What does Modern House Design really mean? Often the terms “modern” and “contemporary” were used to describe a home’s architecture. But what is the difference between the two?
Often real estate agents and homeowners used them interchangeably, when, in fact, these words mean two very different things.
Here is an overview. The term “modern” typically refers to a very distinctive architectural style of home that was built from the early 1900s to the 1950s. It’s a defined style and doesn’t change.
Contemporary architecture and design mean “the style of the moment.” It’s a lot harder to define because it’s always changing and is influenced by and borrows from the styles that came before.
Let’s break down the differences between modern and contemporary design even further.
Modern House Designs
Modernist architects chose to create homes that showed a distinct lack of ornament and flair, in contrast to what was seen in the popular home designs of the time. They designed homes that featured a strong horizontal composition with large open floor plans, intentional asymmetry, and large expanses of glass windows or glass walls.
The focus was to create a simplified home with an emphasis on function – removing unnecessary details and frills.
Modern design was born in response to the overly ornate, cluttered and fancy architecture of the late 19th century.
Many of the homes are designed and built not only to acknowledge the changing times but also to give homeowners a chance to feel more connected with nature.
While many of these homes at first glance can seem as if they’re cold or stark because of the sharp lines and lack of flair, many modern homes are actually very warm and inviting once you enter the home. This can be attributed largely to the materials used in the construction as well as the interior design of the home.
Some key qualities associated with modern homes style are square homes with flat roofs, a monochromatic color palette, and low-key furnishings with simple and distinct attention to minimalism while avoiding a stark, cold feeling.
Contains representations of the modern art movement. This includes:
- Clean straight lines
- Minimalism and free of clutter
- Use of wood and earthy elements
- Open floor plan
Contemporary House Design
What is a contemporary home design?
While modern refers to the early 1900s to the 1950s, the term contemporary doesn’t refer to a specific time period. Instead, it’s ever-changing and fluid. Contemporary home design is much more complex than modern-style homes.
Contemporary architecture is rooted in the “now.” This means that these types of homes are typically innovative and forward-looking.
The design of these homes is distinctly more complex than their modern counterparts. Their design is more free-form and artistic, taking cues from all types of design rather than as a response to the times.
It’s important to remember that architecture doesn’t stem from a specific movement and doesn’t refer to a specific time period. It’s fluid and always changing to match whatever is popular right now.
Since contemporary isn’t from a specific period of time, what’s contemporary today may be different in five years.
Because contemporary homes can have modern architectural features, it can be difficult to initially discern the differences between the two home designs.
The most distinguishing fact is that contemporary home architecture is influenced by the styles that came before it.
Contemporary architects can create a home that fits the needs of their client or whatever is in style at the time without having to adhere to a particular movement or design constraint.
One feature that makes many recently built contemporary homes stand out is that they often are built for sustainability, are generally eco-friendly and energy-efficient, and use materials that are often repurposed from their intended use.
What do Modern and Contemporary have in common?
While the terms modern and contemporary aren’t synonymous, they do have similarities. Both design styles share overlapping characteristics. They share simplistic characteristics and avoid ornate and complex elements.
Both involve a neutral color palette and open spaces. Both prefer clean spaces. You will find wood, metal, glass, and natural elements in the designs.
Can we have both Modern and Contemporary in one Home?
Whether you prefer more modern homes or the complexities of contemporary design, the only thing that matters is your love of the home. Find a design and style you love, then find someone who can make that dream a reality.
JJS Realty and Development is a real estate developer that is based in Lipa City Batangas that builds Modern-Contemporary house designs. JJS realty and Development is the developer behind Marian Heights located at Barangay Kayumanggi Lipa City and Diamond Heights located at Purok 1 Barangay Latag Lipa CIty.
See more Modern-Contemporary model houses at Diamond Heights and find a design and style you love.
Are you ready to build the home of your dreams? Whether you have a small family or a growing family, we’d love to help you. Contact us today and let’s talk about all the possibilities.
