One of the main criticisms of the construction industry is a small number of massive developers have so much power. They have the ability to dictate the design of homes. Often they create a handful of designs to match current market demands. Unfortunately, that means a large number of homes won’t be suitable for future liveability requirements. However, there are other ways to build. We want to have a look at one today; the Baugruppe System. Then, if you need help from architects in London, you can rely on us.

What is it?

The Baugruppe System puts residents at the core of the development. The name comes from the German for “building group”. What happens here is a group comes together to design the property. They have complete control over the shape, layout, and finish of their own residences. In addition, they can decide on communal spaces together.

Benefits

This is a really interesting way of building and offers a number of impressive advantages. Crucially, it empowers the group and means they can plan for future liveability. Some even go so far as planning how their homes will be able to adapt at a later date if necessary.

The building group also has the ability to maximise sustainability. They can choose materials carefully and incorporate all kinds of green tech and ecological features into properties. It can make the developments incredibly energy efficient and sustainable.

An advantage we can really appreciate, especially as top architects in London, is how the Baugruppe System can help to develop tricky plots. Big developers will typically avoid them. However, a building group could snap them up and make them really amazing homes. They can even redevelop existing buildings, boosting the environmental benefits even more.

Easily one of the most important elements here though is the community spirit. Collective engagement is a hallmark of every project. In addition, people can decide how to most effectively use communal spaces. Some Baugruppe developments include things like communal kitchens and gardens. They can’t help but bring people together, ensuring a sense of belonging.

There are plenty of fantastic examples of this kind of project. A notable one is in Neukolln, Germany. The building group includes 15 families. They acquired a building plot and subsequently created a modern housing development that is friendly, sustainable, and knitted into the surroundings.

A drawback

While there are lots of positives of Baugruppe, there is a factor that people criticise; exclusivity. Critics will say it does not effectively extend to low income people as they can lack the financial resources to get involved.

There are opportunities to create new strategies to improve inclusion here. In fact, collective projects can actually enjoy cost savings by avoiding the involvement of developers. The group has more buying power too when it comes to deciding on materials.

Talk to top architects in London

The Baugruppe System is becoming more and more popular around the world. As you’ve read, it definitely has plenty of benefits. So, don’t be surprised to start hearing about it more. In fact, it could work well in the UK, calling back to the days of building societies and people supporting others in their communities.

If you are thinking about any kind of project, you can ask Coffey Architects for help. We have plenty of experience with different developments, including housing. In fact, we can create designs with beautiful homes as well as incredible communal spaces. So, choose the top architects in London and speak to us today.