Audrey
If you have paid attention to the world of architecture at all in the last decade or so, you have undoubtedly noticed some of the new trends in the field. Buildings are starting to look different than they used to–more sleek, geometric, and often with unusual shapes. This is what is known as contemporary architecture.
Contemporary Architecture Explained
The defining characteristic of contemporary architecture is the blending and sharing of features between modern styles. It is an eclectic mix of the latest trends in design, materials, and construction methods. This type of architecture can be seen all over the world, but some of the most famous examples are the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, the Hearst Tower in New York City, and The Shard in London. Each of these buildings is unique in its own way, but they all share some similar features that make them contemporary.
Features of Contemporary Architecture
While each building is unique, there are some features that are common to many contemporary structures. Here are just a few hallmarks of contemporary architecture:
Geometric shapes and clean lines
Contemporary architecture often features sleek, geometric shapes and clean lines. This gives buildings an air of modernity and helps them to stand out against traditional architecture. This form of art also takes advantage of curved lines and rounded spaces in order to create a more fluid and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Minimalism
In order to create a modern look, contemporary architects often use minimalistic design principles. This means that they keep the number of features and decorations on a building to a minimum in order to focus attention on the lines and shapes of the structure.
Natural or LED lighting
Many contemporary buildings make use of natural or LED lighting to create an inviting and open atmosphere. This type of lighting is often used in conjunction with large windows and skylights to allow for plenty of sunlight inside.
Sustainability
Contemporary architecture is often designed with sustainability in mind. Many buildings are made from materials that can be recycled or reused, and they often feature energy-efficient designs that help to reduce the amount of pollution they produce.
Unique building and construction materials
Contemporary architects often make use of unique building and construction materials to create one-of-a-kind structures. Some common examples include metal, glass, wood, and concrete. Furthermore, since there have been so many advancements in reinforced concrete, architects now have more freedom than ever to experiment with new shapes and designs.
Nature-oriented designs
In previous decades, architects tended to separate buildings and nature. A perfect example of this is how windows used to be placed in the middle of rooms in order to create a view of the outside. Now, it is common for large windows to be placed throughout, letting in natural light and passive solar heating in addition to views of the surrounding environment. Additionally, contemporary architects often use nature-inspired designs in their buildings, such as using plants or water features. This is something that takes on many variations in the Pacific Northwest where the abundance of natural resources is appreciated.
So what is contemporary architecture? It can be best described as a mix of the latest movements in configuration, materials, and construction techniques. This type of architecture can be seen all over the world, but it is particularly well-suited to populous areas where land and resources are at a premium. As the world becomes increasingly urbanized, contemporary architecture will continue to play an important role in the design of our built environment.
6 Reasons Why Every Architect Should Have House Floor Plans
Creating floor plans before construction is a vital step that cannot be skipped! They capture a bird’s eye view of any property and provide clients with a visual walk-through of the property.
As technology advanced, even 3D floor plans started coming into the picture. Read on to learn more about the types of plans and their importance.
Types of House Floor Plans
There are two types of floor plans: 2D floor plans and 3D floor plans. These plans are an accurate representation of how a property is going to look once it is fully constructed. Let’s explore what the two different types of floor plans have to offer:
1. 2D House Floor Plan
The 2D floor plans are elements that add visual representation to the property in the making. This plan is a space layout that showcases rooms and walls without depth and height, like a blueprint, sketch, or computerized drawing.
Earlier, there were only black and white 2D floor plans available. Now, you can even find color 2D house plans or floor plans with furniture.
2. 3D House Floor Plan
On the other hand, a 3D floor plan is a diagram of the house that shows the entire layout of the property in 3D. It contains precise markings, depth and perspective.
This type of house floor plan is usually furnished with attributes like floorings, paint color, walls, cabinets, tiles, and other interior elements. It’s easier for home buyers to understand the space as it contains more details.
What is the Importance of House Floor Plans?
A floor plan is an aerial view of the property. It shows people exactly what a space would look like once constructed. These drawings include an accurate 3D design of installations, layout, walls, furniture, garden space, and more. Hence, it provides people with ample benefits.
Let’s explore all the reasons why house floor plans are essential to be included in your home projects:
1. Turns Your Ideas into Illustrations
It is the duty of a well-designed floor plan to translate your ideas into illustrations and showcase to the homebuyer what you have dreamt of. A house floor plan is a key to drawing more clients to your project with the help of stunning visuals and accurate measurements.
2. Acts as a Blueprint for Construction
A well-constructed blueprint is needed to regulate the beginning of home construction. Before the home construction begins, it is necessary to showcase a blueprint to the relevant authorities. In order to get approval, a floor plan provides a blueprint that you can submit to the authorities since it is a projection of what the project will look like after completion.
3. Helps Selecting the Right Materials
An architect can easily track the materials needed for project completion with the help of house floor plans. Pre-ordering materials like cabinets or tiles are necessary so that they are available during installation. And if you have a house floor plan to show the contractor, you get a clear idea of what materials need to be ordered.
4. Allows Picking the Correct Furniture
Floor plans have a detailed list of space measurements in the house. These measurements act as a guide in picking the right furniture that goes well with the space and the idea in your head.
5. Assists in Allotting Budget
With a well-designed floor plan, you get an idea of how much building material is required. You can calculate what furniture, appliances, or finishing will be required. This makes it easier to allot a budget to the contractors and workers and helps you stay within it.
6. Manages to Sell Homes Faster
Apart from architects, even real estate agents can greatly benefit from 2D and 3D floor plans! The ultimate goal for every house is to be sold, and house floor plans can be used for that. Since they contain exact dimensions and accurate details of every furnishing, it gets easier for buyers to visualize their future home. It’s attractive enough to catch their eye and undoubtedly helpful!
With house plans, you get to see the bigger picture, set a budget and try to stay within it. Moreover, with these plans, you can conveniently attract the attention of homebuyers. Visualizing the result gets easier, communicating your needs with the contractor or worker becomes less complicated as the visual communication grows, and you will be able to meet the expectations you have set for the project!
