A Look At Some Of The Basic Elements Of Modern Architecture

Modern Architecture by Cramer Design of Parkdale, Victoria, Australia

Modern architecture is unlike any other type of architecture that ever preceded it. That’s what makes it so unique and so lovely to look at. If you are interested in getting into architecture, you should attend a school that will delve deeply into modern architecture, including its beauty as well as its flaws.

Continue reading if you are interested in learning about some of the basic elements that are involved in modern architecture so that you can spot it and recognize it easily when you see it while travelling around the world.

Clean, Simple Exteriors

Instead of using ornamental and decorative elements on buildings of all sizes, modern architects focus instead on creating smooth lines and plain exteriors that are very basic in appearance yet still very beautiful, sophisticated and eye-catching. These clean exteriors make it easy to pick out modern architecture in cities where older buildings are also prevalent, as the newer buildings will not have as much decorative trim or other types or ornamentation that used to be really common.

Making Use of Nature

Another unique element of modern architecture is the fact that it utilizes nature to help make a building more efficient, whether it is a place of business or someone’s home. For example, by properly planning the way in which a building will be constructed, a modern architect is able to take advantage of the warmth of the sun to provide extra heat throughout a home in the cold winter season. Recessed openings and overhangs, on the other hand, can provide ample amounts of shade that help a building stay as cool as possible throughout the hottest summer months of the year.

Cool, Modern Materials

Steel is a common element that is used both on the outside and inside of modern buildings, as is concrete, which is often left exposed and stained throughout buildings for businesses and families alike.

Open Floor Plans Throughout the Interior

And yet another defining element of modern architecture can be noted on the inside of the buildings that are constructed with a contemporary flair. Interior floor plans are open and flowing, rather than closed off with many doors, walls and hallways. While traditional buildings made use of walls and doors to close off certain areas, modern architects like to keep everything as bright, open and airy as possible.

When it comes to office environments, they are often large and open, with just a few pieces of furniture set around a space strategically to still allow for plenty of walking space. In homes, you will often find a kitchen that is open to the living room and dining room as well, without any dividers to separate the rooms, aside from furniture and clever design elements.

Modern architecture can be found all over the world. By focusing on clean lines, open floor plans throughout the interior and the ability to work with nature in order to lower energy consumption, modern architects are changing the environments in which people live and work every day.

Jenny Wadlow is a freelance blogger who often writes on topics pertaining to her interests online. She is associated with Cramer, a team of professional architects in Melbourne. She indulges in stitching and crochet when she gets free. You can follow her on Twitter @JennyWadlow.