Wondering whether your home is contemporary, modern or mid-century? It can be hard to tell, but this guide will help you understand exactly what makes a house contemporary. We're talking about glass, steel, asymmetrical designs, and houses that push the creative boundaries in the most beautiful ways.

WHAT IS THE CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURAL STYLE?

Contemporary architecture usually refers to the style of home built after the middle of the 20th century and especially into the 21st century. It can sometimes be confused with modern or mid-century architecture, but those are actually distinct styles. Mid-century and modern styles have influenced contemporary style, so you'll find that they share some elements like open spaces and mixing of materials, but contemporary houses have their own unique look, with no single style or aesthetic dominating.

First made popular by architects such as Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, Norman Foster, and Renzo Piano, contemporary architecture is constantly changing and evolving as architects and homeowners try new materials and push creative boundaries.

Technology Drives Design

As technology advances, so too does home design. New technologies and access to stronger materials have given contemporary homes a look that couldn't even be imagined with traditional building materials. Designs can easily include curves, asymmetrical shapes, floating floors and ceilings, and glass walls. New technology has also made heating and cooling far easier and more effective. That means houses can have bigger rooms and don't need the giant fireplaces of years gone by. (Although they do have their own special charm!)

KEY ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES

More traditional styles and designs follow a set of rules and norms to create a signature style. Contemporary design playfully combines elements from different eras and design styles to create a look that is truly new and unique. There is no “sticking to the rules” for contemporary homes; it's all about putting things together in non-traditional ways. So, when it comes to choosing aesthetic elements like siding for your contemporary home, there really are no wrong choices.

Accentuate Harmony with Nature

Contemporary homes are often inspired by the ideals and values of their owners. One of those values is to create harmony with nature. Glass is often an important feature used to draw in the outdoors and accentuate beautiful views. Contemporary homes inspired by this value can be designed so that they blend with the natural environment, using muted, earthy tones and natural-looking finishes.

Prioritize Sustainability

Sustainability is a major focus in contemporary home design. These homes are built with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating features like rooftop gardens, solar panels, and effective heating and cooling systems. The use of sustainable materials like recycled steel, bamboo and reclaimed wood reflects the eco-friendly values of contemporary homeowners.

Expect an Easy Flow

Contemporary-style homes are designed to have an easy flow. You can expect living areas that are open-plan or share similar traits.

However, recent contemporary design has made a significant shift in this area. New trends are showing owners and designers moving away from large open spaces that bleed into other rooms, in favor of living spaces that make room for more alone time. Spaces like reading nooks and separate kitchens are gaining popularity in this new and interesting move.

Keep the Clutter Away

Minimalism and functionality are also key aspects, with contemporary homes often featuring uncluttered spaces, a neutral color palette and multifunctional furniture. This minimalist approach emphasizes the contemporary value of simplicity and practicality.

It's All About You

Most importantly, contemporary homes are highly customizable, reflecting the personal tastes and lifestyles of their owners. From bespoke furniture to unique artistic features, every element can be tailored to create a truly personalized living space.

WHAT ABOUT COLORS AND SIDING?

Contemporary design invites homeowners and architects to let their imaginations run wild. The idea is to create a polished and thoughtful final product, but you can really let your house reflect your personal style and preferences.

Contemporary homes can be subtle and muted with earthy tones and an abundance of glass, but many use brighter, bolder colors mixed with steel or vivid tiling to make a bigger statement.

Siding and trim options are diverse and innovative, often featuring materials like Hardie® siding for its durability and sleek appearance. Options such as Hardie® Plank Lap Siding and Hardie® Panel Siding in smooth, work well, providing clean lines and a modern look.

These sidings can be seamlessly combined with large expanses of glass to maximize natural light and provide a connection to the outdoors. Steel accents add a modern, industrial touch, creating a striking contrast with the smooth finish of fiber cement siding. This blend of materials not only enhances the home's aesthetic appeal but also provides longevity with minimal maintenance.

HELP ME IMAGINE MY CONTEMPORARY HOUSE

Need some design guidance? Choosing your siding and color combinations can be an overwhelming process! How do you pick from so many options — and how do you know if it'll turn out the way you imagine? The Hover ® Design Studio app, brought to you by James Hardie, is a great first step in the process, allowing you to preview your design ideas on a model of your actual home. The complete collection of Hardie® sidings and colors are available to choose from, which means you can try out different combinations and get a good idea of what you like before you commit to a certain look.

Once you've landed on a few designs that you might like, request a sample to make sure they look just as good in your natural light as they do online.

If you’re ready to start your re-side journey with a professional, Request a Siding Quote so we can connect you with skilled local contractors. The James Hardie Contractor Alliance® Program connects homeowners with contractors nationwide whom you can trust are both licensed and insured.