Efficiency is a popular idea in construction and design, although it is usually attached to energy and how to use less of it. Architecture trends, however, have plenty of room to accommodate design efficiency – especially in terms of space and materials. Here are some ways to incorporate efficiency into architecture and achieve great results.
- Think “Tract House”. Don’t cringe yet – tract house doesn’t have to mean “plain and unoriginal”. The idea is to apply the method of construction while still creating beautiful designs. Using standard construction methods such as 2-by-6 frames, trussed roofs, and taking advantage of prefabricated components means that construction can move quickly and efficiently and carpenters have fewer plans to learn.
- Shrinking Square Footage. Homes in America have been growing and growing in size over the last several decades of the 20th century and into the 21st century. However, the economic climate over the last several years combined with a focus on energy efficiency has led to a revival of the small home. Skilled architects can create open, airy, and comfortable homes that echo the mid-century concepts of simplicity and minimalism and use a fraction of the square footage used in the McMansions of the 1990s.
- Finish For Less. High-end finishes used to be a must-have: a new kitchen without stainless steel and granite was unthinkable ten years ago. Today’s finishes are more creative, flexible, and budget-friendly and when paired with good design they are just as beautiful. Shop around for materials and negotiate for deals.
Incorporating efficiency is one of many architecture trends that will continue to be in the forefront of design. To learn how Gelotte Hommas can incoporate efficient designs in your next project, contact us.