The incorporation of human-centric design when it comes to home building has never been so important. Urban Habitats design and build for the people who live there – we chat to senior architect and design manager, Sarah Stephen, to find out more.

A good home design considers site orientation, light sources, materiality and functionality, but, importantly, it also considers the homeowners, their context and their connection to the home. At Urban Habitats, this is a key focus. What will the home be used for? Who will be living there? And how can the design positively impact the lives of the occupants?

The underpinning principle of human- centric design looks to design spaces that enhance the daily lives of the people who live there. According to Urban Habitats’ senior architect and design manager, Sarah Stephen, this process starts from the very first meeting. “Collaborating with the client from the very beginning is pivotal to a successful project,” says Sarah. “From here, we aim to design and deliver a solution that will be functional, timeless and enduring.”

“In the conceptual phase we assess the site and existing residence, exploring layouts that provide the best design functionally for the site. Whilst refining the function of the plans, we start exploring form and the materiality we feel best suited to the project, once again working with the client to achieve an aesthetic proportionally balanced with the design and, importantly, their taste.”

Evoking emotions

Obviously, the key purpose of a home is to provide shelter, but good architecture is much more than that. Good architecture evokes real emotion, and in some cases enhanced feelings of wellbeing. “Human-centric design, which puts people at the centre of the design process, further optimises these feelings”, says Sarah.

Understanding the way a client lives

Does the client have a large family? Kids? A dog? Do they enjoy entertaining and require light-filled indoor/outdoor spaces? Knowing the client and how they plan to live in their new home is paramount to the design success. “Once we know the parameters we can design accordingly, ensuring maximum functionality,” says Sarah, “and using a balanced palette that reflects the client allows them to inject their personality.”

A home for the future

While functionality and aesthetics are importance considerations, so too is sustainable design – for environmental and economic reasons. Urban Habitats will work with the site conditions to provide a range of sustainable design outcomes – from thermal heat gain to natural ventilation – that will not only lower heating and cooling costs but also give back to the community and environment.

A considered approach

At Urban Habitats the design process is collaborative and fluid, taking into consideration the overarching functionality of the home, how you imagine living in your home, as well as the desired aesthetics. “Architectural detailing, which includes interior design, cabinetry and materiality, ensures a cohesive final outcome that ultimately reflects our clients and our brand,” says Sarah.

END-TO-END

Urban Habitats offer an end-to-end solution for those wanting to build their dream home. The process starts with architectural design where you will work with their team of esteemed architects to design your new home.

The concept is further refined at the Planning stage, where Urban Habitats works with local authorities to achieve planning approval. They will also manage all design documentation, working closely with consultants, engineers and energy rating consultants.

Finally, all building works are managed and completed by Urban Habitats’ team of professional builders, with an on-site project manager keeping you regularly informed and updated. A fully-integrated landscape team will also help bring your garden dreams to life.

Urban Habitats
96 King William Road, Goodwood
08 8373 1731
urbanhabitats.com.au
@urbanhabitats_sa