EDITORIAL Trends
McKirby cites the following as key trends to follow in 2025 and beyond:
Breathing new life into old buildings
1 Adaptive reuse repurposes old, often historic buildings for new functions, such as turning warehouses into offices or factories into housing. This sustainable approach preserves architectural heritage, reduces waste, and optimises existing infrastructure. It also saves developers costs and avoids delays tied to new construction permits.
By maintaining urban character and fostering continuity, adaptive reuse revitalises neighbourhoods, boosts local economies, and enhances community connection. As architects innovate in 2025, this trend will play a pivotal role in sustainable urban development worldwide.
2
Less is more
Minimalism in architecture is a design philosophy that promotes simplicity, functionality, and clarity, focusing on clean lines, open spaces, natural light, and high-quality materials like wood, stone, and glass. It aligns with sustainable design by efficiently using resources and eliminating unnecessary elements without sacrificing comfort.
Live, work and play
4 Mixed-use developments, combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, are becoming a cornerstone of urban architecture in 2025. These projects address the need for sustainable, efficient, and vibrant urban living by reducing commuting, promoting walkability, and encouraging community interaction.
In South Africa, mixed-use spaces are already gaining traction, driven by urbanisation, rising property costs, and the demand for innovative housing solutions. Cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town are embracing these developments to optimise land use and revitalise urban centres. For developers and architects, mixed-use spaces offer a forward-thinking approach to balancing growth, sustainability, and social well-being.
5
Building for people
Community-focused design is a response to the growing recognition of mental and emotional wellbeing in urban environments, aiming to create“ liveable cities” that prioritise residents’ well-being and a sense of belonging. It fosters human connection, accessibility, and inclusivity by creating welcoming spaces for everyone.
In residential spaces, minimalist design prioritises quality furniture, multipurpose areas, and connections to nature, while in commercial settings, it fosters a clutter-free environment that enhances productivity and mindfulness.
3
Cost-effective efficiency
Modular construction is revolutionising the architectural landscape, offering an efficient and sustainable approach to building design. This method involves constructing sections, or“ modules”, of a building in a controlled factory setting before transporting and assembling them on-site. The result is a streamlined construction process that significantly reduces building time, material waste, and labour costs.
One of the key benefits of modular construction is its flexibility as modules can be customised to suit a wide range of architectural styles, from residential homes and office spaces to schools and healthcare facilities. Advances in technology have also enabled the use of high-quality materials, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal comparable to traditional construction.
This trend often includes shared spaces, such as courtyards and common rooms, to encourage interaction and community engagement. It also ensures accessibility for people of all ages and abilities and incorporates pedestrian-friendly layouts and safety features in public spaces.
“ These architectural trends represent a forward-thinking approach to addressing the social, environmental, and economic challenges of our time and, going forward, they are likely to shape cities in profound ways, creating urban environments that are sustainable, inclusive, and resilient,” concludes McKirby.
“ Architects, developers and planners are reimagining what it means to build for the future, moving towards an architecture that not only meets functional needs but also addresses global challenges while enhancing everyday life.” ■
In South Africa, modular construction is gaining traction due to its cost-effectiveness and potential to address housing shortages quickly. Additionally, its eco-friendly nature aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable building practices, making it a forward-thinking choice for modern architecture.
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