Everything You Need to Know About Modern Architectural Style

by Kevin Smith Author

Are you trying to build a custom home for you and your family? If you have the budget, why don't you try constructing a modern house. Here's everything you need to know about this architectural style.

Brief History

Modern architectural style emerged in the early 1920s, but it was only popularized in the late 1940s. It's a byproduct of advancements in the construction industry that led to the easier production of materials, like steel, glass, and reinforced concrete. Also, it's heavily inspired by "modernism," an art movement that tried to reject classical trends and previous concepts of beauty, like elaborate patterns and intricate decorations.

As a result, "modern" edifices embraced a new kind of beauty. These constructions draw attention because of their unique or simple look. One famous example is the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in Manhattan, NY. Completed in 1959, it's prominent for its spiraling and cone-shaped structure, which is very different from the usual rectangular buildings of that era.

There are also rectangular modern buildings, such as the Philip Johnson Glass House in New Canaan, CT. Erected in 1949, the 1-story structure is just 10.5 feet high. What makes it unique, though, is that it's almost entirely made of glass and steel. Its roof is also flat, which is a huge contrast to the typical sloped-shape ones.

Defining Characteristics

It's not easy to describe this architectural style. Some experts believe that homes that don't have traditional or classical designs can be considered modern.

But, there are those who are strict with the definition. According to them, a modern house should have these defining features:

Function Over Form
Modern homes highlight the functionality of the building more than its overall appearance. It means that, as long as its spaces - both exterior and interior - are properly managed, it doesn't matter if a house is conventionally attractive or not.

It's the reason you don't see a lot of decorations inside and outside the house. It's fine to cast these designs off altogether since their only purpose is to enhance visual aesthetic.

Ceiling-to-Floor Windows
Very large windows that extend from the floor up to the ceiling are another defining characteristic of modern architecture. They're also not covered by curtains to let sunlight illuminate the interior of the house. This way, less energy is used for light sources, like chandeliers and sconces, at least during the day.

Flat Roofs
The roofs are often flat and made of concrete slabs to conserve space on the top of the house. The area is commonly converted into a terrace or balcony where the homeowner can unwind.

Using concrete is more expensive compared to the usual metal sheets or asphalt shingles. It's why many homeowners try to speak with multiple companies to haggle residential roofing cost in Melbourne, FL. This way, they can get the lowest rate for the installation.