When considering the style you want to build your new house, it is a common mistake to get the modern and contemporary styles confused. If you’re wanting a style that reflects current architecture, contemporary is the descriptor you want to use. If the style you’re after is reflected in houses from the mid to late 1900s, modern is most likely the descriptor you’re after. Here, we take a deeper look at the history and characteristics of modern architecture to help you decide which style is right for you.
Distinguishing between modern and contemporary
The main difference to keep in mind when referring to these two architectural styles is that contemporary refers to the ever-evolving styles of the 21st century and modern refers primarily to the period between 1950-1960 but can also include designs from the 1920s through to the 1970s.
Modern architecture was the response to the ornate, cluttered and fancy architecture of the late 1800s, with most old houses and buildings showcasing this style being more than 50 years old.
To find out more about contemporary architecture, read our article about it here.
History of modern architecture
Architects in the early 1900s wanted to go against the popular ornament and flair of the traditional designs at the time, including Victorian and Edwardian, to create something that was completely opposite.
Modern architecture was also a response to the quickly changing world which was moving towards technology driven and mass market industrialism. This style aimed to acknowledge these changes but also create a greater sense of connectedness with nature.
Characteristics of modern architecture
The focus of modern architectural design is simplicity and functionality, removing unnecessary details and frills. These homes have a strong horizontal composition, featuring large open floor plans, asymmetry and expansive floor-to-ceiling glass windows or walls.
A sense of connection with nature is also designed into these homes with the surrounding scenery used to enhance features of the home such as the lines of the roof or cantilevers to complement the landscape.
The simple style of these homes may appear cold and stark at first glance from the outside, they are warm and inviting upon entering due to the materials used during construction and in the interior design including dark woods and marble with warm colour accents.
Colours favoured in modern architecture are earthy tones such as rust, turquoise, brown and olive green.
Getting modern architecture right
With the simplistic style of modern architectures, it is important to select an architect and builder that are experienced in designing this style of home to ensure seamless flow between materials and that it is constructed to a high quality, without any corners cut.
An experienced architect will be able to work with you to ensure you’re getting the style you want and tailor it to suit the needs of you and your family, while also ensuring different construction materials connect seamlessly in the design. A craftsman builder will then be able to bring these plans to life, ensuring it is built to a high standard with no compromise on quality.
The team at Grollo Homes has been designing and constructing custom homes for over 50 years, working closely with clients from start to finish to bring their dream home to life no matter the style. As a family business, a member of the Grollo family oversees every aspect of both the design and construction phases of your new home.
Grollo has experience designing homes in a variety of architectural styles, including modern, and will work with and guide you to create a home that meets your requirements and is aesthetically stunning, while also being functional.
Want to build your dream custom home? Contact the Grollo Homes team to learn more.