Architecture should maximise social value

The most important thing to keep in mind about architecture is that buildings will only be successful if they benefit people. Even if it is a structure with a stunning design, if it does not have any social value it will fail. With that in mind, every architect should be looking to maximise this value. As one of the very best architect London has, we know how to do this on different projects.

People are important

Architects LondonThe thing to keep in mind is that it is people that bring spaces to life. Without them, all you have is an empty room. The inhabitants and users will dictate everything from the contents to the lighting. You should be designing everything with them in mind.

A great thing to do is create architecture that people want to engage with. That means that, rather than a structure that people avoid, you get a building that people want to approach and interact with. This can extend out into communities, providing a great deal of social value.

There are plenty of easy ways to make sure that a building will engage with people. For example, it could be through something as simple as colours that draw the eyes. It is also crucial to have the right facilities. The design should make people want to engage with the building rather than quickly move through it.

Full life

Another important thing to remember is that the social value should last for the full life of the building. While the aim should always be to build sustainably and create properties that last, there will be times when places evolve and outgrow the architecture. It is a really good idea to plan ahead for this, even if it will be very far in the future.

There are several ways a piece of architecture could still be useful at the end of its life. For example, it could provide recyclable materials that could be useful in the wider community. There could even be parts of the structure that could become new buildings elsewhere in the area.

Talk to architects in London about social value

No matter where a building is, it should provide as much value as it can to the people around it. This is something we take to heart at Coffey Architects. It is why we try to design buildings that fit into their surroundings and benefit all stakeholders.

So, if you want to learn more or have a design in mind, contact us. We can help, offering the kind of service you would expect from some of the most creative architects London has. You can see some of our work for yourself on our website.