How Modern Design Benefits Each Family Member
Have you ever heard the term “modern home” and wondered what it actually means? Considering how general it sounds, and how the words “modern” and “contemporary” are often used interchangeably, all the confusion is more than valid!
In residential architecture, spaces created through the lens of modern design boast a universal appeal through their sleek minimalism and functionality that improves the everyday lives of their residents. When designed well, a modern home can accommodate families of all kinds, from couples with young kids to empty nesters to multigenerational households.
In today’s post, we are going to explain what modern design is and share its distinguishing characteristics. Then, we’ll discuss how various family members living in a modern home can benefit–so you can be well-informed when it comes to your own home, whether you’re looking to renovate, build from scratch, or generally just improve your current space.
To define modern design, it’s helpful to first distinguish it from contemporary design. Contemporary design is defined by the current moment, and can shift greatly depending on the trends of the time. Modern design, however, is connected to a specific historical time period. While the modern home has evolved over time, it still takes its cues from its roots and the philosophy behind this particular design approach.
On that note, let’s do a quick flyover on the history of modern design.
Modern design was born out of the modern art movement of the early- to mid-twentieth century, which includes the distinct Art Deco designs of the 1920s as well as the still-popular mid century modern designs of the 50s and 60s. The roots of the modern art movement trace from Scandinavian design to Bauhaus, a post-WWI German art school that combined crafts and the fine arts, and whose style influenced a variety of fields from architecture and interior design to typography and graphic design.
When translated to architecture, modern design is characterized by clean lines, natural colors and materials, open floor plans, and seamlessly integrated tech. Here, the ultimate goal of modern design is to simplify the home and enhance its function, focusing on the residents’ experience rather than decorative frills or grandiose elements signifying a particular social status. A modern home is meant to feel warm, welcoming, and approachable, all while exuding an atmosphere of casual calm.
The opposite of “stuffy,” a well-designed modern home can boost its residents’ moods and improve mental clarity. Its lack of overstimulating design elements allows residents to feel at peace and relaxed, and an abundance of natural light helps energize and inspire. Open floor plans bring families together, and big windows with lots of natural light can improve everybody’s health. In short, a modern home can be a welcoming retreat from our fast-paced, tech-addled atmosphere of today.
Next, let’s talk about how modern homes can improve the lives of its inhabitants by focusing on three different categories of family members.
1. Young Children
Up first we have young children, who can benefit greatly from the features in a modern home. Modern design’s emphasis on minimalism and built-in storage yields less clutter, making the space safer and more kid-friendly. With fewer items to trip over or get into, children can explore their environment more freely and safely. Open common spaces also allow kids to roam within sight of a parent, providing a perfect balance of freedom and supervision.
2. Teenagers
Next up are teens, whose health and wellness can improve by living in a modern home. Open floor plans can help boost their mental health by bringing them closer to their family, whether or not they say they want this! These layouts encourage family members to interact more frequently, fostering a supportive and connected household. Also, modern design provides needed rest and comfort for teens, who are busier–and perhaps face more sometimes-conflicting pressures–than ever these days.
3. Aging Adults
Last but not least, older residents can also benefit from the characteristics of modern design. Smart home and sustainability-forward elements offer conveniences that are especially helpful for residents with less mobility. Automated lighting, voice-activated assistants, security systems, and more can enhance safety and make daily routines easier. (By the way: while many of these tech features didn’t exist when modern design came into being, they mark the movement’s evolution into our current age while reflecting its original ethos of minimalism and functionality.)
What’s more, big windows and design elements that connect a modern home to the outdoors can improve the holistic health of older residents, making these spaces ideal for multigenerational living.
Ultimately, the modern home caters to the needs of all family members, enhancing their comfort, connectivity, and wellbeing. It can be tailored to the unique routines and aesthetics of its residents, too. Whether it’s creating a safe environment for young children, providing a serene environment for teens, or adding convenience to the daily rhythms of aging adults, a modern home is a sanctuary for all.
Article written and reviewed by Phillip Summers, AIA
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