Modern architecture is one of the most in-demand architectural styles today for the construction of villas, chalets, or single-family homes on the Costa Blanca. This term is very broad and designates the set of styles that have developed in the 20th century and that continue to be in demand today by our clients. To know a little more about the beginning of this style, it is necessary to name one of its founders: Le Corbusier. He was a French-born architect known as the main protagonist of the international architectural renovation of the 20th century. He understood that the house should be at the service of life: “The house is a machine for living in, baths, sun, hot and cold water, temperature adjustable at will, food preservation, hygiene, beauty through convenient proportions.” Corbusier’s approaches lead us to geometric order to achieve what he called “pure volumes.” His goal was to fuse nature with technological development. This goal is and remains one of the basic principles of Arquifach, and we apply it to a unique environment such as the Costa Blanca. In this article, you will find key design elements that cannot be missed in your chalet or villa if what you want is a modern architectural style. We will translate Corbusier’s advice into today’s functional design.
1. Materials and technology at the service of functionality
Every modern architectural design is distinguished by the use of materials such as
steel, reinforced concrete, and glass. These materials are common due to their efficiency and adaptability, being usable in different spaces and with different functions, indoors as beams or columns, and outdoors as part of the facades. Although we talk about concrete as a basic material for construction, new patents have been developed that allow it to be integrated into design as something innovative. An example is translucent concrete, created by architect
Áron Losonczi, which allows seeing silhouettes and shadows regardless of thickness, as it is made with fiber optics and mass concrete. Glass in combination with carbon fiber is one of our favorite materials because they are very versatile and allow maintaining simplicity while accentuating the modern air of the design.
2. Exterior indoors, and interior outdoors
As Corbusier rightly says, windows must be continuous. This is an idea we love for one important reason: light. Large windows let in light, a valuable resource when minimizing costs and increasing well-being. On the Costa Blanca, more specifically in Alicante, we enjoy 300 days of sunshine a year. Our designs contemplate the environment as an indispensable part of the process.
It is no surprise that the designs we customize for each client at Arquifach can end up having more glass than opaque material overall. Another of our maxims when designing is continuity. Seamlessly integrating interiors with exteriors. Avoiding barriers and using clean lines that do not alter the order, avoiding excesses to capture the essence of the interior. Open surfaces free of clutter, using neutral base colors combined with natural textures and materials.
3. Geometry as the basis of design
Those of you who have followed our career for a long time know that geometric architecture is part of our essence. We respect geometry, making simple and very specific strokes because architecture cannot subsist without geometry as its foundation. The modular forms we start from aim to present greater harmony, symmetry, and plasticity.
4. Open concept
The absence of obstacles and walls in rooms has several advantages. Among the most important we find
the integration of light and landscape within the home. There are many detractors who think that in this type of space, chaos and lack of privacy reign. But far from reality, there are many solutions to divide and separate the different areas such as level changes, furniture, architectural elements, or partial divisions with materials like wood or glass.
Arquifach: Architecture Studio Altea
If you are thinking of building a custom home,
contact Arquifach, Moraira architecture studio. It has a great team with over 40 years of experience.
