Restoring older properties has always been popular amongst homeowners and developers, but recent times have seen the emergence of a new trend. More and more people are investing time and money into renovating very old structures, but rather than recreating the way the property would have looked at the time of its construction, they are modernising and adapting the structures. The idea is to retain the traditional aesthetic of the property’s exterior, while presenting a completely contrasting interior, giving the building a renovation with a twist.

Modern architecture often features minimal decorative elements, instead showcasing the beauty of the building materials themselves for a simple and clean aesthetic. There is typically emphasis on horizontal and vertical lines along with rectangular forms. Houses are often shaped like boxes or connected by box-shaped areas, and materials are often used in vertical forms and placed against horizontal features for dramatic effect.

In modern interiors, kitchen, dining and living spaces are often designed to flow together as one continuous space to suit a more casual and relaxed way of life. In traditional properties, windows were functional portals of light, but modern architecture utilises glass in new ways. Windows may be installed as floor to ceiling panes of glass that provide dramatic views and flood spaces with natural light.

A further aspect of modern architecture is the honest presentation of materials. Wood is typically stained rather than painted to retain its natural character and express its unique texture. Traditional materials such as stone, brick and wood can also be used in simple yet creative ways to reflect modern design trends. Exposed steel columns and concrete floors are particularly popular, and can be stunning additions to traditional properties.

The combination of traditional and modern architecture can create unique and contrasting spaces. We specialise in helping our clients turn their older properties into sustainable, modern homes, so if you wish to work with a professional architect in London on any kind of project, give us a call.