Residential Architecture: Why it Matters

Residential architecture relates to the design and construction of various types of dwellings from condos to cottages, with a high focus on combining aesthetics with functionality and form. Whether you’re renting or buying, it’s important to consider the architecture of your home. While the appearance of your home is important, the architecture of your home relates to a number of key factors that could impact your experience of living there in the long run. 

Moving to a new place can be a complicated endeavor requiring detailed planning and consideration. After choosing a location, negotiating a price and securing lease details, assessing the architecture of a property is often overlooked. Rather than being an afterthought, residential architecture should be a primary consideration, especially if you are planning to live in your property for an extended period of time. Here are some reasons why.

Function 

In architecture, form follows function. In the case of a new home, this refers to how well it meets your practical needs, such as the amount of time you are likely to spend there and how many people will be living in it in addition to whether it will be used for other purposes such as a home office. 

When considering function, it’s also a good idea to gauge how well you can navigate the space, especially if you or a member of your family has mobility issues. In some cases, choosing a home with built-in mobility aids, or a one-level home (such as a ranch-style house) can be of benefit. It may be that the home you are considering has multiple benefits, but is lacking a number of key elements. In this case, a trained architect can help you to make adjustments to the building, provided you have the appropriate permissions. This is another reason why residential architecture is so important.

Longevity

In addition to our needs changing over time, the needs of your property can change, too. In a new building, you can be relatively sure that everything will be in working order, but older properties can be prone to a range of challenges including structural damage, faulty electrics and poor drainage. Whether you live in a rental or a house of your own, proper maintenance and modernization is essential to protect your home from damage while keeping you safe and healthy. 

While many home repairs can be carried out yourself, there may be instances where hiring a certified and trained professional is necessary. This is especially important where electrical work is concerned, as outmoded circuitry can present a major hazard. Properly assessing your building for any heat, water or electrical issues is essential before moving in, and especially so if you are considering remodeling or renovation by a qualified architect.

Investment Value

Structural integrity and quality design in residential architecture are both essential to the value of a property, whether you are considering selling it or letting it out to other residents. When it comes to changing or adding architectural elements to your home, it is important to view it as an investment. 

Cutting corners may save you money in the long run, but poor quality work on your property could result in problems in the long term, such as a drop in rental income or capital. It’s important to seek out a trained and qualified architect so you can ensure that any adjustments to your home will be of sound quality and will stand the test of time.

Energy Efficiency

Architects are trained in the design of houses that allow in as much natural light as possible, so if you are considering a new build, you might wish to take your cues from classic mid-century modern houses, which were designed with floor-to-ceiling windows to enable a sense of closeness to nature. This can also reduce the amount of artificial light you need to use, saving on energy and money. This is a really important thing to take into consideration with residential architecture and how your home will appeal to others if you ever need to sell.

Residential Architecture Personalized

In some cases, you may have grand designs for a renovation, or in others you might even be in the process of planning to build your own home. Seeking help from a residential architect services professional can help, both with the planning stages of your project and with the logistics of bringing your vision to life.