Expert Article DRAFT

Modernism Is Ugly

Why Your House Is More Like an Insane Asylum Than A Sanctuary

What better pastime is there than to judge houses you can’t afford on Zillow? None! But when you’re looking for your future home (imagining you had an unlimited budget), what exactly are you looking for? Certainly not something modern I hope!

 

As an avid HGTV watcher, I know a thing or two about real estate and architecture. Growing up watching House Hunters, I suffered disappointment one too many times as I would watch couples choose the ugliest out of three homes that they were shown. To prevent you from making the same mistake when it comes to your future home I will be telling you what kind of architecture you should definitely evict from your choices and which kinds you should open the door to.

 

Brutalism, a subcategory within modern architecture has been on the rise since its development in the 1950. Emerging post World War II, you could see where the style gets its roots from. Brutalist homes are constructed with exposed raw materials and somber colors and, no doubtedly, receive much criticism. Rightfully so I say! Mark Bittoni, of Bittoni Architects, on the other hand, argues that “the philosophy behind Brutalist architecture is rooted in the belief that architectural design should prioritize functionality, honesty, and social purpose” (AD). What I don’t get is why these ‘functional’ designs can’t have some pops of color.

 

 

The floorplan for this article:

1. Why modernism is bad
2. Best home architectural styles
   

 

Why Modernism in Home Architecture is Bad

Brutalism is just as it seems: brutal! Our environment has one of the greatest impacts on our health. The colors and shapes that surround us all play a part in the emotional responses we have. Similar to when the weather is gloomy and people experience seasonal depression, living amongst dark colors and sharp, abnormal shapes makes quite the impression. The angular forms in Brutalist homes trigger activation in the amygdala, the part of our brain associated with emotional memory and often has links to fear (Psychology Today). Rough edges and exposed raw materials are likely to leave one feeling troubled and anxious. It seems rather counterintuitive for ‘home’ to feel dismal, rather than being an oasis. Another potential cause of the psychological response you could experience? It might be that the post-war architecture doesn’t exactly inspire feelings of joy. Brutalist homes have a better association with “poverty, urban decay, and soviet regimes” than it does with hospitality (Hommes). Modern homes eliminate any sense of creativity and comfort and instead replace it with nostalgia for a rather unfortunate time. While Brutalist architects emphasize functionality, it is rather disappointing that their projects fail to possess any artistry.

 

Bring Back Traditionalism! 

Moving on from the drag that is Brutalism, here are my top ranked home architectural styles and why they should be contenders for your list too.

 

1. Victorian

 

• “Constructed more for beauty than functionality, Victorian homes tend to be more complex in design with ornate trim, bright colors, large porches, asymmetrical shape and multi-faceted rooflines” (HGTV).

 

First and foremost: Victorian! If you have been to San Francisco there is no doubt you have seen the Paint Ladies (see right image). These beautiful homes are just one example of Victorian architecture and show the true potential of the style. Victorian homes have a timeless essence and age remarkably well. One of their key features is their traditionally bright and bold colors. A complete counter to the gray (and sad) colors of Brutalist homes, the expressive exterior of Victorian homes elicits positive emotions. Say goodbye to boring minimalism and hello to sensational architecture. Typically constructed with two stories to three stories (good luck affording one!) and gabled roofs, Victorian homes are your IRL dollhouses. Inside you will find high ceilings, intricate nooks, stained glass windows, and decorative woodwork (Elle Decor). My personal favorite touch: window seats! Nothing makes you feel like curling up with a good book in the sunlight more than a cozy alcove. Victorian homes have an overall romantic character that is incomparable to the dreary modern architecture we are faced with today. I truly will never understand why they stop building beautiful homes like these (any and all costs aside).

2. Spanish Colonial

 

•  “They typically have clay roof tiles, arcaded porches, arched corridors, square pillars and bell towers, as well as quatrefoil windows that resemble flowers” (HGTV).

