Modernism is an umbrella term for several identifiable styles. Modern design focuses on clean lines/aesthetic, simplicity, neutral colors, functionality, and open spaces. Contemporary is what’s current, and ever-changing and it is currently my least favorite, featuring the same shades of green and giant marble slabs. In this age of modern contemporary designs, homes are like shells of modernism used as a means to an end of a capitalist society. The biggest misfortune of modern design is the undoing of history, style, and the lack of taste development.
Destroying house styles that are no longer produced
If you’re like me and mostly enjoy renovation content, you’ll have noticed a wave of migration from the Western states. Unfortunately, this has shown a disregard for any sense of appreciation or preservation for their new settlement. You should, of course, be comfortable wherever you decide to settle; however, we continue to see this in places such as New York. Knowingly moving in for a set term and raising taxes and rent, which push out natives, only to move, leaving behind unappreciated contributions. Not to say there aren’t buildings that require updates, but safety updates don’t replace home aesthetics with trending goods.
*Historical Housing Designation
Some homes are saved from the threat of assimilation via designation. Preservation can sometimes create challenges if you weren’t designing your house with them in mind, as well as wait times for receiving approvals, and sometimes having to work with an approved specialist. It’s similar to an HOA, minus the yearly fees. However, it not only saves homes from having their character ruined, but it also showcases craftsmanship not typically seen in this era. On the other hand, restoration is costly, which alienates buyers without adequate funds or available sweat equity.
Falsely advertising as a luxury
Luxury has become a buzzword for selling tactics. Yes, there is sometimes marble involved unnecessarily, as it’s not a practical stone; it’s more for show, which is not typical for everyday households. White paint is the new eggshell; it’s the canvas for you to envision on, within regulation, if you’re renting. High sealings and large windows look grand, but they attract dust, are inefficiant at insulating, and create cramped upper levels in multi storied-homes. Let’s not forget that new builds have been under heavy scrutiny for their lack of quality and care. Even if not marketed as luxury, developers are not being held accountable for the quality of their work.
Housing is essential, and the type directly affects your quality of life. Affordable is a debatable term at this point. The majority of people live paycheck to paycheck, but the cost of maintenance dictates the minimum rent, which some landlords are supposedly inflating without a just reason, among other issues. It’s wonderful to aspire to a luxurious lifestyle, but luxury is in fact directly tied to both quality and price, which is not in line with current standards, with the added component of reduced individuality. So, cheers to the future turning point of housing, which will hopefully be bright.
