Contemporary Architecture; History, Characteristics, and Examples

I think that architecture of high technological society is one of the most expressive forms of architecture. It also engages new and unique designs that are meant to be recognized and admired. Right from the houses with one unit for every family to the spectacular buildings of modern day structures State-of-the-art structures have come up. Now, let us take a deep dive into the wonders of modern architecture, its history, characteristics, and examples of this type of architecture.

What Is Contemporary Architecture?

Contemporary architecture is a form where modern styles blend, sharing features that rely on fewer classicized building ideas. It is based on the desire to design and build structures different from those in the past and what is done presently. Contemporary architecture is innovative and focuses on breaking away from the procedures and ways of thinking that have become standard in architecture. Image Source: buzz4tours.com In some aspects contemporary architecture of today differs from modern architecture of early 20th century. This is because it comprises of the Ecological features and varied creativity. Furthermore, it represents modern technology and materials. This allows architects to work comparatively fast and with utmost accuracy. Let’s have a look at the brief history of contemporary architecture.

History of Contemporary Architecture

Looking at the history of contemporary architecture, it is generally considered to have originated after modern architecture in the second half of the 20th century. International cooperation and the global economy grew rapidly after World War II, notably affecting all art forms worldwide. Contemporary architecture design is marked by transcontinental ideals, an attempt to create structures that are integral to their environments, and a sense of placelessness. Image Source: architizer.com As today’s architects can use new, advanced techniques and technologies to access the materials, this does not necessary mean that they have to build exclusively in straight lines. For instance they can consider using the laser cutting technology and the 3D printing to manufacture the more precise, challenging, and unprecedented shapes. Also, the presentation of the designs with 3D renderings provides a photorealistic view of the building before the construction. This leads to more secure and sustainable structures and creates a façade which at first glance appears to be illogical, unnatural and almost irrational in its design as well as violation of normal aesthetic standards acceptable in a particular society.

Difference Between Modern and Contemporary Architecture

Modern architecture is a kind of architectural type that offers an extremely new approach from classical designs. Plain and uncluttered, with honest lines and little or no embellishment, it can be characterized by the use of black and white for walls, and floors, and the introduction of modern technology and materials. Modern architecture is to a great extent determined by modern art. Image Source: thespruce.com On the other hand, contemporary architecture incorporates whatever style is popular today. It focuses on innovation and usually defies logic to create unique and sophisticated buildings. Also, contemporary architecture is characterized by a free-form composition which is not the case with modernist architecture.

Characteristics of Contemporary Architecture

Here are some of the primary characteristics of contemporary architecture:

1. Form

When you look around, you’ll realize that the dominant line in most architecture is the straight line. Contemporary design is flexible and has often distanced itself from these straight lines by opting for curved lines. Sometimes, a structure is entirely designed using curved lines; sometimes, both straight and curved lines are used in the same structure. Image Source: business.inquirer.net Designs with smooth contours, circles, and other shapes that differ from the traditional preference for straight lines define modern architecture. This requires using modern materials like glass, wood, concrete, and aluminum screens to realize such refined and innovative concepts.

2. Open Floor Plans

Another typical feature of a modern design is the open layout. They convey a perception of openness and lightness in a building. While the conventional buildings are composed of walls which define the rooms, contemporary buildings do not have defined rooms and instead act as a continuous space linking from one space to another. Image Source: generationhomesnw.com This makes the space brighter and look bigger than it naturally is. The living room designs for family that enjoy company are more inviting and open and enables everyone to be involved in a conversation. Also, they give a sense of co-ordination to a structure and enables more dynamic applications which mean that you can turn any space into whatever you may want.

3. Unconventional Materials

Contemporary architecture is inherently inventive and unexpected. Therefore, it often features unique building materials for both the interior and exterior. It often uses modern materials and can also work with various natural or organic materials like concrete, brick, metal, wood, and stone. Image Source: cgbg.org Plants, too, have their place in contemporary architecture, mostly on roofs and increasingly on walls. So if you have green fingers, you can make use of this trend toward revegetation. For example, you can grow climbing plants all over a wall for a vertical garden. Also, because of the inclination to relinquish the norm, it is common for architects to specify unique materials such as recycled waste products and paper.

