Interior vs. Exterior
Modern Interior and Exterior Residential Architecture
Modern residential architecture basically follows form and functionality. Simplistic is the choice rather than embellishment in design. Shapes and space are experimented with to create unique structures. Colors used are simple flat design varying from stark whites to bold reds. Interesting use of the textures and materials is focused on rather than embellishments.
Internationalism style was evident from the 1920′s through the 1930′s. The structures were devoid of ornamental embellishments. The residential architecture followed function rather than form and focus was on the materials used. The architects of this style incorporated glass, steel and concrete into their designs. The Weissenhof Estate in Germany is an example of this era and was showcased to exhibit the style of internationalism. The Lovell House completed in 1929 is another fine example of the International Style. This style was replaced with post modernism. There was criticism based on the stark and sterile feel of the style. Commercial buildings tend to follow this style more broadly than residential.
Brutalism styles were introduced in 1960-1975. This architectural style called for exposed beams, external glass and steel with interiors of open floor and flowing spaces. Le Corbusier was the architect in Europe who began the movement. His style was uplifted by Peter and Allison Simpson. They tried to hold on to this style while public opinion was not in favor of the cold austere feel of this design. The Paulo Mendes da Rocha Residence in São Paulo, Brazil is an example of brutalism. It is a prefabricated home with bulky shaped exterior balancing on pillars.
Interior Modern architecture is usually designed with sleek lines, white flowing spaces and big areas given to glass windows. Lots of exposed metal lends a sterile look to the interior. Simplistically designed furniture is often the design to carry out this clean decor. The residence actually gives off a feeling of light and airy.
This contrasts from most of the modernistic exterior design. The buildings appear heavy, chunky, and over exaggerated in their structure of concrete shapes and pillars. Even with the use of glass and steel some are like big puzzles that do not always appear to be put together.
In the styles of international and brutalism you will also find examples of formalism, deconstructionism and structionalism. Desert modernism is also found regionally with fine examples of modernism. This style also included outdoor space in it’s overall and modernistic design. The Kaufman house in Palm Springs California displays the values of modernism. The design works well with the landscape creating a more popular form of modernism design.
Minimalism, another form of modernism defined in the Mexican architect Luis Barragan’s home. It’s evidence of play with light and lines is one of the concepts of minimalism. Buildings following this form are structured with the necessary elements only. They are built with large open spaces and few walls. The design incorporates the outside negative spaces into the design idea. Basically the themes of function, simplicity and shape cover every aspect of modernism architecture.