Architonic articles of the year 2022

This list of the most-read articles from 2022 points to the emerging professional interests and personal passions of architects, designers and all fans of creative environments.

Whether in a home, workplace, school or hospitality setting, flexibility was, perhaps, the most important word of the year when it came to interiors. This article on room division looked at five separate examples of projects using different products and materials to organise their spaces more effectively.

‘The ancient political maxim ‘Divide and Conquer’ is about the ruling powers keeping small groups separate to avoid the congregation of strength. But the creation of smaller, more focused groups and spaces also has its benefits. Clearly defined areas in all types of spaces help employees, customers and homeowners understand and focus on their task, free from distraction or confusion.’

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Kitchens and kitchen products are often amongst the most popular sections of the Architonic database, so it’s little surprise that this article on some of the most recent kitchen appliance innovations making contemporary kitchens sleeker, more intuitive and more enjoyable to spend time in, rose to near the top of the list.

‘In the kitchen, good-quality cooking is hard to achieve while retaining the desired aesthetic of the super-minimal, with modern appliances clogging up counter space like it's rush hour on the worktop. Technology, however, will find a way, with appliance brands like V-Zug’s latest innovations simplifying even the most complex culinary activities, while retaining an unobscured kitchen landscape.

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In an extremely rare event for any journalist protective of their sanity, I’m going to refer back to a previous prediction. There’s no need for concern, however, as the predicted trends of bold and natural patterns, flexible interiors, biophilic and sustainable architecture and design, hybrid living and a deeper understanding of the metaverse predicted in January’s article, all rang true over the last 12 months, with the topics becoming some of the year’s most talked-about issues.

‘As we shift into 2022, the year will become about learning to live with recent changes in the long term – ensuring we appreciate our environment for what it is, while ensuring we have an environment to appreciate in the years to come.’

> Read the full article on architecture and design trends for 2022 here, and look out for our upcoming ‘Trends of 2023’ feature in January.

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With natural materials and light-filled environments high on professionals’ ‘Want lists’, this article explaining the key features of Scandinavian design, pointing to recent examples from the region, proved valuable.

‘There’s more to Scandinavian design than just white walls and IKEA. Here’s how selected Scandinavian interiors and products help the region to relax during those long, dark winters, and keep connected to the hidden world outside.’

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A few months after the making of New Year’s resolutions, many of which likely involved building a healthier relationship with nature, this February 2022 article on the benefits of balconies proved popular, with examples taken from hotels, private residences, apartment blocks and even interior, mezzanine balconies.

‘Anyone who’s ever visited the theatre will appreciate the advantage a few extra inches give to your viewing position. So more often than not, wherever a house is built overlooking an area of outstanding beauty, residents are mindful of letting it go to waste, so a balcony is one of the first items on their must-have list.’

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