Post-pandemic home design

1 Introduction
2 Open spaces
3 Need for calm
4 Inclusion of an office space
5 Anti-microbial surfaces
6 Home automation and smart appliances
7 Multi-purpose furniture
8 Aseptic materials
9 Related articles on Designing Buildings

[edit] Introduction

Before the COVID era, homes were one of the many places people occupied in the rhythms of the day. But now, we are spending more time every day inside our home. The experience of lockdown has impacted on the way people look at their homes. This perception shift may lead to permanent changes in the way we design homes beyond the pandemic era.

[edit] Open spaces

The most important change we can expect to see in future homes is the addition of open or outdoor spaces. People have recognised the need for an open space that allows them to take in the sunshine and fresh air. A small balcony, porch area or a courtyard where they can enjoy an outside experience will be one of the biggest changes in future home architecture.

[edit] Need for calm

The use of lighter colours may give some people the impression of spaciousness and create a calming environment. When staying indoors for a long time, owners of future homes may prefer the use of light colours and calming hues in their home décor. This will help to give the impression of an expansion of space and relaxation, even in a small room.

[edit] Inclusion of an office space

Working from home could well be the norm in the future. This has woken homeowners to the need for permanent office space in their homes. The future home architecture will need to incorporate well-designed office spaces instead of temporary corners in a room.

[edit] Anti-microbial surfaces

People are now more aware of anti-microbial and germ-resistant materials for flooring and surfaces. Preference is being given to materials that prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi and viruses. Home designs in the future will include the use of materials that are easy to clean and disinfect.

[edit] Home automation and smart appliances

Modern home design has begun to incorporate the latest technologies. Designs with motion-sensing doors, voice-controlled lights and self-cleaning toilets are not common but are seen around the world. Home designs post-COVID may use smart appliances along with technology that reduces the use of manual/button controlled devices for hygiene.

[edit] Multi-purpose furniture

When forced to live through the whole day confined in their homes, people begin to look for innovative ways to accomplish all their daily activities in the same space. Future homes will include multi-purpose furniture that takes up less space and may be used in different ways.

For instance, this may come in the form of a bed that may be folded into a sofa during the day to open up some extra space in the room. It could be a study room which can also be used as a guest bedroom. It could even be a mat that can be used for the children’s play area as well as for workout.

[edit] Aseptic materials

The future of home design may include the use of a variety of aseptic materials – especially in bed linens and other pieces of home décor. One of the most popular materials is copper and zinc infused linen for bed sheets and pillow covers. The use of copper and zinc ions in the fabric of bed linen may help to prevent the growth of pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi that can cause infections.