Residential, pubic and commercial architecture can be much more than simply designing a building to meet the needs of users. Buildings should convey the beliefs, values and philosophies of the people that live, own and work in them, whether it is green technologies, recycled materials or systems designed to improve wellbeing. Modern architecture is far more focused on sustainability as people seek to protect the environment and do as much as they can with as little materials, energy and impact.

The structures we build are inherently a representation of how we live, but many of the most successful properties have gained their standing because they planned ahead for the future. Technology naturally advances, but the modern world is seeing new innovations at a faster rate than ever before. Commercial architecture represents this in the push to use new materials and come up with cutting edge designs. With every property you should plan for how it will stand the test of time.

Alongside preparing for the future, many successful properties also tip their hat to the past. Considering how quickly the design field evolves, there is an almost constant search for new ideas, both traditional and futuristic. Architects can take inspiration from many different places and use it to produce stunning properties that represent people, the environment around them, their hopes for the future and the proud history.

Commercial architecture has a big influence on society and can have an impact across both the public and domestic sectors in the process. There is a tendency for the residential sector to get left behind with architectural revolutions because it is difficult to come up with a blueprint that can be implemented on a large scale. Commercial buildings are usually singular but their scale leaves more room for innovations. Architects involved in their construction should take into account the message they want to give to the people who will take inspiration from their creations.

All around the world there are stunning examples of commercial architecture, some that proved to be successful and others that failed to capture the hearts and minds of people. Buildings need to have a social conscience and reflect the society they are found in; that is the key to success.