Technology, Architecture and the Simple Life
The Dalene Cabin by Tommie Wilhelmsen is situated in a gorgeous island setting with its facade facing south to allow in as much natural light as possible. Finishes of concrete and oak give the interior a sustainable lift. Image courtesy of ArchDaily.
The Bullitt Center by Miller|Hull is the first urban building of its kind and is commonly referred to as “the greenest building in the world”. It features both Net-Zero energy as well as Net-Zero water. This office is naturally day-lit and ventilated, and is projected to last over 250 years.
As the progression of time bends and molds the world around us, we are continuously faced with the reality of the aftermath left in its wake. Being ʻhumanʼ provides us with the innate capacity to adapt to this ever-present variability. This prehistoric gift should continuously be reflected in the development of our technological sphere, the arts, and the design of our environments.
ʻContemporary architectureʼ in itself is an umbrella term for a very specific idea; contemporary architecture, as a definitive term, depicts any kind of architecture that is being produced at present. So, that being said, what are we doing in architecture to account for our evolving contemporary lifestyles? While some of todayʼs eccentric design captivates our imaginations, is it functional for our routine, everyday lives?
Trends in architecture and design are undeniably shifting in conjunction with our significant relationship to technology. Since the smart-phone first made a statement in the mid to late 2000ʼs, we have been adapting to a new, largely digital way of life. The capacity to see most of our lives on a 5 x 2 inch screen has awoken a new desire to purge clutter and seek simplicity in our surroundings. Clean lines, an abundance of natural light, and passive, sustainable design are a select few of many contemporary architectural elements influenced by our bond with technology. With so much of our daily clutter eliminated by the dexterity of our hard-drives, why not embrace a little spatial clarity? Here are a few examples of contemporary spaces that embrace our present-day yearning for the uncomplicated...
Four-Cornered Villa by Avanto Architects - Finland
This Port Ludlow house has a number of sustainable or “green” features, including 2x8 construction (40% greater insulation value), generous glass areas to provide natural lighting and ventilation, large overhangs for sun and rain protection, a heat-pump mechanical system for maximum energy efficiency, as well as various sustainable interior finishes. Image courtesy of Futurist Architecture.