Modern architecture has long captivated the imaginations of designers, builders, and homeowners alike. With its clean lines, minimalist aesthetic, and focus on functionality, this style has reshaped the way we think about buildings and living spaces.

Lykkers who appreciate sleek design and innovation will find modern architecture both inspiring and practical.

The Origins of Modern Architecture

Modern architecture as we know it began to take shape in the early 20th century. It was born out of the Industrial Revolution and a desire to break free from the ornate and elaborate designs of previous eras, such as the Gothic and Baroque styles. The movement prioritized simplicity, functionality, and a rejection of unnecessary ornamentation.

Key figures in the birth of modern architecture include Le Corbusier, a Swiss-French architect whose works were defined by simplicity and utility, and Walter Gropius, the founder of the Bauhaus School in Germany. The Bauhaus School became a center for innovation in design and helped spread the ideas of modern architecture across Europe and eventually the world.

Key Characteristics of Modern Architecture

Lykkers interested in adopting modern architecture for their home or project should be aware of some key features of the style:

Simplicity and Minimalism: Modern architecture focuses on clean lines, open spaces, and uncluttered designs. Instead of intricate details, modern buildings emphasize functionality.

Use of Glass, Steel, and Concrete: Modern architects embraced industrial materials such as reinforced concrete, steel, and glass. The use of glass allows for natural light to flood into the building, creating bright, airy interiors. Steel and concrete, on the other hand, provide strength and durability.

Form Follows Function: One of the most famous tenets of modern architecture is the idea that form should follow function. This means that the design of the building should serve its purpose, and unnecessary decoration should be avoided.

Integration with Nature: While modern architecture often stands in contrast to its surroundings, many designs also aim to blend in or complement the landscape. Expansive windows and outdoor spaces are common features that help to merge the interior with the exterior environment.

What is Modern Architecture? | ARCHITECTURE 101

Video by All Things Architecture

When and Where Did Modern Architecture Flourish?

The modern architecture movement gained momentum in the 1920s and 1930s, largely in Europe. However, after the mid-20th century, the style spread to the United States, where it evolved into the Mid-Century Modern style. This period, lasting from the 1940s to the 1960s, saw the rise of some of the most iconic modern homes, characterized by open floor plans, large glass walls, and an emphasis on bringing the outdoors in.

One of the most famous examples of modern architecture is Fallingwater, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935. This house in Pennsylvania perfectly integrates into its natural surroundings, with a stream running directly beneath the building.

In Europe, the influence of Le Corbusier’s designs can still be seen in many urban environments. His love for open spaces and efficient designs continues to inspire architects today.

Cost and Planning for Modern Architecture

Building a modern home can vary significantly in cost depending on the materials, location, and complexity of the design. In general, modern homes with large glass panels and high-end materials such as concrete and steel may have higher upfront costs than traditional homes. However, many modern designs are energy-efficient, which can lead to savings in the long run.

Cost Range: On average, building a modern home may cost between $200 to $500 per square foot, depending on the region and the specifics of the design.

Time: The construction of a modern home typically takes 6 to 12 months, depending on the size and complexity of the project.

For those interested in remodeling or incorporating modern architectural elements into an existing structure, the cost can vary. Simple additions like installing large windows or using modern materials in renovations can add a contemporary feel to traditional homes.

Where to See Modern Architecture

Modern architecture can be found all over the world, but a few cities are particularly renowned for their collections of modernist buildings:

Berlin, Germany: As the birthplace of the Bauhaus movement, Berlin is home to several iconic modernist structures, including Walter Gropius’s Bauhaus Archive.

Chicago, USA: Known as the birthplace of the skyscraper, Chicago is a city that boasts several impressive modernist buildings, including those by Mies van der Rohe, one of the pioneers of modern architecture.

Barcelona, Spain: With its combination of traditional and modernist buildings, Barcelona is an architectural lover’s dream. The city is home to Casa Mila and other buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, who blended modern design with whimsical elements.

Lykkers' Guide to Modern Architecture

If you’re considering building or visiting a modern home, here are some final tips:

Incorporate Natural Elements: Bringing in natural light through large windows and creating outdoor spaces that flow into the interior can add warmth to a minimalist design.

Prioritize Function: Stick to the principle that form should follow function. Every element of the design should serve a purpose.

Sustainable Materials: Many modern architects focus on sustainability. Consider using eco-friendly materials like recycled steel or reclaimed wood to lower the environmental impact.

Conclusion

Modern architecture offers a fresh and innovative approach to design, blending simplicity, function, and beauty. For Lykkers who appreciate clean lines, open spaces, and a minimalist aesthetic, modern architecture provides endless inspiration. Whether you’re planning to build a new home, visit iconic modernist structures, or simply learn more about this influential style, modern architecture is a testament to the power of design to shape the way we live.