2024 is the year of increased concerns for sustainability and better housing, as well as the effective implementation of energy efficiency measures. On the other hand, 2024, being an election year, may mark a milestone in urban development policy, with challenges including the rise in prices for raw materials. In architecture and construction, the near future is divided between the imperative of sustainable projects and the challenge of new technologies.

Challenges & Opportunities in 2023

"2023 was a year with many challenges in the field of architecture and construction. Firstly, we talk about legislative changes such as the introduction of the methodology regarding NZEB (Near Zero Energy Building) or the change in the issuance of ISU approvals and authorizations, as well as the elimination of facilities in the construction sector. These were added to the workforce shortage and the reduction in the number of construction permits, constraints that led to new ideas and strategies such as digitization and the increased complexity of projects," says Elena Ștefănescu, architect and co-founder of Studio ae.

These are the main 10 trends in architecture and construction according to a study conducted by the architecture and design firm Studio ae.

1. Major Concern for Better Housing

With approximately 30,000 construction permits issued annually for houses or collective dwellings (apartments) and at least 6 million sq. meters authorized, housing represents the most extensive architecture program in terms of both quantity and area in Romania.

It is expected that NZEB practices (Nearly Zero Energy Building), mandatory standards for all new buildings and those undergoing major renovations, buildings with reduced energy consumption, will be implemented in 2024. In 2023, many innovative solutions and materials were presented, including in the residential segment, and it is expected that these will be used.

Given that we spend over 80% of our time indoors, the continuous concern for the quality of architecture and the design of the spaces we use is more than justified. Emphasis is placed on increasing quality and on timeless solutions, valid in the long run, on the importance of natural light, on open spaces that can be easily furnished, and that maintain their representative character over time.

2. Implementation of Energy Efficiency Principles

The last three years have been marked by legislative regulations on energy efficiency. Now, suppliers and manufacturers of construction materials are proposing new, certified materials. For example, corrugated sheet with an included layer of photovoltaic cells that efficiently combines both the technological and aesthetic aspects, new systems, and concepts of installations with very good efficiency. Projects optimize energy consumption through functions such as efficient insulation, triple-glazed windows, and integrated heating and cooling systems.

"2024 will be the year of implementing energy efficiency measures. Sustainability in architecture and construction has become imperative. Thermal insulation, integration of solar or photovoltaic panels, heat pumps, and other renewable energy sources such as wind turbines, where applicable, as well as the use of recovered materials are becoming increasingly common," says Elena Ștefănescu.

3. Decarbonization & Circular Economy

These are two new topics that will strongly enter the public's attention, where they will remain for a long time, including measures regarding ESG (Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance). Incorporated carbon is a very important factor when considering the global carbon footprint of the built environment. Thus, the Carbon Leadership Forum suggests that "approximately 30% of all global carbon emissions are attributed to the construction sector, with at least 8% resulting from the manufacturing of construction materials."

In the coming years, the carbon footprint of a building will be analyzed and calculated from the construction stage and throughout its use over time.

The carbon footprint will become an intrinsic part of the building process.

Therefore, it becomes increasingly important to include in projects strategies for reusing existing construction elements, replacing materials with high carbon content with low-carbon emission materials, or even carbon capture and saving existing materials to minimize the amount of waste, which would otherwise go to landfills.

4. Rising Prices

While construction material prices remained relatively stable at the execution level (a process that includes labor, transportation, machinery, etc.), in 2023, there was an increase of about 10%, mainly caused by the inflation in 2022.

It is also expected that in 2024, there will be a price increase due to legislative changes, the elimination of fiscal facilities, and the modification of taxes related to salaries in the construction sector at the end of 2023.

In 2023, there was a decrease in the number of issued permits, which means that there will be fewer construction sites in progress or completed in 2024.

Thus, against the backdrop of rising prices and reduced access to loans, purchasing a home becomes more challenging.

5. Delay in Decisions/Responses from Municipalities and Authorities

2024 is an election year, and a major concern will be the organization of elections followed by changes in administration. On the other hand, some of the already started public projects will be completed.

After delays in 2023 regarding the implementation of PNRR projects, 2024 could be a year with the "engines running" for investments in the construction sector. Many companies in the field focused on larger public projects, leading to a deficit in the private sector and small to medium projects.

In this context, for small and medium-sized firms, it can be an opportunity to develop new quality services, focusing on this segment with an emphasis on quality and energy efficiency. For example, for those building a single house, it is quite challenging to find a general contractor to coordinate the entire execution part.

If time is well used, this can be a plus for better detailing and planning of the project, budget, and construction site.

6. Turning Point/Reference Moment for City Development Policies

In 2024, it is the first local elections after the pandemic, marking a defining or redefining moment for cities. It is expected that city development agendas will consider the concept of the "15-minute city."

This, as well as the broader concept of an "eco-neighborhood," are development directions that need to be defined and implemented in accordance with local communities.

We are not just talking about ensuring essential facilities for families and communities within a relatively small perimeter but especially about mobility. Mobility remains a topic that evokes strong emotions due to the time lost in traffic in Romanian cities and the pollution generated by vehicles.

7. Technological Advances Change the Fields of Architecture and Construction

Architects and designers will increasingly use technology for the rapid development of ideas, for research and innovation. This fosters creativity, efficient project management, and a more transparent evaluation, generating greater overall construction efficiency.

AI has made significant progress in the last two years and will change many work processes in design and implementation in the coming period. For example, the time for a quick photorealistic image visualization is significantly shortened. In addition, more ideas can be tested in this way in a relatively short time.

• BIM – Building Information Modeling is becoming increasingly popular in Romania, especially since it represents a digital model of buildings that quickly, clearly, and completely transfers information to beneficiaries and builders.
• SMART building – IoT, sensors, processing data from sensors, BMS-type automation. Owners adopt automation to enhance comfort, security, and energy efficiency. Remote-controlled lighting, air conditioning, and security systems ensure that homes and offices are comfortable, functional, and efficient.

8. Increased Concern for Sustainability and Climate Change

With the publication of the energy efficiency methodology and its mandatory nature in all constructions, emphasis will also be placed on other sustainability aspects. Thus, sustainable, local materials, and paints with low CO2 content are increasingly used. Material recovery is also becoming more common.

"Rehabilitating existing buildings is an important method by which we can use what we already have. We can talk about functional conversions, reintegrating abandoned buildings, rehabilitating and maintaining existing buildings. In Bucharest, there are dozens of buildings abandoned for years, even in the central area, which represents a significant resource for the city, the community, and history," says Elena Ștefănescu.

9. Growing Interest in Wood

Wood is an organic, warm, friendly material used both for structural resistance and appearance, both indoors and outdoors. Structural wood, such as timber frame and CLT (Cross Laminate Timber), is already used in Romania and becomes an increasingly popular option due to the much shorter time for the construction site.

The use of FSC-certified wood (Forest Stewardship Council) ensures beneficiaries that exploitation is done ecologically and socially correctly.

10. Design and Architecture as Multipliers of Experiences and Functions

The influence of public space in the immediate vicinity of homes or offices on the overall quality of life is now more evident.

Design will continue to help reconnect people with nature, not only in projects that focus on environmental sustainability. "Green islands" in common areas, roof gardens, natural light, and air quality tend to become standards in residential and office areas.

Minimalism and project flexibility will dominate. Architects will focus on creating aesthetically pleasing and highly functional spaces.

The emphasis is on that clean and bright design that uses existing space in the most efficient way and allows adaptation to various needs, transitioning from office to residential or vice versa.

(Author: Arch. Elena Ștefănescu - General Manager Studio AE)