Chapter 1 Architectural Styles 23
Postmodern
Postmodern architecture fi rst appeared in the
1950s, but did not become a recognized movement
until the late 1970s. Postmodernism marked
the return of embellishment, and injected wit
and character into architecture. It was a direct
response to the sterility of the International
style. Postmodernism reintroduced decoration.
Suggestion and adornment returned to the fore-
front, replacing the forcefully stark approach
of Internationalism. Appearance was no longer
clearly defi ned by realistic requirements.
Postmodern style was generally characterized
by the use of sculptural forms, ornaments, and
materials to make a “statement” about the owner
or architect. Postmodernism was very individu-
alistic—no two homes of this style were ever the
same. See Figure 1-26.
Neomodern
Neomodern architecture embodies the same
basic principles associated with the International
style. Buildings designed in the neomodern
style emphasize form and function and reject
the use of decoration and elements borrowed
from past architectural styles. Neomodernism
emerged in the late 20th century as a response to
postmodernism and revitalized the “modern”
architectural style.
Steve Holderfield/Shutterstock.com
Figure 1-25. Most Ranch homes today have a garage, and many borrow elements from other architectural
styles, such as the front porch on this home.
bbbb/Shutterstock.com
Figure 1-26. In direct opposition to the International
style, the Postmodern style introduced humor and
fantasy into architecture.
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