As you move down the path of designing and building a home, you may come to a crossroads. Should you go for a design with a more contemporary feel, or should you go safer with a timeless look?
Both options have their benefits and drawbacks worth knowing. This article takes a closer look at these two design options so that you make the best choice.
What Do We Mean by Contemporary and Timeless Design?
Let’s take a moment and define the two terms so that you have a full understanding.
Contemporary design, as the name suggests, forgoes the past and focuses more on the present and, in many cases, the future. These homes embrace the now and the next.
It is the rebel in architecture. It avoids traditional styling, opting for a cleaner, more cutting-edge look. Contemporary homes share features like sleek lines and innovative materials and strive to be unapologetically cool.
Many people think contemporary architecture is synonymous with modern architecture, but contemporary design doesn’t reside in only one style. Even some traditional homes can adopt contemporary styling. The key ingredient is being different in new ways.
Timeless design is the antithesis of a rebel. It is an enduring style that doesn’t make an overt statement or dive into a cutting-edge trend. Like the story of Goldylox and the Three Bears, timeless design isn’t too contemporary and bold or too traditional and stuffy. It sits right in the middle for maximum appeal. It doesn’t want to offend anyone.
Timeless design is a nod to the enduring beauty of well-crafted details. The designs have been time-tested and refined, showcasing traits most people find appealing, often removing the edgier aspects.
Like contemporary design, timeless design isn’t limited to one home style. The architecture can be traditional or modern. However you use it, the style isn’t here to surprise. At the same time, some homes can be quite elegant and appealing.
Contemporary Design Pros and Cons:
Contemporary design’s pros also happen to be cons. Let’s take a look at both.
Pros of Contemporary Design:
It Offers a Cutting-Edge Aesthetic: A contemporary custom home is an ideal canvas for self-expression, and the more expressive it is, the better. It works as a gallery for your cutting-edge style. It is also is expressive and modern in terms of its materials. The homes often highlight industrial and natural materials, often to the extreme.
If this sounds like your lifestyle, then contemporary and modern design is your ideal backdrop.
Contemporary Design is a Technology Wonderland: Contemporary homes embrace today and the future, making them a playground for smart technology. Automated systems, integrated security, and green traits like high energy efficiency are all hallmarks of contemporary homes. It prefers the Jetsons’ version of reality.
It’s Your Home for Creating a Bold Statement: Contemporary homes push the envelope in search of something new. This means your home may be the architectural exclamation mark in your neighborhood. It’s not just a living space; it’s a conversation starter – a creative masterpiece that mirrors your bold outlook on life.
Cons of Contemporary Design:
It Can Be a Trend Trap: Fads often fade, and so do contemporary trends. That vibrant lime-green wall you adore today might be tomorrow’s example of dated design. Be ready to update as time and trends change.
The architectural framework is more challenging to change. It helps to have an expert eye and prior understanding of trends (and their mistakes) to ensure the home stays appealing.
You Risk Sterility: The sleek lines of contemporary design might inadvertently edge out the cozy warmth you seek in a home. Your living space might feel more like a blank canvas than a snug sanctuary.
You May Face Resale Challenges: While a contemporary home can be an eye-catcher, it often sells to fewer buyers than timeless home designs. Reselling could be more of a challenge if potential buyers don’t share your love for edgy aesthetics.
You Could Face Cutting-Edge Issues: There is a famous quote from an owner of a Frank Lloyd Wright home, an architect who excelled at cutting-edge homes for his time. The contemporary home was prone to leaking, to which the owner said, “This is what happens when you leave a work of art out in the rain.” First-edition designs don’t always have the issues worked out, which could cost you.
Timeless Design Pros and Cons
If you don’t like living on the edge, a timeless home is the right place for you. There are also other benefits, as well as drawbacks. Let’s take a look.
Pros of Timeless Design
You Surround Yourself in Eternal Charm: Timeless homes possess an inherent charm that doesn’t go quickly out of style. Elements like intricate molding, wood detailing, and a neutral color palette create an ambiance that’s warm, inviting, and eternally classy.
This Design is Resale Friendly: Your home could be a hot commodity on the real estate market. Timeless designs have broader appeal, attracting buyers seeking enduring aesthetics over fleeting trends.
You Can Still Add Personal Touches: A timeless canvas doesn’t mean you can’t splatter it with your unique strokes. Your home can still showcase your personality through heirlooms, curated décor, and a cozy atmosphere that stands the test of time. Not all museums are cutting-edge. Even simply adding an intriguing paint color will up your look, and paint is easy and cheap to change.
Cons of Timeless Design
You May Face Maintenance Issues: Even though contemporary homes have contemporary maintenance problems, timeless designs can sometimes be safer, but they aren’t void of the problem. Ornate detailing and classic materials can sometimes demand a bit more TLC. You’ll need to watch for wear and tear, investing time and effort into preserving that ageless look.
You Can Only Achieve Limited Modern Flair: A timeless home might not provide the canvas you crave for more up-to-date furniture designs or creative interior design solutions. Joining the appropriate furniture to match the home’s architecture may leave you wanting more regarding the look.
Innovation Inhibition: You have fewer opportunities for futuristic technology integration. Sure, many advancements can be added (inside walls, for example) but in general, a timeless design isn’t at the forefront in accommodating for them.
The Verdict
When it comes to choosing between contemporary and timeless custom homes, the decision rests on your lifestyle, aesthetic needs, and vision for the future. If you’re a boundary-pushing maverick with eyes firmly focused on the future, then contemporary is the one to choose. If you value enduring elegance and easier resale or want your home to be a legacy for generations, timeless design is the better choice.
Whichever path you choose, ensure your home embodies who you are; after all, this is your home. Arbor Builders can make your vision a reality.
