Traditional Architecture Vs. Modern Architecture: Differences And Connections

Our world today has drastically changed from back in the 20th century, all sorts of machinery with the help of technology have been invented to make work easier for human beings. However, the traditional ways to carry tasks are fading and very few parts of it have been preserved. Architecture has been divided into many categories to fit the lifestyle of people in a particular place at a particular time. There are two types of architecture, which are traditional architecture and modern architecture. Traditional architecture is mainly classified as historical buildings that have a lot of character and culture incorporated into them and artists were commissioned to put some colour into the building giving each one an individual stamp. On the other hand, modern architecture is known as the movement of architecture that began in the 20th century, it is also architecture that is characterised by the simplification of forms and subtraction of ornaments. Modern architecture can be some of the most futuristic, colourful, innovative designs ever. Modern architecture shows more benefits toward people and environment than traditional architecture. So which architectural style is more preferable by people?

When it comes to 21st century living, there are many reasons to go with modern architecture. First of all, the spaciousness is highlighted in modern architecture. Modern architecture does not utilize space haphazardly; rather, space is used as efficiently as possible and complements the entire structure as a whole. This includes designing ceiling space as well as hallways and corridors to maximize airflow and minimize transitional spaces. Modern house plans generally look for a balance between space and overall home size. Within modern homes, living space is never limited to indoor space but also extends to the way a house is built into the surrounding environment. A good modern home design will consider space both in and around the house and the surrounding.

Modern architecture also seeks for extra natural light levels and ventilation. Modern architecture tends to use lots of glass, either large windows or glass doors, flooding the house with natural light, emphasizing views, and maximize the natural ventilation. The large window frames or glass doors enabling panoramic views and natural ambient lights to make it all that easier to enjoy the outdoors. This will not only enhance the living quality of human, but also cut down the energy usage of lightning and air conditioning. The carbon footprint of the earth will indirectly reduce by cutting off excess energy consumption.

Beside that, modern architecture has more aesthetically pleasing design. Modern architecture uses straight and curved lines to make a versatile living space. Geometric forms are more in demand instead of the traditional columns and arches. Modern architecture features large, bold exterior massing elements; simple shallow sloped shed or flat rooflines; mixtures of natural wood, stone, metal and glass elements; and sharp, clean lines. A goal of contemporary home design is to integrate aesthetically pleasing aspects into the overall design plan while minimizing unnecessary structural add-ons. With the futuristic and massive of building design, people will have an eye-pleasing experience and reinvented.

Moreover, modern architecture also employed with lots of smarter technologies to improve living quality of people. Some of the buildings apply automatic system which can control every devices. People can control the systems and do what they want，it brings great convenience to human. With advancement in technology and innovations, even modern architecture tends to use materials that are energy-efficient and low-maintenance. Certain modern architecture designs include usage of unconventional energy sources like solar power, rainwater harvesting and wind energy. This helps in saving a lot of money on bills.

‘Green’, or environmentally friendly design is the biggest buzzword in the industry right now. Every designers or architects are trying to apply “Green” in their design and building. Modern architecture greatly focuses on interplay between man and environment in a given space. It thoughtfully includes plants and greenery to add calmness and freshness within the living spaces. Plants have a number of benefits in architecture. One of the most surprising is their psychological benefit: scientists have shown that workers in an office with plants have 12% higher productivity and significantly reduced stress compared to those in offices without plants. This effect comes just from looking at the plants, which seems to have a calming effect. Plants also naturally remove toxins from the air and also help cooling the air through a process called transpiration, which also helps maintain proper humidity levels of air.

In conclusion, modern architecture shows more benefits than traditional architecture is well deserved. It shows the spaciousness, more aesthetically pleasing design, extra light levels, well ventilation, smarter technologies and “green”. But undeniably, traditional architecture also has some benefits which is irreplaceable. So why do not traditional architecture and modern architecture co-exist at the same time to create a better design and environment?