Modern architecture is generally characterized by
simplification of form and creation of ornament from the structure and
theme of the building. It is a term applied to an overarching movement,
with its exact definition and scope varying widely. In a broader sense, early modern architecture began at the turn of the
20th century with efforts to reconcile the principles underlying
architectural design with rapid technological advancement and the modernization
of society. It would take the form of numerous movements, schools of
design, and architectural styles, some in tension with one another, and
often equally defying such classification.
The concept of modernism would be a central theme in these efforts. Gaining popularity after the Second World War,
architectural modernism was adopted by many influential architects and
architectural educators, and continues as a dominant architectural style
for institutional and corporate buildings into the 21st century.
Modernism eventually generated reactions, most notably Postmodernism which sought to preserve pre-modern elements, while Neomodernism emerged as a reaction to Postmodernism.Notable architects important to the history and development of the modernist movement include Frank Lloyd Wright, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Walter Gropius, Le Corbusier, Oscar Niemeyer and Alvar Aalto.
