2015 US Commercial Building Architecture Trends

2015, a new year and a new chance in the recovering economy for architects to show us what they can do. Each year brings new technology and with it, new ways of building. Driving the technology of building design forward, we expect or are already seeing the following trends dominate building construction.

 

Structure Design Trends of 2015

Sustainability: This has become a primary design factor in recent years as the industry follows demands to maximize the use of space and minimize energy output to meet carbon targets and reduce utility costs. Moving towards a greener world and adhering to legislation regarding building design has already led to great innovation.

 

Organic design: Related to sustainability, and with the conscious green designer in mind, organic aesthetics are the area of growth for 2015. There is a great example in Seattle; the city recently approved a trisphere biodome for online retail giant Amazon. The building, when completed, will contain a park, and retail and office space.

 

 

 

Transparency: Following the change in working trends, the architecture of both exterior and interior design looks towards a more transparent outlook to reflect the new working philosophy. This is reflected in greater use of glass and mirrors inside and outside buildings, and the use of “air space” for better visuals and making buildings appear lighter, brighter and airier.

 

Interior Design Trends

Open workspaces: The workplace has changed fundamentally in the last few years. Thanks to cloud technology and the growth of the mobile workforce through telework, people can work almost anywhere. The old office space has died and become more egalitarian, open and flexible as a result.

 

 

 

Focus on visuals: We know that our environment can affect our mood; we also know that job satisfaction is far more important to the modern employee than it ever was. This is why building interiors are not just about function. Designers have come to realize that if our employees work in an attractive environment, then we can increase their satisfaction and productivity.

 

Flexible: Flexibility is the key to the millennials who are the business leaders of the future, but flexibility is also about keeping up with the evolving needs of the business. In traditional building design, there are limits to what we can do without disrupting the workforce. “Agile” and “Future Proof” are not just buzz phrases, but key elements of modern building design.