All About Contemporary Architecture – Origins, Features, Pioneers and More

Contemporary is the term used for architecture of the 21st century. The word itself means belonging to or occurring in the present, modern time. Unlike some other architecture periods, contemporary architecture is not a movement, but a style reflecting the trends of the time a home is built. Despite this style lacking a representation of any particular age, past movements can inspire contemporary design. Along the same line, assorted elements from previous architectural styles often influence contemporary homes as well. In this article, you will uncover the significance of contemporary design, its origins and characteristics.  

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Contemporary architecture – what is it?

Contemporary is the term used for architecture of the 21st century. Oftentimes, types of architecture are classified into movements, which are linked to specific historical periods. However, contemporary architecture is not a movement or school of thought as it does not adhere to a particular style or set of standards. 

This type of architectural design includes a multitude of stylistic choices and features that reflect the values and opinions of the 21st century. Moreover, it actively aims to break away from the past, and incorporates changes and improvements to older architecture. Whether the architecture in question is a modern residential or has hospitality designs, contemporary architecture is not defined by any single style. Rather, it’s unified in its goal to be innovative and unconventional. Ultimately, contemporary building design changes the way we interact with the environment in which we work, play and live in. 

Origins 

As mentioned prior, contemporary architecture refers to the architectural structures of the 21st century, but it is generally considered to have originated in the late 20th century. After the second World War, international cooperation grew rapidly and had a notable impact on all forms of art around the world. Hence, this architectural style is marked by transcontinentalism and an endeavour to create structures that are integral to their environments and a sense of formlessness.  

With the advancement of technology, contemporary architects have access to innovative methods and materials and they aren’t restricted to creating linear forms. An example of this is their usage of 3D printing and BIM technology to create more precise, challenging and interesting forms. Furthermore, 3D renderings portray buildings in more realistic details before any construction has even began. 

All of these new advancements result in not only safer and more environmentally friendly buildings, but buildings that appear to defy logic and sometimes what is conventionally considered “good taste”. 

Features & characteristics 

Contemporary architecture is distinct for incorporating experimental designs, textures and minimalist aesthetics. Its features and characteristics can be found below: 

Natural and unconventional materials  

Contemporary architecture strongly focuses on nature and its exposure to outdoor environments. It is inventive and unexpected, hence featuring unconventional building materials like concrete, metal or exposed brick in a residential or domestic space. This minimalism can add warmth or coolness depending on the architects’ visions and how the structure is constructed. 

Furthermore, the outdoors is another essential aspect when designing a contemporary home, which creates a robust relationship with the interior. Since the two are connected, the boundaries between indoors and outdoors fade. Concrete, reclaimed wood, natural stone and various types of metal – ranging from stainless steel to wrought iron to aluminium – often mingle on the exterior and in the interior. It is not uncommon for architects to specify unusual materials such as paper and recycled waste products.

Open-floor plans

Open-floor plans are another crucial aspect of contemporary architecture. They create a sense of unity between spaces in a structure and allow more natural light to shine through. Furthermore, they give the appearance of a larger space and their flexibility grants one the opportunity to transform the space into anything. Contemporary homes usually feature large public spaces for living and entertaining, with fewer walls and doors. 

Sustainable energy-efficient design elements

Contemporary architecture is huge on sustainable designs and combining elements that conserve resources and reduce environmental impacts. This form of design practice aims to use materials and processes that minimise damage to our natural environment and conserve our already-low resources. 

Common sustainable practices and characteristics include passive solar layout, green roofing, and energy-efficient lighting. Solar energy efficiency can be enhanced via south-facing windows, thermal mass and shading decides. Green walls and roofs provide insulation, reduce stormwater runoff and improve indoor air quality. Key practices that reduce water consumption include low-flow fixtures and greywater systems. 

Aside from the HVAC systems mentioned above, green concrete is another fascinating material manufacturers use. Concrete itself is somewhat environment-friendly since it can be recycled, but green concrete is made from various different materials, often waste materials such as plastic or glass. Other eco-friendly materials in concrete include silica fume, wood ash, and fly ash. 

Usage of technology 

Another important aspect of contemporary architecture is its usage of technology. This style includes smart home features, building management, accessibility and safety systems. Homeowners can use smartphones to control smart home lighting, heating and surveillance – all thanks to today’s society and the rise of technology. Modern structures also have accessibility technologies, such as automatic doors, elevators, voice-activated assistants and tactile pavement. Furthermore, security cameras, alarm systems and fire protection systems are all standard in modern contemporary homes. 

