The terms “modern” and “contemporary” in architecture are often used interchangeably. However, you must find the subtle difference between these two architectural styles. So, what you might consider modern or contemporary architecture is different in its own strict definition. 

The architectural style that flourished from the early 1900s to the 1950s can be rightly called modern architecture. When you say contemporary architecture, it points to trends, styles, and designs of the present. Modern architecture is changeless, while contemporary architecture is ever-changing. 

Now, let us further explore the difference between modern and contemporary architecture and how each impacts new home construction. 

What is Modern Architecture?

The 19th century was replete with highly complex and ornate home design which was called high style architecture. The Edwardian and Victorian styles were prevalent in almost all the houses during this period. Then came the 20th century and the modernist architects who wanted to try new home designs that were distinct from the so-called high-style architecture. 

The modernist architects from the early 1900s to the 1950s deviated from the highly decorated and ornate home designs of the previous century. They adopted open floor plans, glass walls, big panels of windows, and asymmetry in their architectural styles instead. The modernist omitted what is unnecessary and focused more on simplicity and functionality. 

The advent of technology also influenced how people lived then and their way of thinking. Rapid change and high productivity characterized the zeitgeist at the time, and people were going against the traditions of the previous era. 

Homes designed by modern architects had more connection to nature. The idea was that the outdoor area of the home should complement the interior. Plus, modernists more or less eliminated the boundary between the interior and exterior of the house. 

Distinctive Characteristics of Modern Architecture

Below are the characteristics of modern architecture that make it distinct from other architectural styles. 

• Environmental Connection. Modern architecture places more importance on airflow and natural light into the interior. There is also an emphasis on using natural materials like wood. 

• Functionality. Modern architects focus more on functionality, as can be seen in the open floor plans of their home projects. These architects want to keep things simple yet functional. 

• Comfort. Since modernist-inspired homes do not have ornate decorations, their ambiance is more laid-back. The use of natural materials also contributed to the comfortability of the building. 

• Clear Lines. Simple lines without unnecessary details characterized modern architecture. This feature is another way that it departs from Edwardian and Victorian styles. 

What is Contemporary Architecture?

Contemporary architecture points to fads, styles, and trends of the present. This architectural style came out in the 1970s, but it did not stay the same. It is ever-changing, but it has some definitive characteristics. Contemporary architects tend to incorporate the innovation and advancement of today in their home designs. 

In contrast, contemporary architecture is more complex than modern architecture. You can see a combination of different styles and free-form lines in contemporary homes. The architects also place importance on free movement in the interior of the building. 

Contemporary architecture does not depend heavily on a single style. It has many influences but tries to capture what is popular at present. 

Characteristics of Contemporary Architecture of Today

At present, the contemporary home embraces many high-technology features. There is also the incorporation of environment-friendly and sustainable materials and energy-efficient home appliances. 

Off-the-grid living is also popular nowadays. You can now find houses made from repurposed materials such as old shipping containers and barn wood. There is also the aim of being practical among homeowners during and after the pandemic. As people are becoming more environmentally conscious and practical, their houses reflect the homeowners’ mindset. 

Modern vs. Contemporary Architecture

Aside from the visual difference between both architectural styles, there are other things that separate modern and contemporary architecture from each other. Typically, listing a home as “modern” helps it to sell faster. It is kind of astonishing because modern houses are more pricey than contemporary homes. 

There is a general belief among homebuyers that contemporary homes are dated compared to modern houses. They think that contemporary homes are the same as the 1970s houses when this architectural style first became popular. What many homebuyers do not know is that contemporary architecture is ever-changing and reflects the trends of the day. 

Perhaps more efforts should be put into educating homebuyers or those planning to build a home regarding the differences between modern and contemporary architecture. 

Final Thoughts

Do not confuse modern and contemporary architectural styles anymore. The two have differences that you must know if you want to build or buy a home. Modern architecture typically refers to home designs that gained popularity between the 1900s to 1950s. Contemporary architecture, meanwhile, points to the architectural styles and trends of the present.