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homes texas plans front porch rancher craftsman ranch homes mid century sq ft house plans farmhouse

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Fernando

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Kobi

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For many people, the meaning of the word "contemporary" is hard to pin down because it's always evolving to fit a modern context. The same can be said for contemporary architecture. However, we're here to put a face and a definition to the contemporary home once and for all. Keep reading to learn how to identify this style of architecture, as well as what sets it apart from the crowd.

What is a contemporary home?

Put simply, contemporary homes reflect the architecture of today. While you may think that definition makes it synonymous with modern architecture, that's actually a common misconception. Modern architecture refers to a style that was popularized from the 1920s to 1950s, one that embraced clean lines and stark minimalism. Contemporary architecture goes beyond that to define the ever-evolving architectural styles of the 21st century.

Most contemporary homes do have a modern flair to them, with design tweaks from postmodernism and deconstructivism, as well. For the first time, we also see homes where the building materials are just as important as the final product. With contemporary homes, we see a huge emphasis on natural and sustainable building materials.
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What makes these homes so popular?

Contemporary homes are popular because they've broken the mold when it comes to changing architectural styles. Traditionally, the dominant architectural style of the time will be the complete opposite of the one that came before it. For example, the simplicity of Craftsman homes is in direct opposition to the over-opulence of the Victorian era that came before it.

However, the same cannot be said for contemporary architecture. In fact, this style borrows a lot from modern design, its predecessor. It borrowed what worked, as you can see from the emphasis on clean, simple lines and a connection to the outdoors, and fixed what didn't. Contemporary homes are often much warmer in design than modern versions.

This ability to pick and choose characteristics led to a never-before-seen emphasis on individuality. Homeowners were free to design their homes in a way that truly worked for them, architectural conventions aside. It also may be why contemporary design seems to be sticking around for the long haul. In general, contemporary homes try to bring the interior and exterior together.

Defining features of a contemporary home

Though contemporary design does hold a strong emphasis on individuality, there are a few defining characteristics that tie this style of home together.

Exterior:

An irregular, asymmetrical façade

Strong emphasis on geometric shapes

Large windows

Clerestory windows

Use of recycled building materials

Mixed materials on the exterior (e.g. wood and stone)

Interior:

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What Classifies A House Style: What Makes A Contemporary Home?

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For many people, the meaning of the word "contemporary" is hard to pin down because it's always evolving to fit a modern context. The same can be said for contemporary architecture. However, we're here to put a face and a definition to the contemporary home once and for all.

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Fernando

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Kobi

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Modern architecture was a distinctive style that arose in response to the changes that came with a new, modern era. On the other hand, contemporary architecture is harder to pinpoint because it continues to change. Contemporary designs follow trends. So, although contemporary architecture first emerged in the 1970s, the style has continued to evolve with the times, making earlier contemporary homes appear more outdated than recent examples.

However, most contemporary homes continue to showcase certain elements of modern architecture. They have open layouts that allow residents to move seamlessly between the kitchen, dining room and living room. They have large windows that grandly display the home's surrounding environment and allow the rooms to bathe in natural light. Their facades and interior designs also highlight geometric lines.

Yet, the lines of contemporary homes have more movement. Instead of the straight, angular lines of the modernists, contemporary architects, like Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, I.M. Pei and Norman Foster, use free-form lines that are curved and expressive.

Although these designs are most closely connected to the modern style, they don't strictly adhere to it. They often incorporate different aspects of a variety of styles that came before them, which further explains why they can be so challenging to identify.

Although contemporary interior design may contain a similar range in styles, minimalism remains paramount. "A contemporary home has a less is more approach," says Pamela Durkin, interior designer and owner of Pamela Durkin Designs.

"Each piece or element has a reason for being there; it's not just to fill space. I think these elements tend to have more importance because they have to. There is more focus on them, and they need to stand out and be interesting on their own merits."

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Your Architecture Style: Contemporary Or Modern Homes?

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Modern architecture was a distinctive style that arose in response to the changes that came with a new, modern era. On the other hand, contemporary architecture is harder to pinpoint because it continues to change. Contemporary designs follow trends.

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homes texas plans front porch rancher craftsman ranch homes mid century sq ft house plans farmhouse

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interior modern architectural digest garage contemporary architecture interior design crestwood living room decor sq ft

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Fernando

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All plans are drawn at ¼" scale or larger and include :

Foundation Plan: Drawn to 1/4" scale, this page shows all necessary notations and dimensions including support columns, walls and excavated and unexcavated areas.

