Blending of Architectural Styles: One of a Kind Design Artistry

Throughout the years there have been plenty of styles that have garnered a following. These styles include the pillared Neoclassic, the American Colonial, and the ornate Victorian to name a few. All of these styles beg the question, for what will this era be remembered? At Riverbend, we would suggest this era may be known, not for one specific style, but for a blending of many. We have also noticed that many of today’s popular styles use modern design and timber framing as the glue to so elegantly binds them together. Allow us to illustrate this point by diving deeper into some of the popular styles and how they blend in today’s homes.

The Modern Influence

The first, and perhaps most influential, architectural design in use to blend styles today is modern design. Contrary to popular belief, a modern style home is not synonymous with contemporary. The modern style was created during the first half of the 20^th century as designers made a move toward simplicity. It emphasized clean, simple lines, minimalism, asymmetry, and oversized glass windows. The modern style focuses on function and reconnecting its inhabitants with nature. Meanwhile, contemporary architecture does not cling to a time period or particular style. It ebbs and flows with whatever is popular at the time and pulls inspiration from all kinds of designs.

While there continue to be a number of people who are building truly mid-century modern homes, many others are taking the most appealing architectural aspects of these homes and incorporating them with other architectural styles they love. In this way, modern architecture is playing a major role of redefining old styles to bring them up-to-date. In many cases, these homes feature open living areas, flatter rooflines, larger windows, and simplistic colors pallets. Overall, designers incorporate modern design to clean up, pare down, and open up these homes. It is in this environment that designers welcome timber framing both structurally and decoratively. Where modern design can become stark and cold, timber framing can smooth the stark edges with warm timber tones.

The Modern American Farmhouse

The American farmhouse is one architectural style that has benefited most from incorporating modern architectural and timber frame influences. The Farmhouse style is recognizable for its practicality, abundant use of wood, simple lines, outdoor living spaces, and adaptability. Crafted for more agrarian needs, this style of home was meant to provide easy construction with an often boxy layout. Timber framing blends beautifully into this environment by providing unique character and warmth to the space whether in decorative beams or structural rafters. Meanwhile, modern accents abound in a careful balance of minimalism combined with practicality and the use of neutrals with occasional bold accents such as black window frames. Our exciting new plans artfully weave practicality and unique style throughout the home while paying homage to the traditional farmhouse feel.

The Sturdy Mountain Style

Homes that incorporate mountain style architectural elements naturally fit with timber framing. The hallmark of this style is its usage of log and/or timber materials, and structural supports. It is also recognizable for its large decks, large windows, and sturdy, rustic style. In this home, timber framing enhances the rustic charm of rooms while also opening up large gathering areas. Some of these homes bend to modern influence by incorporating flat roofs or a full wall of expansive windows. Our newly designed Mountain homes artistically capitalize on the beauty of rustic timbers to create an open and inviting atmosphere.

The Uniqueness of the Craftsman Style

While there are major trademarks of a Craftsman style home, it is generally recognized for its uniqueness and hand-crafted details. Designed for the average working person, these homes focused on simplicity and practicality with a unique flair. Defining features include exposed rafters, pillared entries, natural materials, built-in storage, and nooks. While the original Craftsman style included multiple, small rooms throughout the home, implementing modern design principles create a more open layout. While the uniqueness of smaller rooms is changed, introducing timber framing provides the creativity, warmth, and artistry this style of home craves. Additionally, creatively using the space to add storage options speaks to the new direction of Riverbend’s designs. Our new Craftsman homes echo the artistry and creativity of their predecessors while utilizing modern open areas and larger, more abundant windows to bring in natural light.

In Summary

While each of these styles is unique in their history and design, they all have any incredibly beautiful way of blending with modern design and timber framing to create something completely new. Together, these styles create much more practical, welcoming homes that are not only liveable, but usable.

Blending architectural styles is a new and exciting way to think about your home. However, the key to achieving a beautiful blend of these styles is by working with an experienced designer . It is easy to throw elements of different styles together; it is a challenge to do it well. That is why the Riverbend designers work hard to find the best balance of popular architectural styles to create elegant artistry in your home’s design. At the same time, they are creating a home that is liveable. They also take care to include unique features like built-in cabinetry, window seats, bookshelves, and plenty of storage space. When it comes to blending styles, you can trust that Riverbend will design a home that is both beautiful, and practical.