The Ultimate Handbook for Contemporary Architecture

The modern architecture movement emerged between the 1930s and 1970s, where architects aimed to transform building practices by prioritizing human experience over traditional notions of beauty. This shift began as handcrafted techniques gave way to industrial production methods. Unlike revivalist styles, which often evoke nostalgia, modern architecture is characterized by its innovative, experimental, and minimalist approach.

The fundamental tenets of contemporary architecture emphasize that form should reflect function, featuring sleek lines, spacious layouts, ample natural light, and minimal decorative elements. A modern structure is crafted to showcase its essential purpose and practicality, enhancing the human experience.

Discover the origins of contemporary architecture and how to identify its key features.

What defines contemporary architecture?

Contemporary architecture, often referred to as modernist architecture or the International Style, prioritizes functionality and sleek forms over decorative elements. Emerging in the 1930s, this design movement marked a shift away from the intricate and embellished designs characteristic of styles such as Queen Anne, Victorian, or Gothic Revival. Typically associated with the 1970s, modern architecture is recognized for its crisp, clean lines.

The Evolution of Contemporary Architecture

The modern movement had a lengthy duration, featuring various sub-styles that lasted for almost six decades. This makes it challenging to identify a precise beginning. For some, the movement incorporates transitional designs, such as Art Deco and the Arts and Crafts movements. For others, these earlier styles acted as a source of inspiration for the more pure midcentury modern architects.

The emergence of contemporary design was rooted in the principle that the shape of an object should be determined by its intended use. This concept was introduced by architect Louis Sullivan, who created structures for the 1893 Chicago World Fair. This guiding philosophy laid the groundwork for future generations of modern architects.

Notable figures in the realm of contemporary architecture also encompass Frank Lloyd Wright, the Staatliches Bauhaus, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Le Corbusier.

The 1930s witnessed the flourishing of contemporary design principles, which became recognized as International Modernism or the International Style. This movement emerged following an architectural exhibition curated by Philip Johnson in 1932.

Typically, the most recognized instances of contemporary architecture date back to the mid-20th centuryhowever, the design approach continues to impact structures well into the late 20th century.

As the design era progressed, numerous architects began to question the rigid interpretation of space and the absence of decoration, viewing it as uninviting and sterile. This shift led to the emergence of more modern designs that embraced the use of embellishments and vibrant hues. In a modern residence, it is possible to achieve a balance between an open floor plan and secluded areas.

By the 1960s and 1970s, the contemporary concepts of abundant open space and the raw, unrefined qualities of construction materials were perceived as overly austere for daily life, leading to the emergence of innovative architectural styles.

The Principles of Contemporary Architectural Thought

Contemporary residences marked a significant shift by adopting the idea of open, flowing spaces. This philosophy turned away from clutter and unnecessary possessions, emphasizing four fundamental principles:

• Construction was to utilize solely cutting-edge materials of the era, including glass, steel, and concrete.
• Purpose: A structure ought to clearly express its function through its appearance, devoid of any decorative elements or embellishments.
• Comfort: An expansive area filled with natural light and expansive windows fosters a connection with nature, enhancing overall well-being.
• Enhancements to the structure: Purposeful modifications to the structure featured elevated buildings supported by pillars to accommodate parking or communal areas on the ground level, elongated bands of windows to enhance natural light, and the removal of load-bearing walls to create more spacious and adaptable environments.

Features of Contemporary Architecture

Modern architecture encompasses a wide variety of styles, each with its own distinct traits. Below are some of the prevalent, overarching characteristics that can be observed in various types of modern architectural design:

• Sleek, simple contours. These contours are free from extra embellishments and typically feature a uniform, polished surface.
• Expansive roof eaves. Numerous contemporary residences highlight low, horizontal designs featuring substantial roof overhangs.
• The structure features expansive glass walls and oversized windows. This abundant use of glass facilitates an impressive influx of natural light into the interior space.
• Spacious and clearly defined layouts. With contemporary architecture prioritizing aesthetics over practicality, designers aimed to create expansive floorplans where dining and living areas seamlessly connect.
• Contemporary and classic construction materials. In today’s residences, frequently utilized materials encompass steel, concrete blocks, iron, and glass. In contrast, traditional materials such as wood, brick, and stone are often employed to highlight their inherent beauty and enhance the exterior color palette.
• A connection to the external environment. Considerable consideration was given to the design of locations and the way structures would interact with the natural scenery around them.
• Asymmetrical structures. Contemporary architects experimented with bold, streamlined forms and unbalanced arrangements that were thoughtfully designed and free from extraneous embellishments.

Categories of Contemporary Architecture

In the United States, modern architecture encompasses a variety of styles. Between the years of 1930 and 1970, notable categories included Expressionism, Constructivism, and Midcentury Modern, among others. Below are some of the most well-known styles of modern architecture.

Architecture of the Early Modern Period

Previous instances of contemporary architecture featured structures that prominently displayed their structural elements and materials, including metal frameworks, steel, and concrete. While ornamentation and aesthetic appeal were still present, they served a functional role. For example, Frank Lloyd Wright integrated art glass windows into his designs, eliminating the need for separate decorative art.

Mid-20th Century Modern Design

By the mid to late 1940s, the evolution of modern architecture began to embrace a more human-centric aesthetic. While midcentury modern design maintained its minimalist and functional principles, it also incorporated warmer, more organic materials such as wood, expansive glass to enhance natural light, and generous open floor layouts.

Postmodern

In the 1970s, a reaction against the clean, minimalist designs of contemporary architecture emerged, leading to the rise of postmodern architecture. This movement drew inspiration from earlier architectural styles, characterized by their rich colors, lively forms, and intricate details. The revival of ornamentation marked a significant shift, and the diverse styles from this period remain influential to this day.

Notable Instances of Contemporary Architecture

Across the nation, remarkable instances of contemporary architecture remain in excellent condition, with numerous structures accessible for public tours. Here are several notable buildings crafted by modern architects:

• Eames House designed by Charles and Ray Eames
• Philip Johnson’s Glass House
• Fallingwater, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is an iconic architectural masterpiece.
• Farnsworth House, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
• Barcelona Pavilion designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe
• The Seagram Building, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in collaboration with Philip Johnson.

Contemporary vs. Modern Architecture

Modern and contemporary architectural styles are distinct, despite common misconceptions that they are identical. Modern architecture, which emerged from the modernism art movement, was prominent until approximately 1960. In contrast, contemporary architecture encompasses a wide range of architectural styles that have developed from the 1960s to the present day.

What are the key characteristics of contemporary architecture?

Contemporary architecture is characterized by its simplicity and emphasis on the materials and functionalities of structures. It features clean lines, spacious layouts, and a generous use of natural light.

What are the fundamental principles of contemporary architecture?

The fundamental principle of contemporary architecture is that design is determined by purpose, and simplicity is key. A modern structure, whether a building or a residence, distinctly and visually communicates its purpose and function, devoid of unnecessary embellishments.

What architectural style contrasts with modern design?

The diverse, playful, and vibrant Postmodern architectural style emerged as a counterpoint to the starkness of modern architecture. This style began to take shape in the 1970s and later developed into the Memphis Design movement in the 1980s.