Residential Architecture 101: Everything You Need To Know
Residential architecture is a branch of architecture that deals with the design and construction of homes. It focuses on creating livable, safe, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing spaces. In Singapore, residential architecture design ranges from HDB flats to condominiums to landed property homes. Here is an overview of what residential architecture is.
Design Principles
At its core, is about creating dream homes that meet the needs of those who inhabit them. Designers must consider each client’s preferences and lifestyle when devising a plan for their home. To do this effectively, architects must understand the design principles such as scale, proportion, materiality, light and a good sense of aesthetic. Additionally, they must also be mindful of environmental requirements such as sustainability and energy efficiency when formulating a design brief.
Construction Considerations
Once a design has been finalised, many considerations must be considered before construction can begin. Architects must consider factors such as structural integrity, fire safety standards, accessibility requirements (if applicable), soundproofing techniques, climate control strategies (such as insulation or ventilation systems), electrical wiring plans (including outlets and lighting fixtures), plumbing plans (including fixtures), and material selection criteria. These elements are essential to ensuring that the finished product meets all necessary safety standards and will be comfortable for its inhabitants.
Sustainability Strategies
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in today’s world-– not only for environmental reasons but also for economic ones– so architects need to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in sustainable building practices when designing a home from scratch or renovating an existing structure. In recent years there has been an increased focus on sustainability within residential architecture. This involves using environmentally friendly materials (such as recycled materials or renewable resources) or implementing strategies such as passive cooling or solar power systems to reduce energy consumption over time.
One of the most important aspects of residential architecture is understanding the different types of homes that can be designed in Singapore. These are the four most common types of landed property homes found in Singapore:
1. Terrace House
Terrace houses may be known as row houses or townhouses. This house is part of a row of at least three housing units. There are two types of terrace houses: type 1 and type 2. The difference lies in the land size with type 1 having a minimum plot size of 150 sqm while type 2 having a minimum plot size of 80sqm.
2. Semi Detached House
As the name implies, semi detached houses are separated by a common wall. Semi detached houses are also known as duplexes in other countries. These houses can be attached on its side or on its back and require a minimum plot of 200 sqm.
3. Bungalow
Bungalows or detached houses are detached from other houses. They are one of the largest housing types in Singapore, with a minimum plot of 400 sqm. . As the walls are separated from other landed properties, homeowners of this house experience more privacy and exclusivity. They also have more freedom when it comes to building their home.
4. Good Class Bungalow (GCB)
GCBs are the most prestigious and exclusive of housing types in Singapore, distinguished by their size and location. Not only are they the largest housing type with a minimum of 1,400 sqm, they can only be built in 39 gazetted areas in the country. These areas are prime and popular locations that allow GCBs to preserve their prestige and exclusivity.
Conclusion
Residential architecture is an incredibly complex field requiring extensive knowledge and precise attention to detail to produce well-designed homes that meet all necessary safety standards while still being aesthetically pleasing. With proper planning and consideration of all factors involved– from design principles to construction considerations to sustainability strategies– residential architects help create beautiful spaces where families can call their home.
When looking for architects for residential homes, there are some essentials you should know about building landed property homes. AR43 Architect Pte Ltd consists of a team of good class bungalow designers in Singapore with extensive experience in residential architecture design. With many projects under our belt, our passionate designers bring you expertise and creativity to create the house of your dreams. Contact us today for more information.