Architecture is an ever evolving field. Over time as the prevailing circumstances change, consumer demands also change. New inventions, ventures and trends all around usher in a new era for the industry every now and then. From building materials, to layouts to techniques, things keep on changing and developing to line up with futuristic possibilities. Naturally, architects and designers have to adapt to these changes, coming up with creative solutions to modern world problems through their designs and work. Since the new year has begun, certain trends are expected to navigate the way the industry goes on throughout the year. From futuristic construction methods to technological boosts, this year's architectural trends are ones to watch out for. 

Here is a round up of architectural trends that we believe will be the running theme for the year 2022. 

OPEN AND MULTIPURPOSE LAYOUTS 

Since the pandemic set in, life and lifestyles have had to undergo a drastic change. With people having to restrict themselves to the confines of their homes, the house has had to serve multiple purposes. Being a school for kids, an office for adults, a place to exercise, a place to unwind all in one. This has led to a change in the kind of layout that is both functional and desirable in the post/amongst pandemic world. This change has essentially been the rising need for more spacious layouts and multipurpose spaces throughout the house. The idea is to create an open layout, with fewer boundations and division through walls, even combining certain spaces in the house, to create one large space for instance a kitchen combined with a dining area and living room instead of three separate closed off spaces. This creates an environment that feels more open and airy within the home, as stepping outside becomes difficult amongst the fears of the virus. 

INDUSTRIAL CHIC ARCHITECTURE 

The industrial style of architecture is expected to prevail in 2022. The industrial style or industrial chic, is a step away from traditional architecture. With a completely different and raw look, industrial chic architecture focuses on achieving a mechanical and unfinished look, giving a rustic look to a space. Exposed metal beams, unconcealed fixtures, and rustic rough interiors are the highlight features of this style. This style utilizes natural materials like bricks, wood and different metals to achieve the edgy and modern geometric look. Irrespective of the kind, commercial or residential, industrial style of architecture can amp up any space with ease, giving it a unique look altogether. 

BUILDING AUTOMATION

Building automation is archi“TECH”ture at its finest. With the technological and digitalisation wave taking over the globe, and transforming human lives, it is bound to have its influence on architecture and design as well. One of the most trendy outcomes of the union of tech and architecture has been smart architecture, or essentially creation of structures that are smart i.e. automated. Buildings planned to accommodate futuristic technologies, through automation and tying of different features into a central network is what smart architecture is all about. It aims to make buildings more efficient and lives all the more comfortable. Smart homes and offices are definitely going to be a popular demand this year as more and more people lean on technology to amplify their buildings.

THE ECHO OF SUSTAINABILITY 

The necessity and demand for more sustainable and eco friendly structures has been echoing all around, especially over the past couple of years. Naturally the drive to create more sustainable and environmentally sound buildings is going to be prevalent this year as well. Sustainable architecture will see a bunch of different additions. Beginning with biophilic designs that utilize greenery in the interior as well as exterior for both aesthetic and environmental benefit. Further, the inclination towards sustainable and eco friendly building materials and methodology is set to increase more. Sustainable architecture is thus bound to evolve and be widely chosen to create structures that look and do good for the planet too. 

THE COMEBACK OF CURVES  

Away from the straight line and geometric monotony, 2022 is set to see the comeback of curves and arches in architecture. As vintage elements and features are making a comeback, curves and arch ways are one of the features set to rise in popularity. Expert’s believe that this year is one of soft and non intimidating shapes replacing the sharp edges and straight lines that have been utilized for quite some time now. From interiors to exteriors, curves can be set anywhere and everywhere to give a flowing and beautiful look yet keep it modern. Curvy structures and arches have a traditional charm to them, which can be well amplified to create contemporary designs that truly stand out. 

INCORPORATING THE OUTDOORS 

In the post/ongoing pandemic era, the need for creation of secluded outdoor spaces that are private to homes and offices have become a necessity to say the least. As stepping out or using communal facilities has become tricky due to the pandemic, architects and consumers alike are realizing the need to incorporate the indoors with the outdoors. Everyone needs an escape now and then, a way to connect with nature while being safe, thus developing outdoor spaces would serve the purpose well. Depending on the amount of spaces available, patios, lawns, backyards, balconies, or terrace gardens/areas are some of the options that could be a trendy pick to incorporate the year, giving each space its own tranquil environment. Another feature of the outdoor indoor combination is the design feature of skylights. Skylights are little pockets to nature, installed on roofs, giving a view of the outside, adding a touch of brightness and liveliness to a space. 

REMODEL ON THE RISE 

An architectural trend set to lead this year, is the preference to remodeling and renovation over new construction from the ground up. This is in line with the sustainable and eco friendly approach of architecture. Instead of starting a new construction, which would consume a lot of energy, resources and capital while also releasing a ton of dust and debris into the air, this year may see a lot of remodeling. This would mean that existing basic structures could be developed and refurbished to one’s preference, giving its layout and design a complete transformation if needed without the hassle of a brand new construction.

THE NEW NORMAL: PREFABRICATED BUILDINGS  

The advent of prefabricated manufactured buildings into the market is fairly recent. However, architects and consumers are beginning to become familiar with this technique. The prefabricated buildings technology entails taking the virtual drawings of architects and 3D printing each part of the house in a controlled facility. These pieces are then transported and simply installed on location, creating a usable space. This approach saves money, time needed for a project to be actualised while giving architects the freedom to get creative, not having to worry about how materials fit into their designs. This also is sustainable in the sense that as construction time lowers, the energy consumed to create a building goes down as well as the need to dig into natural resource reserves also decreases, creating cutting edge structures that are stunning and hassle free. 

To conclude, as the new year begins, new trends and new possibilities for the architectural industry also open up. From greater focus on sustainability to the incorporation of technology, architectural advances this year are sure to create futuristic structures that are both gorgeous and practical. We hope the above trends inspire you for a different approach this new year.