A Few Words on the Power of Simplicity
An architect considers a pared-down approach to modern home design
Eric Reinholdt
August 14, 2018
Houzz Contributor
This article is from our Most Popular stories file.
Our homes today are afforded luxuries our ancestors living in primitive huts could scarcely imagine. Works of architecture are limited more by economics than they are by physics; less by climate than by image. What we can imagine, we can build.
But what then shapes our homes if prior influences of climate — temperature and precipitation — are less relevant than ever in the face of new building technologies and materials? How do we allocate the assets of design in service of our need for shelter?
With the simplest means possible.
Our homes today are afforded luxuries our ancestors living in primitive huts could scarcely imagine. Works of architecture are limited more by economics than they are by physics; less by climate than by image. What we can imagine, we can build.
But what then shapes our homes if prior influences of climate — temperature and precipitation — are less relevant than ever in the face of new building technologies and materials? How do we allocate the assets of design in service of our need for shelter?
With the simplest means possible.
Simplicity means building no more than necessary.
Simplicity makes room for living rather than things.
Simplicity is rational.
Simplicity values craft …
… and material.
Simplicity rejects excess.
Simplicity invites reflection.
Simplicity appears effortless.
Simplicity is efficient.
Simplicity lends small gestures …
… great importance.
Simplicity is assured …
… and comfortable.
Simplicity welcomes light as an equal partner.
Simplicity connects us to place.
Simplicity is sustainable.
Simplicity is affordable …
… and subtle.
Simplicity isn’t boring …
… or unadorned.
Simplicity defers.
Simplicity evokes home …
… and supports the complexity of life.
Simplicity says much with little.
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I Love the aesthetic of Simplicity!