Architecture is a field that is never static. Being an integral part of human life, architecture changes and shifts as human lives evolve to serve and adapt to the needs of the present while also blazing a path to the future. Innovation and change essentially fuel the progression of the field ultimately giving way to new ideas and concepts.

As change and development goes by, a shift occurs in what is perceived as the new normal. While some methods or designs from ages ago are now obsolete some continue to thrive. It is all about how a certain architectural concept fits into the needs of today and the future to come. 

As a result of all these changes and the sync of human life and architecture, trends prop up, regionally and globally in accordance with what is necessary. While the waves of trends come and go, some have an everlasting presence as they become a necessity. 

There are a few such trends of architecture that have made their mark not only on the today of the industry but have also made a mark for themselves in the future of architecture. 

Here’s a look at some of these trends and why they’re here to stay: 

SMART TECH INTEGRATED BUILDINGS 

One of the biggest trends in architecture at the moment is the venture of smart tech integrated systems. Be it in the commercial or the residential sector, smart tech powered buildings are on the rise. The smart tech integration of buildings is the result of the trending Internet of Things.

The Internet of Things concept basically stands for a technological concept wherein physical objects are tied into a centrally controlled network powered by the internet and technology. Speaking of architecture in particular, this could include things like the light fixtures, air conditioners, fans, refrigerators, locks or even decor items like curtains being chosen strategically to be gelled with the smart technology.

Doing so, integrates most functions of a space into a single network which can be centrally controlled through a mobile device. The convenience, easy management and flexibility offered by smart tech has made it a favorite amongst architects and consumers alike. While the trend began with the addition of external devices, smart tech has now become an integral part of architecture in both the residential and commercial sector.

The trend of smart tech buildings is rising rapidly and is definitely here to stay as a way of life! 

VIRTUAL REALITY COLLABORATION 

Next up on the list is the amalgamation of virtual reality and architecture promoting better collaboration. This trend has equally to do with the design and creation end of construction as well as consumer dealing. For architecture, this technology has translated into an extremely useful asset.

On the design end, virtual reality has allowed designers to be more precise and accurate in their designs. Through VR one is able to comprehend and experience a 3d mapping of the design making it much easier to see it as a whole and make improvements accordingly. Through VR it has also become easier for architects to collaborate with other people that are part of the construction process to convey their vision better.

This reduces the margin for error and enables better collaboration. On a consumer end, being able to experience the design before it is even built can help ensure that the designs are point perfect to expectations so as to avoid waste or budgetary issues that can come with constant changes while constructing.

The VR technology has certainly made a huge difference in optimizing the architectural process and thus is a trend that’s bound to stick in the industry. 

PREFABRICATED CONSTRUCTION 

One of the most recent and most revolutionary of the architectural trends is the trend of prefabricated construction. Prefabricated or modular construction is essentially ushering in a new era in architecture and construction. Prefabricated construction is a different genre altogether that has been getting a lot of appreciation and attention.

If one optS for a pre fabricated structure, the structure features, elements such as walls, floor, roofs etc are all manufactured in a controlled setting. The elements are then transported to the final site of construction where they are assembled and aligned with the fixtures to set up the final building.

Architects and consumers alike have been embracing this method of construction as a new more sustainable option. Not only are prefabricated structures a lot more affordable but are also quicker to construct and have a lower impact on the environment over long spans of conventional construction.

While already the demand for modular homes is on the rise amongst new homeowners, the method is also starting to do well in the commercial segment and is definitely going to have a huge spot in the future of architecture as well. 

BIOPHILIC CENTERED DESIGNS 

Biophilia centered designs have been trending for quite some time now. The importance of biophilia in architecture and design has been recognised and is thus becoming an integral part of the field and for all the right reasons.

The world is currently at a point where action related to the environment and climate can no longer stand as discussion but needs active response. Countries across the world have their targets of bringing their countries to a carbon neutral stance over the next few decades. India too has a target to hit net zero emissions by the year 2070.

Amidst such commitments and goals, architecture as a field too has responded to this urgent need by attempting to incorporate biophilic elements increasingly in designs to help do their part in the environment’s betterment while also helping reinforce the connection between humans and the environment they live in.

Features like vertical gardens, green corners, skylights, garden courtyards etc are increasingly being embraced as a pursuit to biophilic architecture. Both as a necessity and as a want, the trend for biophilic design is thus bound to stick around as the new much needed normal in architecture. 

RETHINKING THE MATERIALS: Sustainable Architecture 

The most important factor to bringing any structure or design to fruition is the right materials. Materials are what form the essence, aesthetic and practicality of a building to perfection. As times have changed, material innovations too have been increasing to keep up with the needs of today while accommodating the needs of tomorrow giving rise to a whole new segment of materials as well as a switch to some traditional materials.

The driver of this change is the constant pursuit for sustainable architecture. Being one of the biggest industries in the world, the AEC sector has been attempting to respond to the call for global sustainability through changing and updating practices which also includes rethinking the materials used. While some materials have a toxic or carbon intensive formulation, some might even be harmful to users of a structure in the long run.

This is why architects have been looking to greener and more sustainable material options. This includes going back to traditional materials that are ecologically responsible, looking into new green materials, plant based materials and even opting for repurposed materials to reduce waste.

All in all the shift in the way materials are chosen and envisioned is a change that is hardly temporary. Rather it is a lifestyle change for the industry that we believe will continue to define the industry's future as well. 

Overall, the very nature of trends is that they come and go. However, certain trends act as such trail blazers that they set a new path for the industry to embark upon. The above trends have certainly done just that which has made them an integral part of the architecture of today and tomorrow and rightly so!