What is contemporary architecture?
Contemporary architecture refers to the current style of architecture of the twenty-first century. Contemporary architecture deviates from late-20th-century contemporary architecture by including eco-friendly characteristics and embracing all forms of creativity. These days, contemporary architects work with different styles, from traditional and post-modern to high-tech architecture. These styles and new approaches influence the use of advanced technology and modern building materials. One such technique that is used these days is tube structure, which allows us to design taller, lighter, stronger, and more high-tech buildings as compared to previous generations. We use natural and ecological materials like stone, wood, and lime. With modern design software and technologies, we can now design buildings with more precision and speed. Whole three-dimensional models can be prepared by computer software, and if the design requires changes, we can make them with precision and speed.
Contemporary buildings and styles are very great and have amazing features like concrete structures wrapped in glass, very asymmetrical facades, aluminum screens, cantilevered sections, and others. The contemporary architectural design makes us think beyond our limits. That’s why we are creating modern marvels these days.
Example
The Burj Khalifa, which is in Dubai, is the tallest building in the world with a total height of 828m, and the second tallest building is Shanghai Tower, which is situated in China, but this is not the end of this list. Today, Saudi Arabia is constructing the world’s tallest building with a total height of 1,000 m. The name of the building is Jeddah Tower. The construction of this building will end in the coming year, and we will reach slightly closer to the sky. This type of architecture takes us way ahead in this field.
Isometric View of
Sydney Opera House, Australia
History of Contemporary Architecture
Contemporary architecture isn’t just defined by a single architectural style, but it is born from innovation and imagination rather than copying older styles and methods. Breaking the past and using modern materialism and technology made contemporary architecture. The era of contemporary architecture is generally thought to have begun after the modern period, nearly the first half of the 20th century.
Contemporary architects and designers are no longer limited to linear building forms; they have begun to experiment with curves, forms, materials, and construction methods. Modern technologies like computers, software-generated curved designs, laser cutting technology, and 3D printing create precision, challenges, and unpredictable forms. Designing buildings with any form and shape looks easy and interesting.
Computer-rendered designs were giving a glimpse of the future. With the use of recycled and natural materials and an emphasis on eco-conscious water and temperature management building systems that are becoming more fluidly integrated and addressed, sustainability is an essential characteristic of the current architecture.
Characteristics of Contemporary Architecture
- This type of architecture has the expressiveness of form and design.
- The use of different material combinations to highlight contrast or uniformity.
- rounded and curved lines and shapes
- Asymmetric and shape-free
- Open floor plans, green roofs, and living walls
- Unconventional volumes
- Numerous, large windows
- Integration into the surrounding landscape
- Smart home technology integration
- Integrated, customizable LED lighting
