Modern Architecture
Modern architecture is classified as simple designs that push the boundaries of uniform buildings through the creativeness and uniqueness of the modern architect. Historians date modern architecture back to the early 20th century, however production of modern architectural buildings was slow until after WWII. As it became a more popular style, institutional and corporate buildings were erected with modern architecture designs.
These days, most modern architecture buildings are found throughout Europe, although there are many beautiful, modern buildings worldwide. London is a perfect example of a city built by modern architects. The Crystal Palace, thin houses, the Gherkin Building, Container City, and London City Hall are all buildings of modern architecture.
Characteristics of Modern Architecture
There are certain distinguishing characteristics of this style of architecture that makes it ‘modern.’
Older characteristics include:
- Emphasis on horizontal and vertical lines
- Form follows function
- Simple designs, no unnecessary details
- An adoption of expressed structure
- An adoption of the machine aesthetic a creation of ornament using the structure and theme of the building
- Rejection of ornamentation
- An adoption of the principle that the materials and functional requirements determine the result
Newer characteristics include:
- Same as older characteristics
- Eco-friendly designs
- Green architecture designs
- Green building materials
Courses for Modern Architecture
If a student wants to become more involved in modern architecture once he or she is a licensed architect, there are a few courses he or she should pay extra attention to during their undergraduate and graduate programs. Taking classes that focus more on modern architecture throughout the years can help an architect understand the style more efficiently, which in turn can help him or her create and design modern architecture buildings in the future. To learn more about modern architecture, elective classes should include:
- History of Architecture
- Art History
- Design Theory
- Industrial Design
- Ergonomics
- Computer-Aided Industrial Design
Taking these courses can reinforce the values, traditions, and styles of modern architecture into your work and designs. Many people these days look for architects who have a sense and understanding of modern architecture designs, as do employers of large and small firms.
Architect Positions for Modern Architecture
Modern architecture plays a role in all architectural designs. Sometimes, architects don’t even realize they are using traditional modern designs when designing a building or indoor space. Modern architecture is all around us in buildings, yards, walkways, roadways, and indoor spaces. Even building materials are made of modern architecture materials, such as steel, glass and concrete. The types of architect’s who may or may not use the style of modern architecture in their designs are:
- Building Architects
- Residential Architects
- Non-residential Architects
- Interior Architects
- Modern Architects
- Contemporary Architects
- Landscape Architects
- Self-Employed Architects
Places of employment for modern architecture include:
- Large, prestigious firms
- Small residential firms
- Metropolitan area firms
- International firms, especially in Europe and Australia