4. Composition of Volumes

Spacious interiors, simple geometric shapes, and minimalism – these are the key features of contemporary houses. So, you will see circles, organic lines, curves, and smooth outlines instead of precise angles and rigid geometry in modern buildings. Lines that curve also enable designers to conceive of spaces not restricted to cubes as those with straight lines. They normally bring about an air of beautiful twisting routes that offer up numerous options as far as design of the modern houses are concerned. Image Source: khanacademy.org Also, when contemporary architecture uses straight lines, meaning the unit of volume is a cube, it strives to assemble these cubes in unique ways to create a distinctive composition of volumes. And like rounded shapes, this composition creates the possibility of creating interesting interior spaces. So if you are not discreet about flaunting dissimilarity and like the idea of experiencing a custom-made living space, this is the architecture for you. Some architects also incorporate slanted ceilings and walls.

5. Flat Roofs

Other characteristic features of modern style include flat, overhanging roofs. In the past, roofing took a triangular design, which they called pitched roofs, to avoid snow, water, and ice accumulation on the roofs. Constructing the roof in this manner slows the accumulation of precipitation in colder climates and helps to eliminate problems with excessive moisture and structural damage. Image Source: modal-design.com In contemporary architecture, architects are choosing flat, overhanging roofs. This roof design is practical and decorative. It provides more shade, keeping the structure cool in summer while protecting your building from unwanted elements. Additionally, overhanging roofs project the architecture into the outdoors, creating a more cohesive design. Flat roofs can be made of innovative roofing materials that are not likely damaged by moisture. Such materials include PVC or EPDM rubber.

6. Nature Compliant

Contemporary architecture is also in harmony with the outdoor environment. Unlike classic designs that positioned the windows in the middle of walls and used them for outside viewing, contemporary architecture uses large panels of glass to allow natural light into the room. Image Source: jbsolis.com Such window designs also offer passive solar heating that generates comfort and openness even during winter. Lest we forget to mention the effects of clerestory windows and skylights. They offer light from the outside world.

7. Environmental Considerations

Sustainability in architecture is also a tendency that is gaining popularity. Therefore, eco-housing remains one of the key trends of this environment-oriented architecture. Natural builders seem to draw inspiration from nature. Image Source: pinterest.com It also helps in bringing forth structures that do not affect the future of living creatures due to their reliance on sustainable designs and eco-friendly materials. This may mean installing solar panels for roofing. The designs also go well with nature to co-exist with it in these sustainable designs that have a sense of accountability. This is why the majority of modern architecture is designed, deliberately infusing each new building with a sense of belonging to the landscape.

8. Minimalism in Design

With contemporary architecture, functionality is always paramount. Therefore, a contemporary house often highlights the space more than what is inside. As a result, contemporary architecture often showcases clean, non-fussy aesthetics. Although unique materials are used, molding and decorative trim are usually sparse. Image Source: selo.global This simplicity in design helps in creating a luxurious and tranquil atmosphere. Also, the curved facades help in breaking the geometric monotony.

9. Large Windows

Big and elongated windows are also typical in modern buildings. At the moment, nothing says opulence and relaxation better than windows that occupy the entire wall. Present day designs also have multiple openings with varying configurations in terms of orientation, providing large window, window walls and the use of skylight. Image Source: trendir.com Aside from producing stunning scenes, another result of this sort of aperture turns out to be using sunlight: first, as natural lighting; second, the potential of passive solar heating. It also has large windows that enhance the continuity between the inner and outer space. Therefore if you are a fan of fine sceneries or a strong admirer of natural light, then contemporary architectural design suits your preference.

10. Integrated Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology is an interesting characteristic of contemporary architecture that allows you to create a personalized environment in your contemporary home design to meet your lifestyle desires. This element has numerous benefits, including;

i) Convenience

Home automation tools provide a way to regulate every aspect of the home environment with a few voice actions. For instance, while a blanket on the sofa while closing the blind and dimming the lights and reducing the thermostat.

ii) Security

Using the remote-access abilities of smart home devices, you can set notifications and alarms for security cameras and doorbells, door and window sensors, and motion detection. With a click on your mobile smartphone, you can be certain that your home is safe.

iii) Potential Savings

The future of smart homes is power saving which would cut down on the cost of energy. these are intelligent devices and can be scheduled not to be operated unless required.

