Designing For Change

If architects were to build more flexible homes, homes with the ability to adapt and change over time, what difference would it make to the occupants? Would they lead happier, better lives? Would the houses survive longer by virtue of their versatility? This paper explores the role of flexibility in housing, examining how, why and if we should intentionally design homes to change along with the needs of the inhabitants. The paper argues that sensible, forward-thinking design could improve the state of housing in the UK. It is clear that we ought to design buildings to last as long as possible, but amid constantly-changing social, environmental and technological conditions it is difficult for architecture to avoid obsolescence. Theoretically we can improve the living experience by anticipating and permitting change. Designing For Change intends to discover just how important achieving flexibility really is.