How to Design Modern Looking Houses for Contemporary Living • 333+ Inspiring Lifestyle Ideas

Designing modern looking houses for contemporary living is an art form that combines aesthetics, functionality, and a deep understanding of the needs of the inhabitants. The Range Life Home, a contemporary bungalow designed by RELM Builders and PLOTNONPLOT Architecture, serves as a perfect example of this art form. Nestled in Ottawa’s established Glabar Park neighborhood, this house is a testament to innovative design and detailing strategies that blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior.

Range Life Home / Architects: PLOTNONPLOT Architecture, RELM Builders / Photographs:Killeen | RELM

Designing Modern Looking Houses: The Art of Blurring Boundaries

The Range Life Home is a masterclass in how to blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior of modern looking houses. The architects implemented various design and detailing strategies to create a home that captures both the openness of roaming outdoors with the safety of enclosure. Visibility from the street to the inside of the home is minimized through dramatic vertical cuts into the façade, oblique angles to gracious views, a deeply-carved roof with protective overhangs, interior screening mechanisms, and careful functional programming. When designing modern looking houses, consider how you can use similar strategies to create a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

Incorporating Playful Elements in Modern Looking Houses

Despite the restrictive covenants governing the street where the Range Life Home is located, the architects managed to incorporate playful elements that create a dynamic home for the family and visitors alike. These elements add a touch of whimsy and character to the house, making it a unique and inviting space. When designing modern looking houses, consider how you can incorporate playful elements that reflect the personalities of the inhabitants and create a home that is truly one-of-a-kind.

Emphasizing Natural Light in Modern Looking Houses

One of the key features of modern looking houses is the emphasis on natural light. In the Range Life Home, thoughtful illumination strategies allow natural light and shadow to be emphasized from dawn to dusk against the white exterior form and glass. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the house but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. When designing modern looking houses, consider how you can incorporate natural light to create a bright and airy living space.

Respecting the Surroundings in Modern Looking Houses

Modern looking houses should not only be aesthetically pleasing and functional, but they should also respect the surroundings. The Range Life Home, for instance, is designed to blend seamlessly with Ottawa’s established Glabar Park neighborhood. The design and architecture of the house reflect the character and charm of the neighborhood, creating a home that is in harmony with its surroundings. When designing modern looking houses, consider how you can respect and enhance the character of the neighborhood.

The Role of Local Materials in Modern Looking Houses

The use of local materials is a key consideration when designing modern looking houses. The Range Life Home, for instance, showcases the beauty of locally sourced materials, creating a continuity between the interior and exterior. The use of local materials not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the house but also reduces its environmental impact. When designing modern looking houses, consider how you can incorporate local materials to create a home that is sustainable and in harmony with its surroundings.

Incorporating Functional Programming in Modern Looking Houses

Functional programming is an essential aspect of designing modern looking houses. In the Range Life Home, careful functional programming minimizes visibility from the street to the inside of the home, ensuring privacy while maintaining a connection with the outdoors. When designing modern looking houses, consider how you can incorporate functional programming to create a home that meets the specific needs of the inhabitants while enhancing their quality of life.

Creating Dynamic Spaces in Modern Looking Houses

Modern looking houses should offer dynamic spaces that cater to the varied needs of the inhabitants. The Range Life Home, for instance, offers a variety of spaces that can be used for different purposes, from quiet relaxation to social gatherings. These dynamic spaces add a touch of versatility to the house, making it a truly modern living space. When designing modern looking houses, consider how you can create dynamic spaces that cater to the varied needs of the inhabitants.

Emphasizing Safety in Modern Looking Houses

Safety is a key consideration when designing modern looking houses. The Range Life Home, for instance, features a deeply-carved roof with protective overhangs that provide protection from the elements. The design of the house also minimizes visibility from the street, ensuring privacy and security. When designing modern looking houses, consider how you can incorporate safety features that enhance the security and comfort of the inhabitants.

Conclusion

Designing modern looking houses for contemporary living is a complex process that requires a deep understanding of aesthetics, functionality, and the needs of the inhabitants. The Range Life Home serves as a shining example of how these elements can come together to create a home that is not just visually appealing, but also functional, versatile, and safe. It stands as a testament to the power of innovative design and thoughtful planning in creating modern looking houses that enhance the quality of life of the inhabitants.