Has Covid changed where and how we want to live
As restrictions start to lift, research from a wide range of sources has shown that UK households are looking to change their living arrangements due to lockdown experiences. Whether it is a place by the sea, an escape to the country or a city apartment, the pandemic has changed the kind of property we want to buy.
CHQ Architects and DMWR Architects comprise a talented mix of architects, interior designers and 3D visualisers and work on a wide range of residential projects. We take a look at the latest residential developments incorporating some of the new priorities on homebuyers’ wish list.
Waterfront living
Whether by the sea, lake or canal, waterfront living remains a firm favourite with homebuyers. All over the world, buyers will pay a premium for living next to the water. Wide-open views, a fresh water scent and tranquil relaxing walks gives a sense of well-being. Studies have shown that living near water has the potential to make us feel calmer and even sleep better, which after this year will be important for many homebuyers.
Project spotlight
Herne House comprises 10 luxury seaside two-bedroom apartments, in Herne Bay, Kent all with private parking and private amenity spaces. DMWR took this project on after planning was consented by others and amended the scheme to suit the client’s needs and requirements. Several flats have been sold off-plan as second homes and Airbnb investments.
“Good architecture is about designing homes for the way that people want to live now. As we are increasingly removed from nature, when we get a location near the water, we ensure that we make the most of it. But building near water can have its challenges so it is essential that the architect is sensitive to this. The close proximity to the Bay’s Costal Protection Zone at Herne House required a specific skill set and knowledge but we are delighted that the project is now moving towards completion,” Barry Harper-Smith, Managing Director CHQ Architects.
Re-connecting with nature
Since lockdown hit, more people are thinking about their environment and how important it is for their general wellbeing. With offices shut and companies having to accept home workers, an exodus from cities to the countryside may well be on the cards. The benefits of living in the countryside include cleaner air, better psychological health, more space and a slower pace of life. With improved WIFI connectivity, homebuyers can really have the best of both worlds.
Project spotlight
CHQ Architects were appointed to produce a progressive design at Granary Barn, in Stevenage, Herts, whilst also respecting its rural setting. The brief was to sympathetically replace an existing dilapidated barn with a contemporary barn-style home. Additional challenges included the client’s wish to produce an eco-friendly build, which CHQ Architects responded to with the use of a timber frame, an air source heat pump and photovoltaic panels on the roof.
“For this particular project, what was fundamental was to make the most of the views of open countryside. The kitchen, dining and lounge area are served by two large bi-fold doors, which open out onto a private patio offering uninterrupted views. The main bedroom also boasts a large feature window with views to the west. Good architecture is about connecting with your surroundings, especially when surrounded by nature,” Barry Harper-Smith, Managing Director CHQ Architects.
First steps on the ladder
The pandemic has caused a huge shift in the way people have been living. Many grown up children have spent the last 12 months living out the lockdowns with their parents. With socialising and holidays mostly unavailable, many first-time buyers have been able to save for a deposit, leading to a need for more first-time buyer apartments.
Project spotlight
Whitelocke House in Hounslow offers the perfect starter home with studio and one-bedroom apartments. There’s no need for the additional expense of a car because it is located in the centre of Hounslow with all the amenities this urban area has to offer. Whitelocke House is a conversion of an 80’s office into 34 residential flats under permitted development right conditions. They are aimed at first-time buyer young couples and singles.
“The challenge for us as architects is to ensure that we are creating stylish and functional spaces, even when they are small. It is now accepted that most first-time buyers in London can only afford limited space but that doesn’t mean they have to compromise on their living arrangements. It is up to us as architects to come up with innovative solutions for small spaces. At Whitelocke House, we considered proper space standards in habitable rooms to ensure appropriate living conditions and good access for the less abled,” Barry Harper-Smith, Managing Director DMWR Architects.
Creating communities
Covid has forced people into isolation and also given a greater emphasis on the importance of building communities. New developments must now fully match the needs of the modern buyer and the way they are living. This includes the importance of how good design can create real connections, reduce loneliness and bring about positive change.
Project spotlight
St Nicholas House in Luton is a conversion of an 80's office into 72 micro living residential flats. Micro living is part of the Co-Living residential sector. DMWR took this project on after planning was consented. Co-living is an emerging form of housing within the UK and international residential sector for people typically between the ages of 25-40. With the rise in the shared economy and the increasing demand for housing, the idea of sharing communal spaces among residents has proved to be an innovative and efficient solution to modern problems of affordability and space.
“Co-living gives its residents the opportunity to share spaces with each other but also share values and interests. When residents step out of their smart and contemporary flat at St Nicholas, they can connect with other residents and expand their living experience. For the architect, it is important to ensure that although the apartments are small, they are highly functional and provide everything that homebuyers require. Co-living gives residents access to buildings which feature a whole raft of amenities. This can include anything from a reception area, library, cinema, work space and laundry room as well as easy access to retail and café culture. It’s possible to encourage community spirit with the type of property that we build. People need communities to thrive and the future is building to address society issues,” Barry Harper-Smith, Managing Director DMWR Architects.