11. Bright Open Interiors

Because of the large glass windows and skylights, contemporary buildings often boast plenty of natural light. Also, they use an open floor plan, with minimum or total elimination of interior walls. Combining these two elements gives you a bright, comfortable, relaxing home.

12. Classicized Borrowed Ideas

Contemporary building designs borrow ideas from classicized styles. Most of its characteristics rely on ideas from the early to mid-20th century. With clean lines, this architecture exhibits a flexible form of creativity. Image Source: thedesigngesture.com Contemporary architects also use computer-aided software. This makes it easier to design most structures’ sophisticated shapes and curves.

Examples of Contemporary Architecture

Below are some of the most recognizable structures inspired by contemporary architecture:

1. The Blue Planet, Copenhagen

Architect: 3XN

Year completed: 2013 The blue planet is located in the United Kingdom and is the largest aquarium in Europe with 53 aquariums, over seven million liters of water and over four hundred fifty species of marine fish and other sea animals. But that is not the size that makes The Blue Planet unique but rather the design. Image Source: inexhibit.com It is effective in that is designed to replicate the fluid motion of the ocean with a series of curved wings. While an aerial perspective shows that The Blue Planet is formed to represent a ‘wasp’s tail’ or an ascending waterspout, the building is sheathed in a silvery aluminum resembling fish scales.

2. Central Library, Seattle

Architect: Rem Koolhaas and Joshua Prince-Ramus of OMA/LMN

Year Completed: 2004 The Seattle Central Library is one of the most innovative and exceptional libraries ever built. Several sections of the building are arranged across five platforms and four bounded planes, each serving different functions, a very intuitive design that gives the building its unique faceted shape. Image Source: historylink.org It is effective in that is designed to replicate the fluid motion of the ocean with a series of curved wings. While an aerial perspective shows that The Blue Planet is formed to represent a ‘wasp’s tail’ or an ascending waterspout, the building is sheathed in a silvery aluminum resembling fish scales.

3. Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles

Architect: Frank Gehry

Year Completed: 2003 It is one of the distinctive and controversial buildings in the history of architecture. The Walt Disney Hall is a smaller Guggenheim than the Bilbao, and antecedent to it in design. However, political intervention, procrastination, and budget constrains led to its delayed completion. Image Source: la.eater.com Despite the numerous delays, the end result is breathtaking architecture, symbolic of Gehry’s post-structuralist aesthetic with its unique blend of geometric shapes and comprehensive metallic surfaces.

4. Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, Baku

Image Source: archello.com Architect: Zaha Hadid Year Completed: 2012 This could be Zaha Hadid’s most iconic building. The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center may not be a catchy name, but the design is unforgettable. This 619,000-square-foot contemporary design is a seamless, dramatic curve building blending organically with the surrounding environment. The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre’s design bagged the London Design Museum award in 2014, securing its designer’s reputation as the ‘Queen of Curves.’

5. CCTV Headquarters, Beijing

Architects: Rem Koolhaas and Ole Scheeren of OMA

Year Completed: 2012 Rem Koolhaas’s CCTV Headquarters building is one of the strangest and most ambitious designs of recent years. It succeeded in transforming the idea of the skyscraper when it was launched in 2008. CCTV Headquarters was OMA’s first main building in China and is now a unique feature of the Beijing skyline. Image Source: chinahighlights.com The building is a trouser-shaped, spiral design, with the two 44-story towers joined by a 75-meter cantilever. It was built to contain the offices, TV studios, broadcasting, and production facilities of China Central Television (CCTV).

