Modern vs. Contemporary
As a new client to A43 Architecture, we will ask you to provide us with imagery and descriptions in order for us to understand your overall design taste and style. Many clients say they want something ‘Modern’ and/or ‘Contemporary’, however, those words can have different implications. With this article we want to help you understand these design terms so that you can more accurately communicate what you are looking for in your future home.
While Modern and Contemporary homes can have similarities, there are key differences between the 2 styles. Modern architecture points to a type of style built between the early 1900’s and late 1980’s. It is a very distinct, defined style and it doesn’t change. Contemporary design essentially means ‘the style of today’. It refers to the ever-changing trends in house design of today.
What is Modern Architecture?
When we use the term Modern we are referring to American or "Wrightian" Modernist architecture. Modern homes are characterized by minimalist designs that emphasize function. They are recognizable for their rectangular forms, lack of adornment, and whitewashed exteriors. Many Modern homes were also built with the landscape in mind. For instance, the roof might reflect the natural surroundings with low lines and deep overhangs Modern homes further incorporate an appreciation of nature with horizontal compositions built low to the ground, and expansive glass windows or walls.
While Modern architecture may at first appear stark, it often includes natural materials in their natural state like wood with rich, warm tones to ground the space. Modern homes are also known for their inviting, open floor plans. Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind when identifying Modern architecture:
Rectilinear forms
Lack of ornament
Low, horizontal composition
Elements of asymmetry
Open floor plans
Large glass windows
Simple color pallettes
Natural materials like wood
Emphasis on nature
What is Contemporary Architecture?
This type of architecture is fluid in style, incorporating design elements of both past and present day. For that reason, Contemporary homes often include elements typically found in Modern homes. Hence why the two are so frequently confused.
Contemporary homes are unique for their incorporation of multiple architectural styles. While they feature the minimal adornment, open spaces and large windows of Modern homes, they are also characterized by free-form composition not found in Modernist architecture. With today’s technology, architects are no longer limited to linear forms. For this reason, Contemporary homes tend to incorporate dramatic curves and seemingly impossible proportions.
Another main feature of many Contemporary homes is eco-friendly, sustainable design and smart-home technology that reflects a response to today’s climate-change emergency. For instance, Contemporary homes are often constructed of natural and recycled materials. Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind when identifying Contemporary architecture:
Combination of styles
Both angles and curves
Free-form composition
Elements of asymmetry
Open floor plans
Large glass windows
Mixed materials
Emphasis on nature
Sustainable design
Technology integrated into design
What is Mountain Modern Architecture?
Another term that is frequently used in this industry, especially by our Teton County clients, is ‘Mountain Modern’. Based on the explanation above, we believe that the term should actually be called ‘Mountain Contemporary’.
Whether it is correctly named or not, this term pays homage to mountain life and makes these homes more livable. Without the clutter and kitsch of traditional mountain ‘cabins’, mountain living becomes a lot more comfortable. What’s more, this design style respects the land. Here are some common aspects of Mountain Modern Design:
Unique exterior- It takes a fresh take on classic rustic homes with sharp, Modern edges
Uncluttered layout- Open layouts and tall ceilings encourage relaxation and subscribe to a bigger, brighter, more open aesthetic. Sometimes relying on large, impactful pieces to make a statement.
Large glass windows- Nature is framed as the most important feature. Designs that take advantage of natural light.
Texture over color- Emphasis on building materials: glass, stone, wood, concrete etc. while using neutral colors.
Local sourcing- Often including reclaimed materials. This also helps the home blend better with natural surroundings.
Indoor/Outdoor living- Outdoor land is part of the total living space- retractable windows, decks, porches, hot tubs etc.
Low maintenance design- Can put up with weather, precipitation, and even wildlife. Utilizing local stone and native plants means spending less time on maintenance.
Still confused? It takes some time to understand these terms, and the A43 team is here to help you clearly define and understand your design preferences. If a client is clear on their design expectations, there will be less confusion as the project progresses.
When it comes to design, the A43 style innately lands somewhere in the middle of all these terms. Our design intuition is more along the lines of ‘less is more’. We prefer to avoid ornament and let the forms and materials do all the talking. Whether the design is Modern, Contemporary, Traditional, or other, we believe strongly in honest representations of materials and structure. Have questions? Give us a call at 307-249-8650.
Article Sources:
KHov- Modern vs. Contemporary Architecture: What’s the difference?
Design Blendz- Contemporary vs. Modern Architecture
Mountain Modern Architecture: 7 Ways to Define the Trend