Three lessons to learn about community architecture

Architecture has the power to shape communities and bring people together. When public properties are designed to have more than one use, they are better equipped to meet the needs of the community and draw more people to them. In the best situations they encourage communication and connections, letting people share their cultures and enhancing them.Community architecture is increasingly becoming a vehicle for bringing people together. There are three main ways that this can happen.1) Enhancing the experienceVisitors experience architecture through direct interaction, whether it is by spending time within the property or simply enjoying the aesthetics. The best buildings allow people to explore and meet their needs both physically and visually. Some buildings just pull you in and encourage you to have a look around. This gives you a chance to discover new things and experience them. When properties provide a great experience they will be successful and cherished by the community.2) Designs should meet socio-economic needsFor properties to make the biggest impact on a community they need to meet the needs of the people. Architecture has the power to improve communities but only if the designers consider what is needed and deliver it. With multiple use properties this can be tough but with care it can be achieved. Remembering to think about the demographics and characteristics of the users in designs is critical.3) Preserving rather than disrupting the communityArchitecture will reach beyond the immediate locale and have an impact on the wider area. This can potentially cause extensive disruption if it is not accounted for. Designers should consider a number of factors including the impact on local transport, the municipal infrastructure, the environment and even the visual impact of the building. By working hard to support communities and allow their cultures to grow properties can be far more successful.At Coffey Architects we are conscientious with all of our designs, whether they are in the domestic or commercial sphere. We always consider the needs of our clients alongside those of the wider community to ensure that our projects make the best impression. If you need an architect in London with a strong sense of the communities in the capital we are the one for you, as we specialise in both commercial and residential architecture in London and throughout the world.