New Home Construction Trends – Modern or Contemporary
/New Home Construction Trends – Modern or Contemporary
Building a custom home means having complete control over all aspects of the design. There are dozens of architectural styles. The great thing about creating a custom home is the freedom to choose the perfect architectural style that is functional, beautiful, and reflects your unique vision.
We are custom home builders in Burke, Virginia. We specialize in residential construction. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality construction and green design. This blog will focus on modern and contemporary design, outlining defining characteristics and qualities of these design styles.
There are many considerations in designing and building custom homes. These include climate, site characteristics such as shape, slope and soil, the surrounding neighborhood styles and whether these are restricted by HOA or CC&Rs, roof pitch, etc. Today we are taking a look at the modern and contemporary styles.
After the second world war, architects began using glass, steel and concrete materials for home design, as opposed to these materials being confined to the structure. Modern architecture was a rejection of traditional architecture popular throughout the 19th century like Queen Anne, Victorian, or Gothic Revival styles. It is inspired by the historical modernism movement, and is an effort to maintain architectural simplicity while making it more functional.
A modern home has an open floor plan and values function over form. Although modern architecture is related to contemporary architecture, the latter refers to current architectural trends, and is not limited to one specific style. Contemporary architecture borrows many elements from modern architecture.
Modern architecture typically involves sharp, clean lines, low and horizontal planes, use of modern materials or traditional materials in new ways, and plenty of glass allowing for natural light. It is focused on materials, and the effective use of space. Modern buildings are simplistic and functional, with elegance and sophistication.
Long, simple structural lines give modern architecture a timeless and luxurious feel. Large windows integrate natural light, making interior spaces warm and inviting. It creates a seamless feel between the natural outdoor and indoor spaces. Modern buildings reflect the lifestyle of those living in the space, and commonly incorporate straight forward silhouettes, organic shapes, and an emphasis on functionality.
Contemporary design typically involves mid-century modern and art deco elements, minimalism, and neutral colors. Contemporary design style utilizes state of the art and/or eco friendly materials, such as steel, glass, concrete, metal, and stone. This style offers high function, with open floor plans. Kitchens, dining rooms and entertaining spaces flow together seamlessly. Flooring is typically wood or vinyl, with area rugs helping to define areas in simple patterns and/or geometric shapes.
Contemporary is classic, but of-the-moment, calm, serene, and sophisticated. The contemporary home has clean lines, and may have exposed structural details such as brick or pipe to add character to rooms. Interior spaces typically lack drapes, and may have minimal window treatments, allowing natural light and shadows to create patterns on walls and furniture. Contemporary style is uncluttered and minimalistic. This style uses simplicity as an opportunity for versatility and spontaneity in art elements and accessories.
If you are looking for a custom home builder in the Northern Virginia and Washington DC area, we are happy to meet with you and make your custom home vision a reality!