MODERN ARCHITECTURE
HISTORY OF ART AND
ARCHITECTURE-V
REPORT
SUBMITTED TO: AR. HAMNA AHSAN
SUBMITTED BY: SAHER SAFDAR [20014795-006]
DATED: JANUARY 02, 2024
What Is Modern Architecture?
Modern architecture is a style of building that originated in the 1900s as a result of the dynamic and
evolving world. It was a departure from the conventional styles that had dominated for a long time.
It was characterized by its emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and the use of new materials and
technologies.
The International Style, which appeared in the 1920s and 1930s, is a key subcategory of modern
architecture. There are other modern architecture styles such as Expressionist, Constructivist, and
Mid-Century Modern, that developed from 1930 to 1970.
History Of Modern Architecture
In contrast to other architectural styles that have been existing for centuries, modern architecture is
a more recent development. Louis Sullivan, an architect who worked on structures for the 1893
Chicago World’s Fair, is credited for starting this idea.
Frank Lloyd Wright and Le Corbusier are the other two of the most well-known names in modern
architecture.
Prairie houses, which Wright was famous for, were built to blend in with their surroundings. Le
Corbusier’s brutalist style was distinguished by its use of huge geometric shapes and exposed
concrete. The two architects contributed to the development of this modern architecture movement.
Through their efforts, many fundamental characteristics of contemporary architecture were
established.
Over time, modern architecture has evolved to incorporate more sustainable and energy-efficient
materials and designs. Today, architects strive to create buildings that blend seamlessly into their
environment while maintaining modernism’s aesthetic values.
Types of Modern Architecture
There are several styles of modern architecture. From 1930 through 1970, there are categories like
Expressionist, Constructivist, and Mid-Century Modern, to name a few. Here are a few of the most
popular types of modern architecture.
Early Modern Architecture
Modern architecture's earliest examples included buildings that showed off their structural forms
and the materials used in building, whether that was metal framing, steel, or concrete. There was a
focus on finding the beauty in the technicalities of the architecture.
Mid-century Modern
By the mid- to late-1940s, modern architecture evolved towards a look that felt more human. Mid-
century modern architecture was still minimal and functional, but it introduced materials that felt
warm and organic, including wood, large swaths of glass to let natural light in and open floor plans.
Post-modern
A backlash to the minimalist, sleek styling of modern architecture began in the 1970s, post-modern
architecture echoed the pre-modern architecture styles which felt colorful, vibrant, ornate, and
decorative. Ornamentation was re-introduced, and its eclectic lines continue today.
Characteristics Of Modern Architecture
1. Focus On Innovation And Creativity
Modernist architects strive to create beautiful, functional
structures that are inspired by the needs of that time.It has
aspects such as open floor plans, large windows and sliding doors,
asymmetrical forms and curved shapes, and a mix of materials
used in the design.
With this focus on innovation and creativity, modern architecture
seeks to push boundaries regarding design and ideas.
In addition to pushing boundaries within architecture itself, modern architects also look at ways they
can use their designs to positively impact society by producing energy-efficient, sustainable, and
impactful buildings.
2. Open Floor Plans
Open floor plans are one of the defining characteristics of
modern architecture. They create a sense of space and
transparency not found in older, more traditional designs.
In a traditional floor plan, each room is separated from the next
by walls. This gives each room its own sense of identity and
privacy. But it also creates a sense of detachment and isolation
from the rest of the house.
Open floor plans do away with these walls instead of connecting all the spaces together. This creates
a more open, communal feel and allows for greater interaction between family members and guests.
It also allows for greater flexibility in how to use the space.
3. Use Of Industrial Materials
Modern architects often use industrial materials like metal,
concrete, and glass to create their buildings. These building
materials offer a wide range of possibilities for designing
functional and aesthetically pleasing buildings.
Steel, for example, is highly durable and can be used to create
large open spaces, while concrete is versatile and can be used for
both structural and decorative purposes.
Glass is also widely used in modern architecture, as it allows
natural light to flood buildings and creates a sense of transparency and openness.
These materials are often left unpainted or unfinished, giving the buildings a sleek, modern look.
4. Use Of Large Windows
Large windows have become a staple feature in modern
architecture, as they bring in natural light and allow for a
seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. They
also provide stunning views, making the interior of the building
feel more spacious and open.
Overall, the use of large windows in modern architecture is a
design trend with many benefits. The window style promotes
energy efficiency, brings in natural light, and creates a sense of openness and flow in the interior.
They also add a sense of elegance and sophistication to the building.
5. Minimalism In Design And Decor
In architecture, minimalism is characterized by reducing forms,
colors, and decorations to the essential elements, focusing on
functionality and simplicity.
This aesthetic is often associated with modern architecture and is
characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and the use of
industrial materials such as steel, concrete, and glass.
The use of minimalism in design and decor allows architects to
create a sense of spaciousness and airiness, making buildings appear more open and uncluttered.
This style is often used to create a sense of calm and serenity, making spaces feel larger and more
open.
