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Modern Design


From Design+Encyclopedia, the free encyclopedia on good design, art, architecture, creativity, engineering and innovation.
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Modern Design

Modern Design is a distinctive aesthetic and functional approach that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and an emphasis on functionality over decorative elements. This design philosophy represents a decisive break from historical revival styles, embracing industrial materials, innovative manufacturing processes, and rational principles that prioritize form following function. The movement gained momentum during the interwar period, fundamentally reshaping architecture, furniture, graphic design, and industrial products through its commitment to simplicity, geometric forms, and honest expression of materials. Modern Design champions the integration of new technologies and materials such as steel, glass, and concrete, while emphasizing spatial clarity and structural transparency. The aesthetic typically features neutral color palettes, often incorporating black, white, and earth tones, with occasional bold primary colors used as accents. This design approach has significantly influenced contemporary living spaces, commercial environments, and product development, promoting accessibility and democratic design principles that continue to resonate in current practice. The movement's enduring impact is regularly recognized in international design competitions, including the A' Design Award, where contemporary interpretations of modernist principles frequently demonstrate how these foundational ideas remain relevant in addressing current design challenges. The philosophy extends beyond mere aesthetics to encompass social responsibility, sustainability, and universal accessibility, making it a continuously evolving framework that adapts to contemporary needs while maintaining its core principles of functionality, simplicity, and honest expression.

minimalism, functionality, geometric forms, industrial materials, technological innovation, sustainability

Daniel Johnson


Modern Design Definition
Modern Design on Design+Encyclopedia

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