What defines a contemporary property?

Modern, contemporary architecture stands out from the traditional design and aesthetics. Contemporary architects design homes that surpass standard ideas and strive to pursue projects that combine layout, location and function. Although it is difficult to give an exact definition the following should give a better idea.

Simplicity in design and form
Modern homes are usually free of clutter and unnecessary elements, only features that are required are included in the design. Properties are often stripped down to emphasize the architectural design of the home, the attention will go more to the space itself and less on decor or details that are not relevant to the overall design. Many owners of contemporary properties believe strongly in the principle of less is more, just clarity, functionality and simplicity. As always there are varying degrees of applying these principles and some houses will be designed to the most strict sense of minimalism and in others where the owner will incorporate his own personal style.

Nothing to hide
Instead of trying to cover up the modern style wants the inner-workings to be visible. The use of beautiful materials can be showcased and shown in their natural form. No need to hide or alter to look like something else. Structural elements such as beams and open floor plans are revealed to show the structure and supports.

Linear
Lines are a favorite item in many modern designs, usually there are strong, eye-catching linear elements and statement making horizontal and vertical features. Think of elements such as fireplaces, beams, posts, cutouts, windows, staircases and roof lines. These all ad in creating a linear-inspired space. Although the lines in contemporary, modern properties tend to be straight and angled instead of curved, lately organic lines are making a come back in modern design.

Bold roof lines
Many contemporary properties make use of multiple rooflines on different levels instead of the traditional triangular roofs. With multiple roof lines on different levels it shows the complexity of the design and the uncommon silhouette of the building.

Windows
Contemporary homes use often floor to ceiling windows and sliding doors, this way everything gets more connected. This opposed to more traditional homes that use windows to bring in natural light.

Open floor plans
Most contemporary properties have an open plan living/dining/kitchen area, often with a fireplace as a central point. Prominent features of contemporary properties usually include open interior floor plans with fewer walls. This opposed to older homes with split-level floors and walls to divide the rooms.

Outdoors
Many rooms have access to a large patio or terrace, blurring the division between indoors and outdoors. Modern homes almost always incorporate the unique features of the plot it is built on within the home’s design. Also the use of large floor to ceiling glass walls the outdoor areas become part of the indoor.

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