How today’s architects are designing homes that feel cozy & celebration-ready
Dinesh Chandra
Architects nowadays are creating homes that combine comfort and beauty. The homeowner of today is seeking the best possible experience in the home environment, and this is being represented in ways such as celebrating special occasions (like holidays and family gatherings) within their homes. The building industry is focusing on the design of homes to provide comfort and attractiveness for homeowners, as well as functionality and a large influx of natural light.
One of the most important trends in modern home design today, and how many homeowners feel about their homes, is to increase the amount of natural light in a home. Because homes that have a greater amount of natural light are often perceived to be more open, welcoming, and energetic, architects are paying special attention to the placing/size of windows and doors to maximise exposure to sunlight and to provide the best possible medium for reproducing the exterior colours of a home, which is especially true when considering how the home will be decorated for holiday customs and/or celebrations.
Open floor plans
There has been an increase in the popularity of designing homes using a concept called “open floor plans, and this has been proven to help families communicate better because the home will have a common area where all family members can spend their time together to remain close. Open floor plans will also help households maintain good communication during family gatherings and major holidays, and this functionality is very useful to families every day.
Windows that are positioned in such a way that they allow adequate airflow into the home will enhance the overall experience of living in a well-designed home.
Comfortable homes
Many people today desire to live in a comfortable home. Architects are now incorporating measures for reducing sound and temperature variation within homes, as well as providing good air quality. The rise of high-quality uPVC windows is a growing consideration because they help reduce noise from outside, control dust and other air pollutants from entering the home, AND provide the best insulative properties for keeping heat/energy from escaping. They also provide for a quiet, calm re-entry, making them attractive for people living in urban environments with dense populations.
In addition to quality windows, materials, and finishes used play a major role in creating premium yet inviting homes. Rather than using heavy ornamentation as previously done, many architects are now choosing more simplified forms, such as those made from natural materials like wood, stone, glass, and soft textiles. This allows for an elegant and warm environment without the addition of any clutter. The selection of contemporary window frames with simple lines and small profiles allows them to integrate seamlessly into these types of spaces.
Climate-responsive design
Climate-responsive design is another area receiving increased attention. Home designs that allow the homeowner to maintain comfort regardless of climate conditions year-round are being developed. Thanks to properly installed ventilation systems, shaded openings, and energy-efficient windows, homes can stay cool in summer and warm in winter, improve family comfort when gathering for a special occasion, and reduce energy needs and electric costs.
Equally vital is the aspect of practical usability versus safety; today’s window systems are durable, readily operable, and require minimal maintenance compared to those found previously. For instance, most contemporary windows have been developed with smooth, rolling sliding mechanisms, safe locking systems, and multiple opening styles for families to make their homes more functional and family-oriented when guests or visitors are present.
Through the study of colour, material selection, and thoughtful planning, modern architects build their buildings with the intention of creating an environment that promotes community and emotional health. Architects are designing modern homes so that large areas of glass allow as much natural light to enter, provide maximum ventilation & natural breezes, create a feeling of privacy in a soundproofed area, and have a flow-through design throughout the home that facilitates a sense of enjoyment and relaxation during daily activities and during those special times when family and friends gather together. These features collectively create homes where other people can live happily daily, as well as when they celebrate special times/events.
Dinesh Chandra is Founder, Shankar Fenestrations & Glasses
