interest in these mini designs is growing, architects are rushing to make compact living interesting, functional and perfectly comfortable for parents, children and seniors. Europe is really embracing this trend in recent years and it’s only expected to grow and develop. For instance, Britain’s new-built homes are the smallest in Europe, yet they don’t lack in terms of ideas, comfort and functionality. However, creating small homes isn’t an easy task, so this trend represents a real challenge for architects and designers.
If we’re to judge by 2019 architecture trends, we can expect to see better, safer and cleaner buildings and homes. Thanks to forward-thinking designers and architectures, people all around the globe will have a green present and even greener future without sacrificing the style and beauty.
