While modern architecture may not be for everyone, it is safe to say that there are elements of modern design that can appeal to us all. Even those whose taste may fall on the opposite side of the spectrum (rustic farmhouse, traditional). Modern architecture’s rising popularity is the perfect way for both architects and homeowners to express their love for simplicity and clean design! Most modern style homes incorporate concrete, wood, steel and glass to give the structure and industrial feel.
In this article, we will look further into why homeowners keep falling in love with this ever-growing trend.
Modern Design is Unique
Despite its simplistic styling that avoids extra fluff, modern architecture remains unique. In fact, modern architects have created some of the most unique designs to date. Just look to the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright and numerous other iconic architects.Yes, some of these modern designs may have flat roofs and boxy style, but they certainly manage to be anything but boring. Look around your city streets and neighborhoods—which architectural designs stand out to you the most? The unique one-of-a-kind modern ones, or the traditional designs that tend to mimic one another row upon row? Modern architecture is anything but cookie-cutter. Look to the originality of the bold, angular roof lines that are so prominent in modern design—these are very unique. Everything from the vaulted ceilings, to the exposed structural elements, to the unusual linear elements— all equate to a unique, artistic design that you cannot help but be amazed by.
Restrained Palette In Modern Architecture
Less is definitely more when it comes to decorating a modern home. After all, why would you want to hide all the amazing architectural details of the design by adorning it with a lot of extra ornamentation? These designs were meant to speak for themselves, making their own statement through their structure and functionality. In the image below you can see that the interior decor of this home is kept simple, clean and natural. The furnishings feature elements of steel and wood and are incorporated to help highlight the real hero—the architecture. Everything is kept simple so that the blueprint of the home and the materials used in its design are allowed to take center stage. This is not to say that a modern home cannot have pops of color or added character through decor. It is just that it needs to be done in a manner that adds to the architecture rather than takes away from it.
Warmth in Modern Architecture
A misconception that critics often have of modern architecture is that it’s cool and cold. However, the opposite could be argued. A large number of modern designs feature elements that are naturally warm and inviting, such as wood and stone. Floor-to-ceiling stone fireplaces, large windows that let in natural light and vaulted post and beam ceilings— what could add more character and warmth than these wonderfully modern features? While the pattern may be linear, clean and uncluttered—there is definitely warmth to be found in modern architecture. Also, most modern plans contain fewer walls, thereby creating a more welcoming, open living space that most people crave.
Traditional and Modern Architecture Mix Well Together
They can co-exist. Mixing traditional and modern architectural elements works well when done properly and with a slight hand of restraint. There are numerous examples of successful meshing of these two, seemingly opposing, styles together into one cohesive design. Look to the image below— it’s an exemplary illustration of a modern and traditional union. The mixture of cedar shingles with modern structural elements creates a very unique and appealing home. Of course, this is not a design marriage for the faint of heart. One would have to be daring in order to have the nerve to try it. Obviously, it is best to attempt this only under the supervised watch of a skilled design architect. The good news is that you can have the best of both worlds —modern and traditional.
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