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   House Styles
 Rebuilding & Restoration>Design>House Styles>

Modern House Styles

In the 20th century, many advocates of the Modern movement called for a break with the past and for the invention of new forms that would create the vision of a new world.  Those architects tended to rely on international models rather than local ones.

Much of the architecture from the Modern movement represents a break with the threads of tradition. At the same time, there were some who recognized the importance of regional identity and found new ways of interpreting certain aspects of traditional forms. Among them, Hays Town, John Desmond and Lloyd Vogt combined a keen interest in Louisiana architectural history with a modern architectural practice. In the 21st century, a growing number of architects are working in this direction.

Respecting the role of innovation, this style section takes a slightly different approach than the pages for the traditional styles presented previously in the Pattern Book. While the traditional style sections provide patterns based on conventions, the Modern style section sets three basic performance criteria for innovative designers.

The first is to provide buildings that contribute to the character and quality of the public space. Elements such as porches, galleries, windows and clearly defined entrances facing the street are essential components of achieving this goal.

The second is to follow the principles of green design, which include shading devices, passive solar design, the use of overhangs, galleries and porches, as well as providing proper orientation to the sun.

The third is to use forms that resonate with the traditions of the region. However different the materials or shapes may be, they should convey the image of a Louisiana building and be seen as innovative ways of carrying forward the much-loved traditions.

Therefore, these Modern style pages provide examples from Louisiana and elsewhere to illustrate ways in which architects are achieving this complex mix of innovation and respect for context. This section also differs from previous ones in that it will be used primarily by architects, while the traditional pages can be used by home builders and their staffs. Modern architecture is widely used in more urban mixed-use buildings.

Essential Elements
  • Open floor plans
  • Continuous flow of space between indoors and outdoors
  • Innovation in building technology and architectural form
  • Simple forms without figural ornamentation

Modern House Styles Gallery
Modern House Styles. From the Louisiana Speaks Pattern Book.

Modern House Styles Elements
Elements of Modern House Styles. From the Louisiana Speaks Pattern Book.

Modern House Styles Elements
Elements of Modern House Styles. From the Louisiana Speaks Pattern Book.






Posted on: 5/18/2007 9:36:15 AM

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