In order to be successful, architects are required to change with the times, just like any other field. In many cases, changes make the work easier, like in the case of technological advances that allow architects to work quicker, more safely, and more accurately. Other times, changes are dictated by consumer taste, the economy, or a need to make communities better. The architectural firm of Dean Robert Camlin and Associates, Inc., located in Maryland, realizes trends affect their business and they make every attempt to stay current with the changing times. It requires flexibility and knowledge on the part of the architect, and if you are in the market for a qualified architect, it is important to make sure yours is familiar with architectural trends.
Trends are often based on the geographical location of the project. This is especially true now when it comes to economic issues. In places in the United States where the housing boom exploded and then fell apart, architects are seeing an increase in renovations, as opposed to new buildings. People are investing in their current homes and making them more efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and spacious, instead of moving to a whole new location. Even in parts of the country that did not experience the housing boom as intensely, new building construction is still moving slowly. Consumers and financing companies are being cautious, which has lead to architectural firms focusing more on upgrades instead of new designs. Owner of Dean Robert Camlin and Associates, Inc. Dean Camlin says of his home state of Maryland, “There are less new houses being built, and more owners are opting for additions and alterations.” These changes enable homeowners to gain some of the value back in their homes that was lost when the market crashed.
Lasing Results
Some in the field believe the current financial struggles in the design and building market will result in permanent changes in the field. According to “2010: A Year of Convalescence,” a report in the January/February 2010 issue of DesignIntelligence(a journal for design leaders) written by James P. Cramer and Jane Gaboury, more than 20 architectural trends have increased in popularity and may stick around following these trying economic times. According to the article, banking difficulties have resulted in architectural firms seeking new ways to “leverage opportunities and keep staff billable, professional firms need to dig proactively into clients’ strategies both to understand clients’ needs and to root out new work.”
Another trend is the merging of architectural and building firms. These collaborations are beneficial to the consumer because their design and building teams are coordinated and working for the same company. However, it will result in a lack of a competitive bidding phase for projects, reducing consumer options. Finally, the article notes the improvements in technology that will affect the field of architecture for years to come. The developments have enabled architects to use 4-dimensional technology to create realistic renderings, opening a slew of new design options and the ability to be more accurate and efficient.
Going Green
A major trend that has been in the works for quite some time that has had lasting effects is the desire for consumers to have energy-efficient homes built with sustainable materials. More and more people require their architects to create homes that are natural, healthy, and do as little harm to the environment as possible. Camlin explains green design concepts must be applied throughout the entire process. “(Sustainable design and building) starts at the beginning of a project, considering the orientation of the building on the property to take best advantage of the sun for passive solar heating, placement of overhangs and plantings to create shade, and (the) design of passive ventilation. I will recommend techniques to reduce water consumption, which durable and low-maintenance building materials to use, and how much insulation to build into the envelope.”
Green design has also become more aesthetically pleasing in recent years. At the onset of environmentally responsible design trends, the focus was on practicality and function. Now architects are learning how to incorporate sustainability into design in a way that is aesthetically pleasing. Heating and cooling methods include stylish skylights and cutting-edge solar panels, natural materials for flooring include cork and bamboo, and recycled building materials that look sleek and stylish. This is all part of the artful eye and skill it takes to be an architect and shows an ability to meet the needs of communities without sacrificing aesthetic value.
If you are searching for an architect for your building project, be sure ask him about his design trend philosophy. Architects who are able to communicate their knowledge of current trends, as well as how they incorporate the trends into their design, will do a much better job of meeting your needs than those who dismiss trends. If you are interested in working with an architectural firm who can meet your needs, contact Dean Robert Camlin and Associates, Inc.
