HOMES of the future

Shereen Lurie shares expert opinion on how our homes will look and function in the decades to come.

Home owners will see rapid developments within the sphere of home design as technology improves and the dialogue surrounding the sustainability of building materials continues to gain momentum. We have much to look forward to as visionary architects, builders and designers are replacing age-old concepts with cutting-edge and unique alternatives to house building. Discover how the self-sufficient, multifunctional and energy-producing home of the future is no longer the subject of science fiction.

SPACE UTILISATION

In the decades to come, population growth will continue to impact the way we live and the homes in which we live. More people are living in cities – and clambering for space - than ever before, says Jaco Botha, owner of Jacobotha Architects. “As we continue urbanising, and with worldwide population numbers expected to keep growing, the demand for denser, taller cities will likely lead to more compact living and shared services.”

He says: “As resources are limited, urban sprawl that attracts a much higher carbon footprint than densifying existing urban centers will likely come under increased scrutiny. Large houses on large plots will become less attainable, and it is likely that trends will expand around the concept of compact living, utility, and digital connectivity.”