Modern architecture stands out with its open floor plans, minimal ornamentation, clear lines, and subtle colours. Contemporary architecture, on the other hand, is identified by its simple plan, minimal use of colour, and design. Potato, potahto, right? Maybe not.

Modern and contemporary architecture look so similar that many people mistake them for synonyms. After all, they have a lot in common. But that’s not true because one is an art movement influenced by a revolution, while the other is just another word for ‘trending’.

Let’s dive deeper into the debate of modernism vs contemporary architecture.

Context:

When and where did modernism come from?

The early 19th century witnessed a transformation in artistic expression across Western nations. Artists and architects rejected exaggerated elements and embraced a more understated and refined aesthetic. Modernism emerged in Europe, particularly in Holland, Austria, Germany, and France. The term “modern architecture” was first coined by Architect Otto Wagner in his speech at Vienna’s Academy of Fine Arts, stating, “New human tasks and views called for a change or reconstitution of existing forms,” which advocated for change and uniqueness in design within a rapidly changing world.

One of the most influential catalysts of modernism was the Bauhaus school in Germany, founded by Walter Gropius in 1919. It aimed to rid architecture of ornamentation and practice rational design. Architects like Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who was the director of the school, taught and developed unique ideas. His iconic project, the Barcelona Pavilion for the 1929 International Exposition in Barcelona, Spain, demonstrated the modernist movement. It’s also where he developed his mantra “Less is more”.

Another notable figure was Louis Sullivan, an influential Chicago School architect and mentor to Frank Lloyd Wright, who coined the term “form follows function” in 1893, which ultimately became an important principle for the modernist movement. Meanwhile, in Europe, Le Corbusier emerged as an icon of modernist architecture with his famous work Villa Savoye. Inspired by cubism, he promoted clean geometric forms and open plans. Later, Modernism was also called ‘International style’ due to its representation of architecture irrespective of cultural context.

The Emergence of Contemporary Architecture

Contemporary is the term used for architecture of the 21st century. It isn’t a movement, but a style reflecting current trends.

The term “contemporary architecture” emerged right after the modernist movements, which explains why most iconic buildings fall under both contemporary and modernist architecture. Contemporary architecture characteristics include specific features rather than a uniform style. It fuses many architectural styles and stands for designs that are unconventional, innovative, incorporate new technology, and are aligned with sustainable practices.

Well-known architects dominating current architectural trends include Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, Tadao Ando, and Kengo Kuma, who are known for their unconventional, modern, and unique approaches to architecture. Among their well-known projects are the V&A Dundee Museum, the Guggenheim Museum, the church of Light, and the Heydar Aliyev Centre.

Since Contemporary architecture is the ?architecture of today?, it is heavily influenced by rapid technological progress and growing environmental awareness. The integration of smart home systems, energy-efficient designs, and sustainable materials has become increasingly common. Architects now often prioritize LEED certification and incorporate features like green roofs, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting systems

The Differences Between Modern and Contemporary Architecture

Modernist architecture is structured and balanced, whereas contemporary architecture offers more room for creativity. Aside from design, the materials used also differ, with modern architecture built using traditional materials, while contemporary architecture explores innovative, eco-friendly, and recycled materials. While both can be eco-friendly, contemporary design often places a stronger emphasis on sustainable practices. Modern interiors typically maintain a consistent style with warm, neutral tones. Contemporary interiors are more eclectic, often mixing styles and incorporating cooler materials like glass and metal.

An example of modernist architectural features would exhibit a complete absence of ornamentation, asymmetric forms, natural materials, and a sense of connection with nature.

Contemporary architecture, in contrast, features a blend of various styles, curves and angular forms, asymmetric shapes, open plans, integration of smart technologies, and a focus on sustainability.

Modern and contemporary architecture today

In the evolution of architectural styles, modern architecture was a response to societal, technological, and cultural changes. In addition to providing a roadmap for future architects with its minimal and sleek design, it also embraced trending industrial materials such as steel, reinforced concrete, and glass, which allowed for structural innovation and flexibility. These materials enabled greater spans without the need for extra support walls or columns while offering increased strength. When urbanization hit, the development of high-rise buildings became possible due to technological advancements. This helped architects address the rising issues of population growth and efficient planning. Modern architecture has had a profound impact on the world of architecture, influencing contemporary architects to draw inspiration from it.

Today, contemporary architecture has come a long way with its human-centric and sustainable design. It not only caters to people’s needs but also creates harmony with nature, further reducing the need for superficial architecture. Additionally, advancements in 3D printing and prefabrication technologies are opening up new possibilities. Although not all contemporary architecture succeeds in creating harmonious and conscious design, it has a profound influence on creating better everyday spaces.

Sources

• https://illustrarch.com/articles/13439-modern-architecture-vs-contemporary-architecture.html
• https://www.houzz.in/magazine/whats-the-difference-between-modern-and-contemporary-stsetivw-vs~89929339
• https://medium.com/@saeepadhyesawant/architecture-as-a-mirror-how-contemporary-styles-reflect-peoples-beliefs-9bdcb5f2f9d9
• https://www.thespruce.com/what-is-contemporary-architecture-4769079#toc-history-of-contemporary-architecture
• https://www.mansionglobal.com/library/contemporary-architecture