Resurgence of Modern Architecture
We are seeing Modern or Contemporary design making a resurgence.
Everywhere you turn, another designer is releasing a project featuring a minimalist design style. This focus on space, simplicity and beautiful typography is refreshing. And it’s a great option for many design projects.
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 suspended 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. Most modern plans contain fewer walls, thereby creating a more welcoming, open living space that most people crave.
Modern architecture is defined by clean lines and minimalist interiors that allow the structure to speak for itself and take center-stage. The image below is a perfect example of clean and simple modern architecture.
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. Less is more when it comes to decorating a modern home. After all, why would you want to hide all the 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. Everything is kept simple so that the blueprint of the home and the materials used in its design are allowed to take center-stage.
Contemporary design celebrates what isn't there as much as what is. Empty space takes on an almost sculptural quality, carved out by the strong architecture. Because of their openness, contemporary interiors are especially well suited to large-scale furnishings, art and accents.
But also consider... Too much space with too little to anchor it makes a room feel lost and forlorn. Break furnishings into groupings to help divide up a large room. Chandeliers or pendant lighting can visually pull down a high, cavernous ceiling.
Contemporary rooms are nothing if not polished, and that means high-gloss surfaces fit right in. Chrome, steel, lacquer, glass, plastic, tile and more all work in tandem to help bounce light around a space. Mix materials for contrast and depth. But also consider… Too much reflectivity will make your eyeballs quiver. Break up the gleam with matte elements temper shine with texture, such as ribbed glass or brushed nickel.
Can you picture tasseled draperies or a balloon valance in this space? Neither can we. Windows in a contemporary milieu are usually abundant, and they’re often left undressed to highlight their crisp lines and let natural light flood in. If privacy’s an issue, or if you just don’t like feeling that you’re on display, integrate sleek window treatments that won’t stop the eye: sheers or solid panels that blend into the wall color; narrow blinds; mesh shades. As long as they’re done in a neutral solid or barely-there print, and kept very tailored, Roman shades are another possibility.
Modern architecture and design has something for everyone. Even if your taste may veer towards the opposite side of the design spectrum (i.e. rustic country)— there are still elements of modern design that will appeal to you.
Modern architecture does not have to be cool and hard. With warm wood materials, this modern home is anything but cold and unwelcoming.
Did you know we've branched out on social media? Click to check us out on:
Pinterest | Facebook | Instagram | Linkedin
