Modern architecture is generally characterized by simplification of form and an absence of applied decoration.

It is a
term applied to an overarching movement, with its exact definition and scope varying widely.
[1]
In a broader sense, early
modern architecture began at the turn of the 20th century with efforts to reconcile the principles underlying architectural
design with rapid technological advancement and the modernization of society. It would take the form of numerous
movements, schools of design, and architectural styles, some in tension with one another, and often equally defying such
classification.
[1]

The concept of modernism is a central theme in these efforts. Gaining popularity after the Second World War,
architectural modernism was adopted by many influential architects and architectural educators, and continues as a
dominant architectural style for institutional and corporate buildings into the 21st century. Modernism eventually generated
reactions, most notablyPostmodernism which sought to preserve pre-modern elements, while Neomodernism emerged as
a reaction to Postmodernism.
Notable architects important to the history and development of the modernist movement include Le Corbusier, Ludwig
Mies van der Rohe, Walter Gropius, Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, Gerrit Rietveld, Oscar Niemeyer and Alvar Aalto.
Characteristics[edit]


The Salk Institute complex in La Jolla, California, by architect Louis Kahn.
Common themes of modern architecture include:
the notion that "Form follows function", a dictum originally expressed by Frank Lloyd Wright's early mentor Louis
Sullivan, meaning that the result of design should derive directly from its purpose
simplicity and clarity of forms and elimination of "unnecessary detail"
materials at 90 degrees to each other
visual expression of structure (as opposed to the hiding of structural elements)
the related concept of "Truth to materials", meaning that the true nature or natural appearance of a material ought to
be seen rather than concealed or altered to represent something else
use of industrially-produced materials; adoption of the machine aesthetic
particularly in International Style modernism, a visual emphasis on horizontal and vertical lines

Art Nouveau (also known as Style Moderne and Jugendstil) strongly influenced
European architecture and the decorative arts from c1888 to c1914, as seen here in a
house by Hector Guimard in Versailles, France, from 1901, featuring asymmetry,
attenuated foliage, vines, tendrils, curves and a lack of obvious historicism (although there
may be late Gothic Revival and Rococo aspects). Metalwork particularly suited the fluidity
of the style.

10 Attributes That Define Modern Architecture
INSPIRED BY FUNCTION
Modern architecture breaks away from
cookie-cutter design and traditional
aesthetics. It strives to create home
designs that go beyond standard
ideas and instead pursue projects
inspired by layout, location, and
function. Frank Lloyd Wrights mentor,
Louis Sullivan famously stated that,
Form follows function. This idea is
expressed by Modernisms tendency to
have land or the function of a project
dictate much of the design ideas. For
example, Wright was famous for
building with the land - his residential
homes almost always relied on the lot
to determine how the building was to
be laid out. Wright believed that a building should be one with the land and not simply plopped down on
top of it. Modernist architecture takes inspiration from the project itself - if the project is meant to
showcase something, house something particular, or be occupied by a particular person, Modern
architectures aim is to design for each unique situation and to be inspired by its purpose.
SIMPLICITY IN FORM AND DESIGN
Modern architecture is typically free of clutter and unnecessary elements. The goals of the project are
clarified at the start, and only the features that are required are included in the design. Residential homes
are often stripped down to showcase the architectural design of the home - the focus will be on the space
itself, rather than on any decor or details not relevant to the overall design. Homeowners following a
Modern aesthetic believe strongly in the idea of Less is More! Modern tastes enjoy simplicity and clarity.
Homes will be clean, functional, and simple. There are
varying degrees of Modernism - some will opt for the strict
design sense of true Minimalism, while others prefer to
incorporate the minimalist aesthetics of Modernism in
conjunction with their own personal style. Choosing your
own design elements in the way of colours, textures, and
interesting furnishings will help create a more unique Modern
style.
NOTHING TO HIDE
Rather than concealing the nature of the home, Modern style
wants the viewer to see the inner-workings and the true
nature of the project. Materials are shown in the natural form
and are showcased. Nothing is hidden or altered to look like
something else. Structural elements are revealed to show
the structure and supports. Exposed beams, open floor
plans, and structural elements are exposed to the viewer.
The idea of a sense of Truth is present in the home, where
all materials and architectural elements are bare and
revealed honestly.
LOVE OF ALL THINGS LINEAR
Modern architects love lines; in many Modern designs, you will find strong linear elements and bold
horizontal and vertical features. Beams, posts, cutouts, windows, staircases, fireplaces, roof lines, and
other structural elements all assist the architect in creating a linear-inspired space. This focus is much
more prominent in Modern design and is less important in other, more traditional, building styles. Lines of
Modern architecture tend to be straight and angled rather than curved, however organic lines can sneak
their way into Modern home design.
BOLD ROOF LINES
Instead of opting for the traditional
triangular-based or craftsman style roof
lines, Modern architecture dares to
push the envelope on roof design.
Homes might have multiple roof lines at
different levels, showing off the
complexity of the overall design and the
uncommon silhouette of the structure.
Varying lines and elongated vaulted
ceilings, as well as interesting
overhangs or unusual linear elements
are mixed to create a a more unique
statement. This focus on the exterior
design in one of the highlighting feature
of Modern design. The house exists as
more than simply a home - it is an
artistic and sculptural statement.
WINDOWS AS DESIGN
Many mid-century homes use windows extensively to bring in light. These homes often feature floor-to-
ceiling windows and lots of sliding doors. They may also include clerestory windows that are set high in
the walls of a home to let in light while preserving privacy.
CREATIVE OPEN FLOOR PLANS
Most include an open living/dining/kitchen area, often accented with a fireplace as a kind of gathering
point.Mid-century homes played with their use of space, with floors divided on split levels or through
sunken spaces designed for conversation or lounging.Prominent features of modern architecture include
open interior floor plans with fewer walls.
POST-AND-BEAM ARCHITECTURE
Instead of interior walls functioning as support walls, they serve more as room dividers or for appearance.
In many homes, pony walls extend from the floor to just below the ceiling, separating rooms while
allowing them to share light.
REVAMPED OUTDOOR SPACE
Multiple rooms open onto a large patio or atrium, designed to extend square footage and blur distinctions
between the indoors and outdoors.exterior building materials of glass and steel. Modern architecture
almost always incorporates the topography of the land it is built on within the home's design. An excellent
example of this is Fallingwater. Other designs seamlessly connect the interior with the exterior through
glass walls.
FOCUS ON MATERIALS
Many mid-century modern homes blended established materials such as wood and brick with then-newer
materials such as man-made floorings. They also incorporated new technologies such as radiant floor
heat and building techniques such as construction atop slab concrete foundations.