We experience architecture every day, sometimes it even subliminally evokes a memorable feeling. This post explores the importance of designing specifically for the building's inhabitants.
Architecture is one of the three basic needs: food, water, and shelter. Look around - you are constantly surrounded by the built environment. Perhaps you are in your office amidst the bustling city. Or maybe you are in the comfort of your own home. Even if you are outside in a park, you can probably see a building in the distance. That building serves a specific purpose, as most do. Our job, as architects, is to uncover that purpose and to design the building according to the people who intend to use it.
Think for a moment about the activities you do that inform how you use your space. For example, you might be fond of hosting large family gatherings, so you need room for a big dining table. Or maybe you like to entertain smaller groups of friends in an informal setting, so an open floor plan between your kitchen and living room would better suit you.
Perhaps you and your partner both get ready for work at the same time, so making clear circulation paths between closet, shower, and bathroom sinks would make your mornings more efficient. Maybe you work from home and are in need of a space that facilitates focus.
Everyone uses space differently. A family of five has different needs than empty nesters building a retirement home.
How you use your space is unique to you, so your home should be too.
Your past experiences can inform how you experience a space, sometimes this happens subliminally without you even realizing it.
One of our clients recalls their college dorm room being on the basement level of a building. For this reason, they did not like the feeling of a sunken bedroom in their remodel project.
Another client expressed concern with floor to ceiling windows because they have young children running around. This safety measure informed us to set the window sill at least two feet above the floor.
Some clients are preparing to age-in-place, for which we can make suggestions for single-story home solutions or residential elevators. Whereas, others are weighing resale values, like including a large pantry space and walk-in-closets.
At Refine Design, one of our favorite parts of the design process is getting to know our client's story. We believe design is a collaborative effort, which is why we prioritize listening to our clients' needs and goals. The ideas you bring to the table are the most important.
A successful project is created from: context, client input, and construction knowledge.
With these three concepts, we provide three-dimensional solutions in order to bring your ideas to life.
So, what's your story? Let's get started!
