Classical Greco Roman architecture is such an enduring style that it can still be found in almost a third of public buildings in America. While traditional columns, domes and arches adorn a number of traditional courthouses and other government buildings, modern architecture also borrows these and other design features from a number of different historical and artistic eras. Whether you are restoring the original features in a period property or adding classical elements to a new build, you can find inspiration from iconic architecture that will not only honor architectural history but also enhance the look of your home.

Incorporating Classical Elements of Iconic Architecture into Modern Home Design

Creating a Distinctive Silhouette

Around the world, landmark buildings and monuments not only represent history and cultural heritage but these historical buildings showcase architectural creativity that can still influence more modern buildings today. Often, one of the most striking and defining aspects of an historical building is its silhouette, and many buildings including iconic temples in Asia, fairytale European chateaux and the pyramids of ancient civilisations have instantly recognisable outlines. These can serve as inspiration for modern homes through simple additions such as crenellations on an exterior wall or the construction of whole A frame homes with dramatic and steeply angled sides.

Borrowing from Classical Architecture

Look around any major city and you are likely to spot examples of historical architecture that has been heavily influenced by ancient civilizations. The use of columns originated in Egypt but quickly spread to neighboring Mediterranean countries, and they can still be found today in a range of buildings from formal courthouses to modern homes. As an architectural element in the latter, columns are commonly used to create imposing entrance porches where they are used both as structural posts and for decorative interest. Another classical architectural feature is an arch which can soften the hard lines of a modern house and make the transition between rooms more interesting.

Integrating Modernist Features

From the Sydney Opera House to the Guggenheim Museum in New York, modernist architecture tends to feature geometric shapes, clean lines and a minimalist style. One of the most famous modernist architects, Le Corbusier, used a set of five design principles in his plans. These included the incorporation of uninterrupted ribbons of large windows, which is a great way to bring more natural light into any building project.  As an architectural style, Art Deco combines modern and traditional design through mixing minimalist and austere forms with rich embellishments. The era saw the construction of a number of theaters and cinemas and adding bold shapes, fluted details and sunburst designs to a modern home’s exterior is a way to incorporate the features of these glamorous Art Deco buildings.

While the classic and traditional styles of architecture enhance easily recognisable historical buildings, they still influence the creation of modern properties. Whether you are renovating an older property or remodeling a new build, incorporating period features and elements from artistic eras can help to elevate your home.