Contemporary or Timeless Custom Home? 13 Pros and Cons to Help You Decide
As you move down the path of designing and building a home, you may come to a crossroads. Should you go for a design with a more contemporary feel, or should you go safer with a timeless look?
Both options have their benefits and drawbacks worth knowing. This article takes a closer look at these two design options so that you make the best choice.
What Do We Mean by Contemporary and Timeless Design?
Let’s take a moment and define the two terms so that you have a full understanding.
Contemporary design, as the name suggests, forgoes the past and focuses more on the present and, in many cases, the future. These homes embrace the now and the next.
It is the rebel in architecture. It avoids traditional styling, opting for a cleaner, more cutting-edge look. Contemporary homes share features like sleek lines and innovative materials and strive to be unapologetically cool.
Many people think contemporary architecture is synonymous with modern architecture, but contemporary design doesn’t reside in only one style. Even some traditional homes can adopt contemporary styling. The key ingredient is being different in new ways.
Timeless design is the antithesis of a rebel. It is an enduring style that doesn’t make an overt statement or dive into a cutting-edge trend. Like the story of Goldylox and the Three Bears, timeless design isn’t too contemporary and bold or too traditional and stuffy. It sits right in the middle for maximum appeal. It doesn’t want to offend anyone.
Timeless design is a nod to the enduring beauty of well-crafted details. The designs have been time-tested and refined, showcasing traits most people find appealing, often removing the edgier aspects.
Like contemporary design, timeless design isn’t limited to one home style. The architecture can be traditional or modern. However you use it, the style isn’t here to surprise. At the same time, some homes can be quite elegant and appealing.
Contemporary Design Pros and Cons:
Contemporary design’s pros also happen to be cons. Let’s take a look at both.
Pros of Contemporary Design:
It Offers a Cutting-Edge Aesthetic: A contemporary custom home is an ideal canvas for self-expression, and the more expressive it is, the better. It works as a gallery for your cutting-edge style. It is also is expressive and modern in terms of its materials. The homes often highlight industrial and natural materials, often to the extreme.
If this sounds like your lifestyle, then contemporary and modern design is your ideal backdrop.
Contemporary Design is a Technology Wonderland: Contemporary homes embrace today and the future, making them a playground for smart technology. Automated systems, integrated security, and green traits like high energy efficiency are all hallmarks of contemporary homes. It prefers the Jetsons’ version of reality.
It’s Your Home for Creating a Bold Statement: Contemporary homes push the envelope in search of something new. This means your home may be the architectural exclamation mark in your neighborhood. It’s not just a living space; it’s a conversation starter – a creative masterpiece that mirrors your bold outlook on life.
Cons of Contemporary Design:
It Can Be a Trend Trap: Fads often fade, and so do contemporary trends. That vibrant lime-green wall you adore today might be tomorrow’s example of dated design. Be ready to update as time and trends change.
The architectural framework is more challenging to change. It helps to have an expert eye and prior understanding of trends (and their mistakes) to ensure the home stays appealing.
You Risk Sterility: The sleek lines of contemporary design might inadvertently edge out the cozy warmth you seek in a home. Your living space might feel more like a blank canvas than a snug sanctuary.
You May Face Resale Challenges: While a contemporary home can be an eye-catcher, it often sells to fewer buyers than timeless home designs. Reselling could be more of a challenge if potential buyers don’t share your love for edgy aesthetics.
You Could Face Cutting-Edge Issues: There is a famous quote from an owner of a Frank Lloyd Wright home, an architect who excelled at cutting-edge homes for his time. The contemporary home was prone to leaking, to which the owner said, “This is what happens when you leave a work of art out in the rain.” First-edition designs don’t always have the issues worked out, which could cost you.
Timeless Design Pros and Cons
If you don’t like living on the edge, a timeless home is the right place for you. There are also other benefits, as well as drawbacks. Let’s take a look.
Pros of Timeless Design
You Surround Yourself in Eternal Charm: Timeless homes possess an inherent charm that doesn’t go quickly out of style. Elements like intricate molding, wood detailing, and a neutral color palette create an ambiance that’s warm, inviting, and eternally classy.
This Design is Resale Friendly: Your home could be a hot commodity on the real estate market. Timeless designs have broader appeal, attracting buyers seeking enduring aesthetics over fleeting trends.
You Can Still Add Personal Touches: A timeless canvas doesn’t mean you can’t splatter it with your unique strokes. Your home can still showcase your personality through heirlooms, curated décor, and a cozy atmosphere that stands the test of time. Not all museums are cutting-edge. Even simply adding an intriguing paint color will up your look, and paint is easy and cheap to change.
Cons of Timeless Design
You May Face Maintenance Issues: Even though contemporary homes have contemporary maintenance problems, timeless designs can sometimes be safer, but they aren’t void of the problem. Ornate detailing and classic materials can sometimes demand a bit more TLC. You’ll need to watch for wear and tear, investing time and effort into preserving that ageless look.
You Can Only Achieve Limited Modern Flair: A timeless home might not provide the canvas you crave for more up-to-date furniture designs or creative interior design solutions. Joining the appropriate furniture to match the home’s architecture may leave you wanting more regarding the look.
Innovation Inhibition: You have fewer opportunities for futuristic technology integration. Sure, many advancements can be added (inside walls, for example) but in general, a timeless design isn’t at the forefront in accommodating for them.
The Verdict
When it comes to choosing between contemporary and timeless custom homes, the decision rests on your lifestyle, aesthetic needs, and vision for the future. If you’re a boundary-pushing maverick with eyes firmly focused on the future, then contemporary is the one to choose. If you value enduring elegance and easier resale or want your home to be a legacy for generations, timeless design is the better choice.
Whichever path you choose, ensure your home embodies who you are; after all, this is your home. Arbor Builders can make your vision a reality.
