Modernism is a form of architecture that is embraced around the world. From floor plans to lighting choices, read on to discover our essential tips on creating a modern house design.
What is modern architecture?
Rejecting ornament and embracing minimalism, modernism became the single most important new style or philosophy of architecture and design of the 20th century. The term “modern architecture” describes architecture designed and built within the social, artistic, and cultural attitude known as modernism. It focuses on experimentation, the rejection of predetermined rules and freedom of expression in art, literature, architecture, and music. The Modern Movement in architecture was born in the 20th century, predominantly taking off after World War I. Advancements in engineering, building materials, social equality, health, and industry skyrocketed, while past historical styles were rejected. This created a setting that allowed architecture to enter a new era of design.
What are the characteristics of modern architecture?
Modern architecture has several characteristics that make it easily identifiable. Here are a few of the most common ones:
New building materials
Modern building materials such as steel, iron, concrete block, and glass make contemporary designs possible. While before the turn of the 20th century building materials were restricted to simple items like brick, stone, and wood, scientific innovations led to the creation of brand-new materials that meant architects could experiment in a different way.
Form follows function
Functionality is a central component of modern architecture. First used by Louis Sullivan in one of his articles known as “The Tall Office Building Artistically Considered”, this term suggests that the functionality of the building should be a deriving factor throughout the design and creation process.
Comfort and health
The idea that a home or even a commercial building should be designed to be comfortable was largely introduced by Modernism. We have Modernism to thank for elements like a connection to the outdoors, spacious rooms, and lots of light. As 20th-century scientists learned more about disease, hygiene, nutrition, and other fundamentals of health, architects adopted design elements that complemented these findings. Contrast that with pre-Modern buildings, which tended to have small windows, lots of rooms and walls, and an emphasis on keeping weather and nature out.
Clean lines
Modern design is characterised by clean lines with minimal orientation and sleek, consistent surfaces.
Use of glass
Floor-to-ceiling windows are designed to flood modernist buildings with natural light. So-called "curtain walls" are a common feature of modernist buildings as well. These non-structural, exterior walls allow the entire facade of a building to be made of glass.
Flat roofs
Low, horizontal roofs and broad overhangs are a prominent feature of many mid-century modern homes.
Open floor plans
Modernist buildings rarely include structures that aren't deemed essential to the functionality of the building. Since modern architecture focuses on form over function, architects sought to include large, spacious floor plans with dining and living spaces that flowed into one another. The results are large, open living spaces.
Asymmetrical designs
Modern architects played around with large, smooth shapes and asymmetrical compositions that were cleanly planed and lacked any additional decoration.
Famous examples of modern architecture
Modern architecture can be found all over the world. Here’s just a few of the most notable examples:
Fallingwater
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1939, this impressive home in Pennsylvania is made from concrete slabs hovering above a natural waterfall.
Crystal Cathedral
Built by architect Philip Johnson in Garden Grove, California, this skyscraper was considered the largest glass building in the world when construction was completed in 1981.
Seagram Building
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe completed the Seagram Building, a 38-story skyscraper, in 1958. It remains a famous fixture of the New York City skyline.
Gateway Arch
Finnish architect Eero Saarinen immigrated to the United States in 1923 and built one of the most iconic modernist structures on American soil—the Gateway Arch in Saint Louis, Missouri. The 630-foot stainless steel monument was completed in 1965 and remains the world’s tallest arch to this day.
Villa Savoye
Designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, this villa built on the outskirts of Paris, France, features reinforced concrete and an entirely white exterior. Built between 1928 and 1931, it remains a modernist icon.
Sydney Opera House
Built by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, the Sydney Opera House is one of the most distinctive buildings of the modernist movement. Completed in 1973, the opera house features a modern expressionist design and sail-shaped roof.
How to create a modern house design
There’s several changes you can make to your home, both big and small, to create the modern house design of your dreams:
Redesign house layout
A traditional home design can typically be characterised by complicated floor plans with rooms laid out in a somewhat haphazard, disorganised way. Since enough thought is not given to the planning process of the floor, it results in merging of excess floor spaces - sometimes even ending up in a situation where a garage lurks behind the master bedroom. When it comes to modern homes, symmetry is prioritised. Careful thought is given to make sure there is a logical and seamless integration of rooms.
Embrace open floor space
Modern houses base their design on function. To achieve this, follow these simple guidelines:
- Instead of having separate, distinct rooms that are boxed off from each other, consider combining them for a more open, usable space. Open floor plans create a spacious feel and take better advantage of natural lighting while offering flexibility in the way the space is used. After all, modern houses have open spaces, so avoid crowded layouts.
- Use only furniture that you need and make sure it is right for your space. Do not use large furniture if your area is small. Avoid using too small furniture if your place is wide. Remember, everything should match well with the space available.
Redesign your windows
Windows are a significant factor when it comes to contemporary home design. The size, placement, and function of each window determines the overall success of your design scheme. Traditional windows are usually smaller with standard casem*nt and double-hung sash design. Many modern style homes feature floor to ceiling glass windows that bring the outdoors in and allow the sunshine to flow in the interiors.
Don’t overcomplicate roof design
Your roof is a critical focal point of your home’s exterior. It’s essential that you get the design right. Many conventional house forms have pitched or gable roofs that significantly affect the starting point of the floor plan and make the house as a whole look top-heavy, or roof dominated. Modern architecture has been characterised by flat roofs, which are simple in form and function, and serve as a good example of the modernist principle of clean lines
Opt for neutral colours
Modern designs favour neutral colours for their elegance and versatility. Neutrals, black, and white are the main colours in contemporary style interiors - opt for these whenever possible..
Think about your lighting choices
Modern design uses good lighting. Most of their structures have a light and almost translucent look. The use of pin lights, up lights, wall lamps, spotlights, lights with dimmers and others are common in modern design.
Avoid going overboard with textures and patterns
If you want to use textures and patterns, choose those with clean lines. Ideal ones are solids, stripes, geometric patterns and abstracts. You can also use animal prints subtly on rugs and other decorative accessories. Do not use ruffles and laces - these will not compliment a modern design.
Play it safe with the furniture
Simple furniture is used in modern design. The usual furniture used is vinyl cushioned, plastic, and brushed metal. You may also encounter lacquered woods that are designed with sleek lines. Consider colours in choosing your furniture - ensure it fits your house theme. Do not use antique furniture for modern design, as this will look mismatched.
Searching for design consultants at ‘architecture firms near me’?
Spatial Design Architects can help you create your dream home. As a multi-award-winning RIBA chartered practice, we take immense pride in our work. Specialising in bespoke, contemporary designs for residential property, apartments, mixed-use projects and commercial developments, we strive to produce exceptional modern architecture. With decades of experience and an extensive understanding of the architectural practice, our work prides itself on attention to detail, exceptional craftsmanship and flawless delivery - making us the perfect fit for your next project. Contact us today to find out more about what we can do for you.