6. Royal Ontario Museum, Canada

Architects: Daniel Libeskind, John A. Pearson, and Frank Darling

Year Completed: 1932 This is one of the largest museums in North America and a great example of contemporary architecture. Royal Ontario Museum features an innovative design joined to a historical design of Neo-Romanesque architecture with effects from other aesthetics. The contemporary design came in through the Michael Lee-Chain Crystal. Image Source: rom.on.ca The Crystal is mostly made up of angular aluminum volumes and areas of glass. This form of design, where a modern building joins with a historic building, also known as adaptive reuse, is sometimes perceived as an aggressive move. Some people believe that these dynamic new structures don’t respect the qualities of the original structures. However, others believe that the Crystal, and other structures like it, make room for a remarkable new landmark that doesn’t try to mimic the original work.

7. The Shard, London

Image Source: mylondon.news Architect: Renzo Piano Year Completed: 2012 Typically, modern or post-modern architecture eliminates ornamentation from buildings with the result that such structures serve as monuments or icons that can be easily identified. This has been exemplified by the building of the Shard. This is one of famous London’s landmarks; it is the seventh tallest building in Europe; it has received its name after its shape resembled a shard of a glass. Despite the fact that it is predominantly a tall glass skyscraper, its wavy structure makes this building a thought-provoking architectural object.

8. The Sydney Opera House, Sydney

Architect: John Utzon

Year Completed: 1973 This is a performing arts center in Sydney, Australia. The Sydney Opera House is among the most photographed buildings worldwide and a famous symbol for Australia. The structure is enclosed by white concrete sails, creating the familiar composition of overlapping waves. Image Source: dkfindout.com The Sydney Opera House is one of the strategies that reflect art in its modern times. It also has features of expressionism a style that is drawn from distinct forms that are abstracted from nature. The Sydney Opera House can be rightfully attributed to contemporary architectures which integrate and mix various architectural features. Nevertheless, its unconventional shape, especially being an abstract design, and its giganticness qualify it as an example of great architecture in the current world.

9. The Brick House, Kerala, India

Architect: Srijit Srinivas Architects

Year Completed: 2019 The BRICKHAUS is located on a narrow and asymmetrical site in Trivandrum in Kerala, India. The structure’s layout addresses different requirements, including a combination of uniqueness and functionality, private expression, and public display, intending to provide customers with luxury and tranquility. Image Source: archdaily.com One can not but feel a sense of retrospective consideration when talking about BRICKHAUS. It has got a certain ethnic character highlighted by the alteration in hues and shadows produced with reference to the openings of the windows and the description and placement of the material library. The brick house design also aims to connect the interior and the exterior by incorporating vents and skylights to allow natural airflow and daylight. The ventilation channels also contribute to natural indoor cooling together with the disposition of ‘internal gardens’ with pools and all work in concert to generate this magical light.

10. The Crescent, India

Architect: Sanjay Puri

Year Completed: 2015 The Crescent was designed to accommodate the local real estate developer’s offices. Its location at the intersection of two highways is convenient for developers and customers. This location is also intended as a publicity landmark. Image Source: archdaily.com According to the designer, the covering material was chosen for its beautiful, naturally aging appearance, adding to the architectural monument form of the small building. Also, the angular shape is a protective mechanism against strong sunlight, resulting in extreme temperatures for most of the year. The curve-shaped wall forms a defensive barrier against the southern sun and creates room for several layered windows facing north

Materials Used in Contemporary Architecture

Image Source: ultraframes-conservatories.co.uk

1. Bricks

Bricks, like Lego blocks, can be combined to form a creative masterpiece through innovative thinking and exquisite craftsmanship.

2. Concrete

This compound can be molded into the desired shapes using appropriate frameworks to form slabs, beams, columns, and foundations.

3. Wood

When added to the building, this renewable contemporary design material provides a feeling of warmth and comfort compared to the function and aesthetics shared in the design.

4. Steel

Steel is flexible, making it an effective structural material for building parts such as cross-section beams, space frames, trusses, door and window frames, railings, handrails, and door handles.

5. Tiles

Tiles is a flexible building component made of several materials, including ceramic, stone, and glass, and they are also available in various colors and textures.

6. Glass

Glass is the most common façade element used in contemporary architecture to achieve transparency, light, visibility, and protection from weather changes.

7. Stone

Despite its volume and weight, natural stone is valued in the construction of contemporary homes and other structures for its wide range of colors, textures, and sizes. Featured Image Source: developmentone.net