 

Now you might be thinking that the exterior of a Spanish Colonial home is quite simple (‘How could they possibly be better than modernism?’), but their simplicity on the outside is made up with their exquisite interiors. Spanish Colonial homes were first built between the 1600s and 1800s by Spaniards. One of their most recognized features is the red, barrel tiled roof, which is harmonious with the white stucco walls. Within these homes, we see arched doorways, wooden beamed ceilings, and decorative Mexican ceramic tiles. The combination of these attributes doesn’t fall short of emitting a casual, warm feel to Spanish Colonial homes (House Beautiful). The best part about these homes is that they do not follow any specific color palette, instead, they are welcoming to pops of color throughout the interior. While the base of the home is a bit neutral, the white walls act as a blank canvas, waiting for the artist (homeowner in this case) to make their first paint stroke. Despite Spanish Colonial homes having raw adobe walls not covered with plaster, they feel casual, as opposed to the unfinished feeling that Brutalist homes possess. The ability to mix textures and patterns when it comes to decor means endless possibilities for the creativity you can bestow upon your home.

3. Cottage

 

• “A cottage-style house typically refers to a small home made of stone or wood siding. It features a curved entryway, gravel or brick front walkway and brighter exterior colors. Today, flowers typically adorn the entryway creating beautiful curb appeal” (HGTV).

 

Last but certainly not least are Cottage homes. Wish to transport to your favorite childhood fairytale? Well, then a Cottage home might be just for you! These storybook-like homes have an incomparable charm that you don’t get with modern architecture. For someone who prefers a cozy, intimate vibe, look no further. The main feature of Cottage homes is to provide a welcoming feeling to not only the homeowner but to guests as well. Cobblestone pathways, slate roofs, window boxes, and brick garden walls add charm to these tiny but mighty bungalows (DK Studio). If you take a step through the front door of one of these homes, you’ll notice the fireplace is a central element. Along with the brick that the fireplace is made of, stone, stucco, and wood siding can also be found. (Essentially a perfect combination of elements from Victorian and Spanish Colonial). My favorite feature? The garden of course! The soft lavenders, blues, pinks, and yellows from a variety of plants and flowers create an ethereal aura around the entirety of the home. They are also a nice break from your traditional, yet boring, manicured grass lawn. If you ever have the opportunity to live in a Cottage home in a forest, away from capitalism and all responsibilities, I say take it, or I will!

Works Cited

“26 Popular Architectural Home Styles.” HGTV, www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/popular-architectural-home-styles-pictures. Accessed 6 Feb. 2024.

A Complete Guide to Victorian Style Houses - Elle Decor, www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/a40023952/victorian-style-house/. Accessed 7 Feb. 2024.

Kett, Dianne. “The Defining Features of Cottage-Style Homes.” DK Studio, DK Studio, 21 Aug. 2022, www.studiodk.com/blog//cottage-style-homes-and-architecture.

McLaughlin, Katherine. “Brutalist Architecture: Everything You Need to Know.” Architectural Digest, 12 July 2023, www.architecturaldigest.com/story/brutalist-architecture-101.

Spanish Colonial Design Style - What Is Spanish Colonial Design?, www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a25056763/spanish-colonial-design-style/. Accessed 7 Feb. 2024.

“Unhappy Hipsters: Does Modern Architecture Make Us Gloomy?” Psychology Today, Sussex Publishers, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/design-and-the-mind/201002/unhappy-hipsters-does-modern-architecture-make-us-gloomy. Accessed 6 Feb. 2024.

“What Is Brutalist Design, Brutalist Architecture and Brutalist Furniture?” Hommés Studio | Modern Interior Design, 15 Dec. 2023, hommes.studio/journal/what-is-brutalist-design-brutalist-architecture-and-brutalist-furniture/#:~:text=In%20addition%20to%20raw%20concrete,for%20function%20over%20anything%20else.