Contemporary Architect

Contemporary architecture is a post-modern interpretation of the modernist approach. It is a rejection of modernist thought and a return to traditional and historical precedents. The style includes references to traditional architecture, but redefined and reinterpreted. Appearing since the late 1970s, this style is often referred to as a revival of period styles for homes and an unending variety of forms and sleek for commercial buildings. Since historical features tend to be widely exaggerated, some criticize that contemporary architecture does not attempt to replicate historic styles, but rather makes fun of them, using a wide variety of historic forms, simplifying and mixing them into a jumble of a building. Others like the balance between the sleek, technical look of modern architecture and the wide variety of historic forms.

Characteristics of Contemporary Style

Contemporary architecture is identified with these features:

• Stark simplicity with long lines and low, horizontal forms
• Vivid colors and strong contrasts
• Man-made materials and sophisticated manufacturing techniques
• Plastics and metals are used extensively, along with large expanses of glass window-walls.
• Bright solids are incorporated to soften hard edges.
• Large-scaled accessories, such as sculptures made of a variety of materials, are used minimally.
• Very little ornamentation
• Eye-catching features such as asymmetrical design, unusual angles, flat roofs with varied or multi-level rooflines and boldly articulated windows.

Buildings in Contemporary Style

The following structures were built using contemporary architectural techniques.

1. Flagstaff, Arizona. County administration building.
2. Indianapolis, Indiana. College Life Insurance Company of America building
3. Phoenix, Arizona. Phoenix Children's Hospital.
4. Los Angeles, California. Disney Hall.
5. Los Angeles, California. Library Tower.

Find Your Own Contemporary Architect

If you are looking for a highly talanted contemporary architect, please fill out the form to the right. You will be connected with a live contemporary architect within 24 hours.