The home is the one place where every person should be able to kick back, relax, and just be themselves. A place to be safe and feel safe, away from the stressors of everyday life. And a place where fond memories are made.
At least in an ideal world, this would be the case…
Homes with purpose is particularly relevant during Mandela Month, because the built environment can make a positive or negative difference in our communities.
Architects have a responsibility to the community to ensure that our influence is positive and NOT negative, and where better to start than with a home.
How does a home with purpose look like?
Dream with us…
It has personality
A home should be a reflection of its occupants. It should resemble who they are and what’s important to them. Therefore, an architect should really get to know the client to be able to bring this “personalised” purpose to the project. Personalisation goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that speaks to a client’s soul and brings joy to their daily life.
Personalised architecture has the power to instil an emotional (spirit of place/genius loci) connection to a space, boost overall satisfaction and encourage creativity and self-expression.
To get it right, architects can:
- Integrate spaces dedicated to the occupants’ hobbies, such as a home library, music studio, or craft room.
- Tailor the layout to fit the client’s specific requirements, such as open-plan living for social families or separated spaces for privacy.
- Create flexible spaces that can adapt to changing needs, like a home office that doubles as a guest room.
- Incorporate distinctive architectural features such as bespoke staircases, custom windows, or skylights to create focal points.
- Use materials, textures and colours that have personal significance or appeal.
- Incorporate design elements that celebrate the occupants’ cultural.
It’s a sanctuary
A purposeful home is a sanctuary where occupants can unwind and recharge body, mind and soul. A home that addresses this can aid with sleep quality, stress and anxiety relief, and improve focus and productivity when required.
Some practical ideas include:
- A cosy reading nook with comfortable seating and good lighting.
- A calming bedroom environment with blackout curtains and soothing colours.
- A meditation corner, prayer area or yoga space.
- Dimmer switches to control lighting ambiance.
- Private, serene spaces where occupants can relax and unwind, such as a spa-like bathroom or a secluded garden area.
It’s all about health
A home with purpose prioritises the health and well-being of its occupants. By focusing on elements like air quality and natural light, architects can create spaces that actively boost immune systems, improve mood and mental well-being and increase the energy levels and productivity of home dwellers.
Encourage health and wellness by:
- Maximising natural light with strategically placed windows and skylights.
- Installing air purification systems or use plants to improve indoor air quality.
- Choosing non-toxic, sustainable building materials.
- Incorporating water features for humidity control and calming ambiance.
- Reconnecting occupants with nature.
It’s nature-centric
Like the above point clearly shows, nature equals improved human health. Incorporating natural elements into a home design can also create a sense of harmony with the environment. But it doesn’t stop there.
It is also important to create homes that actively contribute to environmental preservation. In this way, homeowners become active participants in environmental stewardship – truly embodying the concept of “Homes with Purpose.”
Architects can achieve these goals by:
- Designing large windows or sliding glass doors to frame outdoor views.
- Creating an indoor garden or living wall.
- Using natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo in interiors.
- Using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems.
- Incorporating renewable energy sources, like solar panels, and designing for optimal natural ventilation and insulation.
It’s social
A purposeful home should facilitate meaningful interactions and create spaces where relationships can flourish. Doing so can strengthen family bonds and friendships, promote mental health and reduce feelings of isolation.
Bring families and friends together with:
- An open-concept kitchen and living area for seamless entertaining.
- An outside braai or fire pit to enjoy SA’s great weather together.
- A large dining area that can accommodate extended family and friends.
- Flexible spaces that can be easily reconfigured for different social events.
At Veld Architects, we believe that every home should tell a story and serve a purpose unique to its occupants. By carefully considering the above aspects in our designs, we strive to create living spaces that are not just houses, but true homes – sanctuaries that reflect your values, support your health, connect you with nature, and foster meaningful relationships.
Join the VELD Lifestyle.
Make your next project a VELD project.
Love,
xxx
Gill
What is architecture with purpose?
Architecture with purpose refers to design that goes beyond aesthetics to address specific social, environmental, or functional needs. It aims to create buildings and spaces that actively improve lives and communities.
How does sustainable architecture contribute to purposeful design?
Sustainable architecture reduces environmental impact through energy efficiency, eco-friendly materials, and minimised waste. This purposeful approach helps combat climate change and creates healthier living environments.
What role does inclusive design play in architecture with purpose?
Inclusive design makes sure that any building or room can be used by people of all abilities and ages. This purposeful approach promotes equality and social integration.
How can architecture address social issues in urban areas?
Purposeful urban architecture can tackle issues like affordable housing, community cohesion, and public health through thoughtful design of mixed-use developments, public spaces, and infrastructure.
What is the importance of cultural context in purposeful architecture?
Considering cultural context allows architects to create spaces that resonate with local communities, preserve heritage, and promote cultural identity. This purposeful approach enhances the social impact of architectural projects.
