When you’re building a custom home, remodel, or accessory dwelling, your designer will have a lot of questions for you. One of those questions will be “What architectural styles do you like?”

Many of our clients prefer a modern design for their project to reflect the contemporary lifestyles we live and new technologies we use for constructing our homes. They don’t necessarily mean they want a house like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, but rather they mean they like clean lines, natural lighting, and open spaces. They see the value in environmentally friendly systems and sustainable materials. They appreciate a healthy balance of elegance and efficiency.

Today’s modern homes may have their roots in the designs of the mid-20th century, but they’re geared toward 21st-century tastes and lifestyles, and the materials and technology that has transformed the way we design and build housing.

Modern floorplans

A modern home needs a layout that provides enough space for the occupants to live comfortably. That doesn’t necessarily mean you have to have a 5,000 square feet sprawling house; instead it can mean well-designed floorplans that make good use of the space available. A good designer can make even a small home feel open and spacious. Efficient floor plans and open concept living can improve the way you live in a home and can make a smaller house a much better place to live than a large sprawling one. For instance, find a way to not need hallways removes square footage that doesn’t actually make your home better. Built-in storage can reduce area needed to hide stuff, and rooms that open to the outdoors or have large windows with views can actually feel larger than they are.

Modern lighting

Natural lighting is key in today’s modern homes and increases happiness and health of the occupants. Large windows with minimal hardware make both the interior and the exterior of a home feel fresh. Sky lights, solar tubes, and clerestory windows can bring even more light into the home and make the interior spaces bright and airy.

Of course, artificial lighting is always necessary, but it’s best if it doesn’t feel artificial. Your designer can help you find the lighting system that will keep your home comfortable during the day and at night. It is also important to zone your lighting in a way that it can iluminate the areas you need and yet provide the right level of light for the task at hand. Cleaning the kitchen or reading a book in the living room require different levels and tone of light. These decisions are an important part of the design process and help make your home an enjoyable place to live.

Modern materials

Natural wood, concrete, stone, metal, and glass have long been staples of modern design. These materials give the home a clean, natural feel and combine well with sleek lines and interesting textures. We also stress accentuating the natural beauty, color, and texture of materials. Rather than rely on paint or artificial colors, let’s let the beauty of natural wood bring warmth and texture into a space. Materials should be celebrated for what they are the inherent beauty the have.

Modern values

Today’s modern homes take it a step further and use sustainable materials such as wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and recycled composites. Landscape designers can design for the local climate, using native vegetation and xeriscaping to reduce the need for irrigation.

Sustainable systems are also in high demand. Energy-efficient appliances, insulation, windows, and climate control can significantly reduce a home’s electricity usage. Solar panels and other sustainable energy sources can make the home self-sufficient, helping the environment and saving the homeowner money.

Minimalism is another 21st-century value that’s frequently incorporated in modern homes. While a homeowner may or may not live a truly minimalist life, most people appreciate clean, simple design. Bright areas without too many complications can be energizing.

Modern individuality

Of course, a home must be tailored to the individual homeowner. Throughout its long history, modern designers have always included artistic expression in their work.

Whether you’re building a six-bedroom house or a one-bedroom ADU, your designer should include elements that reflect your tastes. A burst of color, some retro décor, or a special doorway can go a long way in making your home uniquely yours.

Your modern home

Home design is as much an art as it is a science. When planning your new home, remodel, or ADU, be sure to hire a designer who will create a home that suits your needs and your style. When you schedule your free call with New Avenue, we’ll answer your questions and connect you with the design–build team that’s perfect for your project.

Just tell us what you want. We’ll tell you how much it will cost, how long it will take, and how to make it happen.

Modern home design: What does it mean in the 21st century?