The first Monday of October is a significant day for two reasons; it is simultaneously the UN’s World Habitat Day and the International Union of Architects’ World Architecture Day. There was a big overlap in the themes this year, with a focus on the global housing crisis. Notably, both were backing the idea that housing is a human right and should therefore be more accessible. Let’s have a closer look here, then if you want to work with creative experts to create exceptional residential architecture in London, you can contact us.

Crisis

Sadly, there is a global housing crisis. Several factors are to blame, including building costs, labour shortages, land availability, policies, population growth, changing demographics, and jobs. Additionally, natural disasters and wars destroy homes and cause massive displacement. The design of housing is also to blame to an extent; does it effectively support different types of living?

The scale of the crisis is astonishing. UN figures show over 3 billion people around the world don’t have access to suitable housing. Their data also finds 1.1 billion people are living in informal settlements. Unfortunately the true scale of homelessness is unknown because of under-reporting.

How to improve access to housing?

The simple response is to build more homes. However, that is incredibly challenging and alone isn’t enough. Building for building sake is inefficient and wasteful. It could actually have a bigger long term negative, especially if you build housing that is inaccessible and unsuitable. Ultimately, the goal should be to build better, satisfying what people need now and in the future. As a top name for residential architecture in London, we can do just that for clients.

A key thing to do is ensure the focus is on housing as a human right. That means moving away from the view that homes are private assets. Countries like Singapore have great models here; the government builds and owns homes, making them available for affordable rent. Creating more affordable and accessible housing, and providing financial support, is vital.

It’s also important to ensure we’re creating accessible housing that suits how people want to live. They should match different family structures, including multi-generational living. Plus there should be homes for people who want to live alone while being part of a community. Catering for co-living and mobile lifestyles is vital too.

One of the most interesting challenges with architecture is when projects look to renovate or alter an existing building. It’s a great opportunity to reinvent it. Doing more of this, especially in busy urban areas, is a great way to improve access to housing. It means you are creating new homes where people want to live with good connections and amenities.

Rely on us if you’re designing innovative residential architecture in London

Architects have the ability to help create more accessible housing. The key is to explore new ways to build, innovate, reuse what is already there, tackle challenges, and cater for different needs.

We’d love to help if you have a project in mind. Coffey Architects is an award winning firm that always thinks outside the box. We can explore all kinds of ideas and lifestyle requirements. Whatever your brief and specific objectives, we can help you create the perfect home.

So, talk to us today about residential architecture in London or any other topic. We’ll be the ideal resource and add an amazing amount of value to your project.