What Is Modern Architecture? Our Guide to the Iconic Design Movement
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Architecture in the 20th century was defined by a single dominant style: modernism. This design movement transformed the built environment by moving away from ornate, historical styles and embracing simplicity and functionality. In fact, the entire movement can be summed up by the adage “form follows function.”
Modern architecture has given rise to some of the world's most distinctive—and sometimes polarizing—landmarks, from iconic skyscrapers to intimate residences. With insights from industry professionals, let's take a closer look at the enduring influence and significance of modernism architecture.
What Is Modern Architecture?
Modern (or modernist) architecture is the preeminent design movement of the 20th century in the Western world. It demonstrates a radical shift from historical architectural styles in favor of functional minimalism, using materials like steel, glass, and concrete. Its popularity peaked between the 1930s and 1970s, between the design movements of Art Deco and postmodernism.
However, the roots and influence of modern architecture extend well beyond these dates. Modernism also encompasses quite a few subgenres of architecture, among them Bauhaus, International Style, and Brutalism.
What Is the History of Modern Architecture?
Though modern architecture is a 20th-century movement, its roots can be traced back to the late 19th century, specifically to American architect Louis Sullivan. In an 1896 essay about skyscrapers, he coined the phrase “form follows function,” which eventually became the rallying cry of modernist architects everywhere.
“Modern architecture is rooted in the principle that the design of a building should prioritize the experience of those inhabiting it, focusing on simplicity, practicality, and minimal ornament,” says architect and interior designer Lisa Welch.
The rise of modern architecture was heavily influenced by the Industrial Revolution, which introduced new materials and technologies that allowed for innovative construction methods.
“Previously, the Victorian period of architecture of the late 1800s and early 1900s was dark, compartmentalized, and heavily ornamented,” says architect Diana Melichar. “The modern style of architecture embraced technology and the capabilities of the Industrial Revolution to provide a simpler architecture, devoid of costly detailing, and provided lots of light and air.”
European architects Le Corbusier, Walter Gropius, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe were among the pioneers of modernism; they brought the movement to the United States as they fled World War II. Additionally, American architects, including Philip Johnson and Frank Lloyd Wright, championed modern architecture at home.
What Are the Key Characteristics of Modern Architecture?
Le Corbusier codified modern architecture in his manifesto “Five Points of Architecture.” Those five points encompass the following:
Pilotis, or concrete pillars that lift a building off the ground to provide circulation beneath it
Free design of the floor plan, or an open floor plan
Free design of the façade, or reduced structural constraints in exterior walls
Horizontal windows
Roof gardens
While other architects took liberty with these points, they were largely influenced by them. In addition to those mentioned in Le Corbusier's design credo, modernist architecture generally includes the features listed below.
Minimal Ornamentation
In modern architecture, ornamentation is minimized or eliminated, as are any references to traditional styles of architecture. This is a new design movement that represents the new, industrial world.
New Materials
Modern architecture prioritizes industrial materials like steel, concrete, and glass. While these materials provided advanced structural capabilities, they were also considered beautiful.
Clean, Horizontal Lines and Open Floor Plans
New materials and engineering techniques allowed modernist architects to employ clean, horizontal lines throughout their open-plan spaces.
Connection With Nature
“Glass exterior walls allow for a great connection between inside and outdoor spaces,” says Melichar. “Hence, this style became quite popular in California and other locations where homes were being built after World War II.”
How Is Modern Architecture Different From Contemporary Architecture?
When discussing architectural movements, it's important to distinguish between “modern” and “contemporary,” as these terms are not interchangeable. Modern architecture refers specifically to the 20th-century design movement and isn't related to current trends. Meanwhile, the term “contemporary” describes what is currently happening in architecture and design, reflecting present-day innovations and styles.
Famous Modern Buildings Around the World
Bauhaus Dessau, Dessau, Germany
Many of the leading modernist architects lectured at the Bauhaus school, housed in this building designed by Walter Gropius.
Villa Savoye, Poissy, France
Villa Savoye is widely regarded as a pure manifestation of Le Corbusier’s vision for modernist architecture; all five points from his manifesto are exemplified here.
The Glass House, New Canaan, Connecticut
Philip Johnson’s Glass House is a striking example of minimalism, with expansive glass walls that bring nature directly into the living space. Melichar calls it a favorite, citing its “humble simplicity and connection to nature.”
The Seagram Building, New York City, New York
This iconic building, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson, is an example of the International Style, used frequently in skyscraper design. Interestingly, the architects didn't only use steel in its construction—they used bronze on its façade.
Maison de Verre, Paris, France
The Maison de Verre by Pierre Chareau showcases an innovative use of glass blocks and open, flexible spaces. As Welch notes, the residence highlights “the dynamic relationship between architecture and natural light.”
Fallingwater, Mill Run, Pennsylvania
Perhaps Frank Lloyd Wright's most famous work, Fallingwater is an ode to modernism, between its clean, horizontal lines and deep connection to nature. It's built directly above a waterfall.
Eames House, Los Angeles, California
The Eames House by Charles and Ray Eames, also known as Case Study House No. 8, comprises two glass-and-steel structures: one is a residence and the other is a studio.
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