When designing the look and layout of a building, you must take into account how each area relates to another. Having a consistent design scheme is important, both from within the property and from outside.
David James Architects & Partners have been creating innovative, versatile design solutions for nearly a decade. In this post, we explain the importance of a holistic approach to building design, and what variables to consider for a seamless transition from outside to in.
Why Should the Exterior of a Building Match Its Interior?
A consistent design is important for the unified aesthetic of the property. Too many clashing colours, designs, and fixtures will be visually jarring, even if said features would be attractive on their own. It will make the building confusing and unpleasant to navigate, and ruin the overall energy of the space. For example, the tranquillity of a bucolic front garden will be spoiled if someone steps inside the front door, only to find themselves in a brightly-lit, ultra-modern vestibule.
Another factor to consider is market viability. When it comes time to sell your building, interested parties will expect the inside to match the outside. A mismatched design scheme will repel buyers and lower the value of your property.
How Do You Achieve a Consistent Design?
Although there are many more aspects to consider when designing a building, here are some starter tips for ensuring a good design consistency throughout your property.
1. Stick to a Limited Colour Scheme
Not every section of your building needs to have the exact same colours, but they should remain within the same palette. An interior painted in soft pastels would look strange when paired with an industrial-inspired exterior in dark greys and browns.
Consider whether you want to use a cool, warm, or neutral palette, and align each room’s colours accordingly.
2. Match Your Design to The Surrounding Landscape
It’s not just the exterior of your building you need to consider: you need to take the surrounding landscape into account, as well. A sleek, modern interior would feel very out of place if the building is surrounded by farms and rolling hills.
Think about where your property is located. Is it close to the sea? A breezy, sea-inspired interior may be best. Is it in the heart of a major city? Minimalist furnishings and floor-to-ceiling glass panels would work well.
Given the rural location of our design for five holiday lets in Upwey, Weymouth, we opted for a barn-style design with wood panelling and exposed brick, creating a rustic yet contemporary space in keeping with the surrounding buildings.
3. Consider the Textures and Materials You Incorporate
Housing styles are characterised by the materials they comprise of, so make sure the components you choose are consistent throughout the entirety of the property. A staircase made of iron and stone would suit a manor with a Victorian-style exterior, whereas one made of glass and steel would not.
We designed two contemporary houses with an airy, modern design in the highly-sought after seaside town of Sandbanks, Poole. To create a flow between the exterior and interior, we used copper effect cladding, wood, white painted render, and floor-to-ceiling glass panels throughout.
Award-Winning Building Designs from David James
From drafting designs to acquiring planning permission, David James Architects & Partners provide a fully comprehensive architectural service. We are a multi award-winning firm with an expansive client base of national and local developers, local housing authorities, and private clients. Whether you’re looking to renovate an existing property or have an entirely new build designed, we will perform our services to the highest possible standard.
To enquire about our services, contact us through our online form or call us on 01202 755633.