Integration of indoor and outdoor spaces 

Lastly, sustainable design elements also offer us a much deeper connection to nature and the outdoors. Large glass walls, overhanging roofs, clerestory windows and skylights all help to create a sense of unity between structures and their environments. The light and openness also gives the impression of being more connected with nature. 

Architects also integrate indoor and outdoor spaces in homes with patios, decks and balconies. Sliding doors and folding glass walls help connect with the main living areas. In skyscraper buildings, contemporary architecture connects to outdoor spaces at rooftop gardens, terraces and balconies. These spaces are perfect for entertainment purposes and offer expansive views of the surrounding city. 

To read more on the integration of nature in architectural design, check out my biophilia article. 

Famous pioneers of contemporary architecture

Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, Frank Lloyd Wright, Tadao Ando and Louis Kahn are five of the most notable contemporary architects to date. 

1. Frank Gehry 

Known for his avant-garde designs, Gehry’s use of unconventional materials and sculptural forms has left an indelible mark on contemporary architecture. His iconic works include the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, USA.

2. Zaha Hadid 

Zaha Hadid is a groundbreaking architect who pushed the limits of fluidity and dynamic design. Hadid’s work is characterised by sweeping curves and innovative usage of materials. Her notable projects include the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku, Azerbaijan, and the MAXXI Museum in Rome, Italy.

3. Frank Lloyd Wright

Known for his organic architecture that harmonises buildings with their inhabitants and environment, Wright’s use of unconventional materials and the boldness of his inventions left an indelible mark on contemporary architecture. His iconic works include the Falling Tower in Pennsylvania, USA and the Robie House situated in Chicago. 

4. Tadao Ando 

Ando is a Japanese autodidact architect who is celebrated for his minimalist approach, use of concrete and integration of natural elements. He is the winner of the 1995 Pritzker Prize and was categorised by architectural historian Francesco Dal Co as “critical regionalism”. Notable works include the Church of the Light in Osaka, Japan, and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth in Texas, USA.

5. Louis Kahn 

The last architect on our list is Louis Kahn, a prominent American architect known for his profound impact on contemporary architecture. His innovative ideas, design philosophy, and approach to space and light have left a lasting legacy in the field. Some of Kahn’s notable works include the Salk Institute in La Jolla, in California, USA and the National Assembly Building in Dhaka, Bangladesh. 

Landmark examples of contemporary architecture 

Some of the world’s most notable and well-appreciated contemporary buildings range from the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain to the Leeza SOHO in Beijing, China. Below are just a few of many aspiring examples of landmark contemporary architecture. 

1. The Guggenheim Museum – Bilbao, Spain 

Designed by Frank Gehry, this titanium-clad museum is renowned for its unconventional and sculptural design. Its dynamic forms have revitalised the city and become a global architectural landmark.

2. The Shard – London, UK 

Designed by Renzo Piano, The Shard is a striking glass-clad skyscraper that stands as the tallest building in the United Kingdom. Its distinctive pyramidal shape and reflective exterior have become synonymous with London’s modern skyline.

3. The Leeza SOHO – Beijing, China 

Leeza SOHO is a unique skyscraper in Beijing with a twisting, light-filled atrium spiralling up its dual towers. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, it’s an innovative example of contemporary architecture, focusing on both striking aesthetics and energy efficiency.

4. Burj Khalifa – Dubai, UAE

Designed by Adrian Smith from the architectural firm SOM, the Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, reaching a height of over 828 metres. Its sleek design and innovative structural systems have made it an iconic symbol of modern architecture.

5. The Louvre Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi, UAE

Designed by Jean Nouvel, this museum’s iconic dome structure creates a unique play of light and shadow. The museum is a fusion of contemporary design and traditional influences.

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Bibliography

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• BluEntCAD. “Contemporary Architecture: History and Common Features.” Bluent , 27 Oct. 2021, www.bluentcad.com/blog/contemporary-architecture-features/#:~:text=While%20there%20is%20debate%20a.
• “The Creative Process of the Four Pioneers of Modern Architecture.” ArchDaily, 12 Jan. 2021, www.archdaily.com/925464/the-creative-process-of-the-four-pioneers-of-modern-architecture#:~:text=Le%20 Corbusier%2C%20 Miles%20 van%20der.
• “What Is Contemporary Architecture? | Mansion Global.” Www.mansion global.com, 12 June 2023, www.mansionglobal.com/library/contemporary-architecture#:~:text=Contemporary%20is%20the%20 term%20 used.