What is Modern Exterior Design?
Modern Exterior Design
The outdoor portions of the home are one of its most important features as it is the “face” of the home. Many times it is the first impression that people have of us as well as our home. Modern exterior design is characterized by simplicity as well as functionality. Just like interior design the term “modern” refers to the use of geometric lines and patterns along with natural materials to create a simple but engaging exterior design which is complementary of the home. Another term that is frequently associated with modern exterior design is minimalist; which is characterized by an efficient, effective, concise and practical décor and at the same time has a dynamic effect. The modern outdoor décor of today is more concerned about the quality and character of the outdoor space rather than adding various furnishings or accessories.
What Colors Distinguish Modern Exteriors?
Although there may be some colors added, the modern exterior design incorporates most of them naturally. Many times plants are used to bring some color into the outdoor area. Most of the time, colors will remain neutral and only added in by the natural colors of stone, wood or any other natural materials that are used in building the structure or the landscape features. Wooden beams used to line a patio area, pathways constructed of simple, but natural materials such as gravel, pebbles or un-grouted stone or tile offer texture as well as natural coloring. Usually there is a balanced combination of both dark and light shades which help provide a contemporary but natural feel.
Use of Lines
Lines and geometric patterns are an essential part of modern exterior design. Many of the lines may be brought into the design through the use of various types of hardscapes. Raw concrete may be used to provide a vertical effect along a garden area or a pool. The geometrical shape of the house itself provides some lines for the outdoor décor. These lines can be provided by features such as windows and walls. Water features may include pools, spillways or fountains which provide tranquility as well as crisp angles to accent the design.
Minimal but Functional Accessories
Modern design elements will keep accessories to a minimum so that they are not distracting. But the various accessories, furnishings or decorative pieces that are used will be as unique as the owner’s personality. Stainless steel benches or tables can provide decorative lines along with geometric shape and still be functional which is very important in modern design. Geometric pillars and planters can provide some of the clean lines that are characteristic of this style; and also bring some neutral colors to the palette as well as provide accents for pathways or patios. Many homes use decorations and accessories with an Eastern flair such as Asian urns or oriental rock gardens.
Plants and Vegetation
Unlike other landscape designs grass is one of the most important plants in the design. Shrubbery and plant life can bring different textures and different shapes into the design scheme. Many will incorporate bamboo, different types of palms and various exotic plants which have large irregular shaped leaves or flowers which contribute to the overall design.
What Colors Distinguish Modern Exteriors?
Although there may be some colors added, the modern exterior design incorporates most of them naturally. Many times plants are used to bring some color into the outdoor area. Most of the time, colors will remain neutral and only added in by the natural colors of stone, wood or any other natural materials that are used in building the structure or the landscape features. Wooden beams used to line a patio area, pathways constructed of simple, but natural materials such as gravel, pebbles or un-grouted stone or tile offer texture as well as natural coloring. Usually there is a balanced combination of both dark and light shades which help provide a contemporary but natural feel.
Use of Lines
Lines and geometric patterns are an essential part of modern exterior design. Many of the lines may be brought into the design through the use of various types of hardscapes. Raw concrete may be used to provide a vertical effect along a garden area or a pool. The geometrical shape of the house itself provides some lines for the outdoor décor. These lines can be provided by features such as windows and walls. Water features may include pools, spillways or fountains which provide tranquility as well as crisp angles to accent the design.
Minimal but Functional Accessories
Modern design elements will keep accessories to a minimum so that they are not distracting. But the various accessories, furnishings or decorative pieces that are used will be as unique as the owner’s personality. Stainless steel benches or tables can provide decorative lines along with geometric shape and still be functional which is very important in modern design. Geometric pillars and planters can provide some of the clean lines that are characteristic of this style; and also bring some neutral colors to the palette as well as provide accents for pathways or patios. Many homes use decorations and accessories with an Eastern flair such as Asian urns or oriental rock gardens.
Plants and Vegetation
Unlike other landscape designs grass is one of the most important plants in the design. Shrubbery and plant life can bring different textures and different shapes into the design scheme. Many will incorporate bamboo, different types of palms and various exotic plants which have large irregular shaped leaves or flowers which contribute to the overall design.