6. Sustainable Design Elements
Modern architecture often incorporates sustainable design elements to reduce energy consumption,
improve air and water quality, and use environmentally friendly materials. Examples of sustainable
design elements in modern architecture include:
i. Making the most of natural light and heat from the sun can reduce the need for artificial lighting
and heating.
ii. Using energy-efficient windows and other systems such as solar panels, geothermal heating,
and green roofs can help reduce a building’s carbon footprint.
iii. Water conservation systems such as rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and low-flow
plumbing fixtures can be used to reduce the amount of water used by a building.
iv. Using sustainable building materials such as bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood can minimize
the environmental impact.
v. Green roofs and walls can help to improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and create a
more pleasant environment.
7. Emphasis On Functionality And Practicality
Modern architecture is defined by its emphasis on functionality and practicality. This approach to
design is characterized by the use of simple, clean lines, an absence of decorative elements, and a
focus on the efficient use of space.
Modern architects strive to create buildings that are easy to maintain and operate, with durable
materials and simple, efficient systems.
8. Use Of Technology
The use of technology also plays a significant role in modern
architecture, with architects utilizing computer-aided design and other
technology to optimize building design and construction.
This approach to design allows for greater precision and efficiency in
the building process and the ability to create complex and unique
architectural forms.
Conclusions
Modern architecture has had a significant impact on the building sector, from towering skyscrapers
to minimalist homes. It has also influenced the design of other fields, such as furniture, graphic
design, and art. Modern architecture reflects the spirit of innovation, experimentation, and
humanism that characterized the 20th century.
Example: GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM
The Guggenheim Museum is a famous example of modern architecture that showcases the
innovative and expressive vision of its architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Here are some aspects of the
museum that illustrate its relation to modern architecture:
Form and Function
The museum has a unique form that contrasts with
the rectangular buildings of New York City. It consists
of a cylindrical base that gradually widens as it
ascends, creating a spiral shape that resembles a snail
shell.
The museum’s form follows its function, as Wright
intended to create a continuous and fluid space for
displaying art. The museum has no separate floors,
but rather a single ramp that spirals up from the
ground level to the dome-shaped skylight. The visitors
can view the artworks along the ramp, which curves
slightly inward to create a sense of intimacy.
The museum’s form also reflects Wright’s organic architecture, which aims to harmonize with the
natural environment. The museum’s white exterior contrasts with the urban context, but also
evokes a sense of purity and lightness. The museum’s circular shape suggests movement and
dynamism, as well as a connection to the cosmic order.
Materials and Technology
The museum is made of reinforced concrete, which was a modern material at the time of its
construction. Concrete allowed Wright to create the complex and curved forms that he envisioned,
as well as to achieve structural stability and durability.
The museum also incorporates modern technology, such as electric lighting, air conditioning, and
elevators. Wright designed the lighting system to create a balance between natural and artificial
light, using both skylights and spotlights to illuminate the artworks. The air conditioning system was
designed to control the temperature and humidity of the museum, as well as to reduce noise and
dust. The elevators were installed to facilitate the movement of visitors and staff, as well as to
transport artworks and materials
Influence and Legacy
The museum is widely regarded as one of Wright’s masterpieces and one of the most iconic
buildings of the 20th century. It is also one of the most visited and influential museums in the world,
attracting millions of visitors and hosting various exhibitions and events.
The museum has inspired many other architects and artists, who have either admired or criticized its
design. Some examples of buildings that have been influenced by the museum are the Guggenheim
Museum Bilbao by Frank Gehry, the New Museum by SANAA, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi by Jean
Nouvel.
The museum has also been featured in many films, books, and artworks, such as The International by
Tom Tykwer, From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg, and
Guggenheim by Dan Flavin.
EMERGENCE OF CIAM
Introduction
CIAM stands for Congrès Internationaux d’Architecture Moderne, or International Congresses of
Modern Architecture. It was an organization of architects and urban planners that was founded in
1928 and lasted until 1959. CIAM aimed to promote the principles and practices of modern
architecture, especially in relation to social and economic issues
Origins and Goals
CIAM emerged from the efforts of a group of avant-garde architects, such as Le Corbusier, Walter
Gropius, and Theo van Doesburg, who wanted to create a platform for exchanging ideas and
influencing the development of architecture and urbanism in the 20th century. CIAM held 10
congresses in various European cities, each focusing on a different theme, such as housing, city
planning, leisure, and culture. CIAM also produced influential documents, such as the Athens Charter,
which outlined the basic principles of modern urbanism.
Challenges and Conflicts
CIAM was not a homogeneous or stable group, but rather a dynamic and diverse network of
architects with different backgrounds, perspectives, and agendas. CIAM faced many challenges and
conflicts, both internally and externally, as it tried to cope with the changing political, social, and
cultural context of the post-war period. CIAM also witnessed the emergence of a new generation of
architects, known as Team 10, who challenged and criticized the orthodoxies and dogmas of CIAM
and proposed a more humanistic and contextual approach to modern architecture. Team 10
eventually led to the dissolution of CIAM in 1959 and the formation of a new group that continued
the legacy of CIAM
Impact and Legacy
CIAM was a significant and influential movement in the history of modern architecture, as it shaped
the discourse and practice of architecture and urbanism in the 20th century. CIAM also contributed
to the cultural critique of modernism and the transition to postmodernism in architecture. CIAM’s
ideas and projects have inspired and provoked many architects and scholars, who have either
admired or contested its vision and impact.
