As we mentioned in the previous post in the “Custom Home Builders in Austin Have Style” Series, though the terms ‘modern’ and ‘contemporary’ are commonly used synonymously in everyday speak, they are not synonyms. Contemporary refers to the building styles of today, whereas modern refers to architectural styles beginning in the mid-20th century. The shift from modern to contemporary came with a feeling that modern style homes were cold and unfriendly. Postmodernism and deconstructivism contributed to the transition from modern to contemporary.
The modern influence in contemporary remains through the convergence of indoor and outdoor living spaces, and today’s architects try to make a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living areas. Architects design contemporary homes to bring the homeowner and nature together. This contributes to the rise in outdoor living areas, courtyards, and gardens being integrated into the design of the home verses relying heavily on the traditional back yard. Not only in a physical living sense are architects designing with nature in mind; they are also more keen on designing in environmentally sound ways by utilizing more natural light, and using green methods of construction, making the home much more energy efficient than ever before. Designing with nature in mind sets a theme of harmony and relaxation within the home.
Take this Sterling Custom Homes contemporary design for example. This design brings a new meaning to “open floor plan.” Even before you enter the home, you can’t help but notice the large panes of glass that overlook the front courtyard. When you enter the home, you are greeted by a large back wall made completely of glass that overlooks the swimming pool and provides an incredible view of Lake Travis. The outdoor living area is just as expansive as the kitchen, dining room, and great room. As you view the floor plan, you can see that the roof extends to cover half of the pool. You’ll also notice the wet bar that your guests can swim up to without having to leave their oasis. The master suite is complete with a meditation garden. As your guests settle into their casita, they’ll notice a courtyard of their own where they can relax outside, too.
If contemporary seems to fit your lifestyle, you might consider this floor plan we have already created.
This completes our “Custom Home Builders in Austin Have Style” series. We hope you enjoyed learning a little about the evolution of the architecture of homes and how those styles are still implemented today through the custom homes in Austin we build.