Modernism was a movement that predominantly took place in the early 20th century and gradually spread worldwide, affecting every aspect of life: art, writing, lifestyle, thought, technology, and, of course, architecture. Modernism had a huge effect on architectural practices. We will discuss everything you need to know to understand modern architecture in this article.

History of Modern Architecture

To understand how modern architecture came to be, we need to understand the socio-economic conditions of Europe in the 19th century. New technologies were being invented and used in cities, making them the main attraction for people seeking jobs in industries, railway companies, hospitals, offices, academies, and better facilities. This led to a mass movement of people to urban areas. Transportation development and job opportunities attracted large-scale migration. This huge population needed housing – housing and living environments that required buildings to be constructed quickly and cheaply. The architects of that time felt the need to break away from the old, heavily designed buildings with ornamentation and instead build structures that focused more on functional operation.

Characteristics of Modern Architecture

Construction Technology:

During the 19th and 20th centuries, industrial development caused mass production of various factory-made materials such as steel, glass, reinforced concrete, and cast iron. This gave architects the flexibility to explore different forms and structures. The previously used materials, such as brick, stone, and timber, could only be used in limited ways, whereas the newly produced materials were flexible and quickly produced in large numbers.

Functionalism:

The modern architectural style focused more on function than on aesthetics. The modern problem of mass population required easy circulation and easily operated functions. This developed the idea of “form follows function.” Whereas previous architects organized functions after generating form, in modern architecture practice architects discovered that form could be generated with regard to function. This would make the living quality of a building easier and better.

Minimalism:

The use of ornamentation with unnecessary elements and intricate curved molding had been famous for hundreds of years. Modern architects found these elements unnecessary and serving no important purpose. So, the use of ornamentation in built forms was eliminated from modern buildings, resulting in the practice of minimalism in buildings – simple, lightweight, plain structures.

Open Floor Plans:

Open floor plans entered the realm of modern architecture because they offer flexibility in space. Floor plans with free-flowing walls and zoning of functions, such as combined kitchen and dining areas or combined living and dining areas, help create easier circulation flow, improve communication among functions, allow for layout flexibility, and enable any open plan space to be used for multiple purposes.

Large Windows:

Large open horizontal windows are new to the world. The development of construction materials influenced the development of larger horizontal openings. Large windows ensure a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces that helps with ventilation, natural light, and visual connection.

Solving Practical Problems:

Modern architecture first emerged to solve real-world problems, such as housing for a huge population. The middle-class social level needed housing and facilities as much as health and education security. Modern architectural practice focused on the quick production of housing, focusing on functional success.

Modern Architects

Some architects played a crucial role in spreading the practice of modern architecture. These master architects devoted their lives to changing the world of architecture.

Le Corbusier:

Le Corbusier, one of the pioneers of modern architecture, developed five rules for modern architecture: Pilotis, Free design of ground floor plan, free design of façade, horizontal windows, and roof garden. His Villa Savoye is the perfect example of a modern house.

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe:

Another pioneer of modern architecture was the German-born Mies van der Rohe. He is the master of minimal architecture. His philosophy, “Less is More,” is an inspiration for minimal yet beautiful structures. He used modern materials such as industrial steel and plate glass to define interior spaces.

Frank Lloyd Wright:

He designed more than 1000 buildings during a career spanning 70 years. He has had a huge impact on contemporary architectural practices. He was one of the star architects of the 20th century who influenced architects worldwide.