Mod Nouveau: A Look at New Modern Building Styles
Historically, architectural styles are named subsequent to their cultural debut. For example, Mid-Century Modern wasn’t “Mid-Century” until much later. With the growth and evolution of architectural styles in our area, we thought we’d have some fun with what’s deemed “modern” by creating new names for some of the architecture we’re seeing around Boulder.
ALPINE MODERN
Derived from the grandly mountainous Alpine region in Europe, this style mimics the gently sloping roof and wide, well-supported eaves of the classic Swiss chalet, incorporating natural materials for its facade. The exterior is often accented with a snowy white color and natural timbers.
Inside, exposed beams are refined—just enough—and mimic the lines of the gabled roof. Large windows are used (also found in Modern Mountain below) to let the light shine brightly. Subtle colors and a quiet sophistication round out the interior's look and feel.
MOUNTAIN MODERN
We’ve all seen it: stale, dated mountain homes relying on too many rustic design clichés (we’re looking at you, taxidermy and cowboy prints). But hope is not lost: some mountain homeowners are now looking to modern design elements to breathe life into hillside homes.
Mountain Modern incorporates natural materials to create livable warmth and a seamless, in-the-woods feel. Rugged stone columns with slabs of live-edge walnut, petrified wood, and subtle metallic finishes create a nature-inspired exterior that can withstand the harsh and changing weather. Large windows are often used to integrate the beautiful surroundings into the home’s interior.
Inside, streamlined furniture, graceful use of lighting, and unexpected modern accents update this quintessential Colorado style. (Think it's time that eight-point buck came down off the wall? Yeah, we do too.)
MILLENNIAL MODERN
Bold and eye-catching, these bombshells of architecture give a nod to the Brutalist movement from the mid-twentieth century. Each segment of these multi-faceted homes is treated with a unique look, often through siding or other finishes. Form follows function, with the windows and living spaces reaching for the best views.
This style is often seen in multi-level homes, where master suites occupy the top floors with commanding views of the neighborhood and beyond. You'll also find strategically placed patios—some styles boast up to three or four—for plenty of outdoor entertaining.
ENVIROTECTURE
Minimimal environmental impact, innovative use of upcycled materials, ecological conservation at the forefront of design: Envirotecture does not hide its earth-friendliness. Rooftop solar panels stand proud and xeriscaped yards are worn as badges of honor. The mechanical guts of the home are often the superstars with heating, ventilation, and cooling designed with efficiency in mind. Park a Tesla in the driveway and you’ve got Envirotecture at its best.
Another spin on environmentally friendly construction can be found in cargotecture. As we reported back in June, Colorado's container trend is on the rise. Designed using recycled shipping containers, cargotecture is versatile, has a low carbon footprint, and is nearly indestructible.