Exterior Elevations: A blueprint picture of all four sides showing exterior materials and measurements.

Floor Plan(s): Detailed plans, drawn to 1/4" scale for each level showing room dimensions, wall partitions, windows, etc. as well as the location of electrical outlets and switches.

Cross Section: A vertical cutaway view of the house from roof to foundation showing details of framing, construction, flooring and roofing.

Interior Elevations: Detailed drawings of kitchen cabinet elevations and other elements as required.

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Contemporary Style House Plan - 5 Beds 5.5 Baths 6182 Sq/Ft Plan #1066-28

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All plans are drawn at ¼" scale or larger and include : Foundation Plan: Drawn to 1/4" scale, this page shows all necessary notations and dimensions including support columns, walls and excavated and unexcavated areas. Exterior Elevations: A blueprint picture of all four sides showing exterior materials and measurements.

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Kobi

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Ranch House Plans, Floor Plans & Designs

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The best ranch house floor plans. Find open & modern ranch style home designs, small 3&4 bedroom ranchers w/basement & more! Call 1-800-913-2350 for expert help

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interior modern architectural digest garage contemporary architecture interior design crestwood living room decor sq ft

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Kobi

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Until recently, the ranch home was the most popular home style in America. However, have you ever stopped to wonder what made this style capture our hearts for decades?It's time to take a closer look at exactly what goes into a ranch home. Read on to learn more about its history, the distinct types and some distinguishing characteristics. Chances are good that by the end of this post, you'll fall in love with ranch homes all over again.

History of ranch homes

The inspiration for ranch-style homes as we know them today can be traced back to North American Spanish Colonial architecture. Like ranches, these homes often featured single-story options that were best for battling the Southwestern heat. Rooflines were low with wide eaves. These homes were often U-shaped rather than straight across, but it's easy to see the similarities.By the 1920s, true ranchers - though they were then known as "ramblers" - came into existence. The style experienced its true boom in popularity after World War II, where its ease of construction and customizability made it a favorite among the many returning soldiers who were looking to settle down with their families.By the 1950s, ranch mania had hit full swing. This style of home accounted for nine out every 10 new homes in America, and each region had put its own spin on the look. It wasn't until the 1970s, when tastes veered more toward two-story living again, that production truly slowed down.

Types of ranch homes

California ranch

Originally designed by architect Cliff May for his own personal use, this style of home was meant to be sprawling and to blend in with the California landscape. It borrows influence from the Arts and Crafts movement, as well as Spanish Colonial architecture. These homes stand out for their L- or U-shape with a courtyard in the middle.

Suburban ranch

This is the version of the ranch that was made popular in the post-World War II boom. These homes are essentially smaller, simplified versions of the California originals. They're often built on concrete slabs and feature tract material. However, they still share the open concept floorplan and connection with the outdoors with their predecessors.

Split-level ranch

Though these houses look like a traditional suburban ranch from the street, they actually feature three levels of living. In these homes, the front door leads into the main living area, dining room and kitchen. Then, on one side of the home, there is a half-staircase leading up to the bedrooms and another half-staircase leading down to additional living space.

Raised ranch

Sometimes called split-entry houses, these homes got their name from the fact that, when you walk in the door, you have a choice between walking up or downstairs. In these homes, utilitarian spaces like garages and rec rooms are often directly beneath the kitchen, bedrooms and main living area.

Storybook ranch

Also known as Cinderella ranches, these homes distinguish themselves: Unlike the simple exteriors common in ranch homes, these are full of charm. Exposed rafters, diamond-shaped window panes and ornamental trim are common features.

Defining features of a ranch home

Exterior:

Long, low-pitch roofline

A mix of materials on the exterior (most commonly stucco, wood, brick or stone)

Cross-gabled, side-gabled or hip roof

Deep, overhanging eaves

Large windows

Sliding glass doors

Attached garages

Back patio

Interior:

Single-story living

Open concept living area, dining room and kitchen

Separated bedrooms (usually three)

Full basement

Simple adornments and architectural details

With simple trappings and lots of opportunities for customization, it's no surprise that ranch homes are stl popular today. Does this style attract you, too?

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Defining a House Style: What Is a Ranch Home?

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Until recently, the ranch home was the most popular home style in America. However, have you ever stopped to wonder what made this style capture our hearts for decades?It's time to take a closer look at exactly what goes into a ranch home.

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Fernando