Modern and contemporary are two words that may often be used interchangeably, but they do have a thin line of difference when we talk of the influences on architecture. Joseph Cianciotto’s love for architecture and in-depth knowledge of it; helps him clearly distinguish the difference between the two.
The Modern form
The modern form of architecture was the result of the modern art movement during the Industrial Revolution. There was a striking difference in the way viewed life and depicted it in their art form. Thus, the end of the 20th century saw the emergence of modernism in architecture and to this day it remains a dominant style. The primary driving force of modernist architecture was the gradual evolution and inclusion of technology. It was back at the end of the 19th century that materials such as reinforced concrete, plate glass, and cast iron began to be used in building and construction.
Features of modernism in architecture
Being an architect and lover of modernism Joseph Cianciotto reveals that any constructed structure will be based on modernism if there appears to be a minimalistic approach. This, he informs is one of the basic modernist aesthetics. Highlighting the functionality of a building is the essence of modernist architecture; it does not focus much on embellishments.
The rectangular forms of the buildings and exteriors which are in most cases whitewashed are certainly ones that follow modernism in their architectural work. Constructing along the lines that are found to be occurring in the natural surrounding of a building, is also a way of working with modernism in architecture. This can be spotted in houses that may have a roof that reflects the naturally present lines of its surroundings.
Asymmetry also defines modern homes alongside open floor plans. There is a striking emphasis on nature with the use of wood as a predominant material in both the interior and the exterior. The composition of such buildings is mostly low and horizontal.
The Contemporary form
Marking its own identity the contemporary touch in architecture cannot be limited to any time frame, opines Joseph Cianciotto. They can be found within any period as they follow the trends that evolve at any specific time. This is the reason that makes them very fluid and does not stick to any style rigidly, be it of the past or the present. This is why a lot of the modernist touch is also found in these structures and confused for being based on modernism.
The fact, however, is that they incorporate elements from all time frames and that explains the overlap. One thing that they concentrate on is being eco-friendly, but that too is seamlessly blended with the best features of the other influences on architecture.
Predominant contemporary features
Some characteristics that can help one identify a contemporary piece of architecture include the following:
- Presence of both curves and angles
- Mixed materials
- Free-form composition
- Sustainable designs
- Combination of styles
- Asymmetrical designs
- Large-sized glass windows
It is important to know the difference between the two influences for either party involved. The architect needs to know so that the delivered result can reflect correctly the requirement of the owner of the property. On the other hand, the owner of the property needs to know the variances so that they can specify their requirements accurately and help the architect to produce appropriately.
