At the end of the 70s, modernism was replaced by a new high-tech, practical high-tech style. Its early movements are considered to be the end of the late era of modernism. The first building built in this style was the Pompidou Center in Paris (pictured below), and the founders can be called famous architects: Richard Rogers, Norman Foster and Renzo Piano.
Then the trend spread in the UK, and later throughout the world. In the Russian real estate market, this design is now just beginning to become more and more popular.
High-tech is a very unusual style and is not suitable for every property. In addition, in its pure form, it can hardly be called cozy due to the lack of decor, monochromatic colors of cold shades, and a vast abundance of metal and glass, therefore, when creating architecture and interiors, notes of other styles are often added to it in order to achieve a soft and attractive design .
History of development
High-tech, which took shape in late modernism, in the 70s of the last century, became a logical continuation of earlier architectural styles. The dynamic and vibrant style was to everyone’s taste, and within 10 years the original buildings became the decoration of cities around the world.
British architect Richard Rogers and his Italian colleague Renzo Piano played a major role in the development of the techno style. Together they designed the Georges Pompidou National Center for Art and Culture in Paris. A huge glass parallelepiped with communications brought outside and painted in multi-colored paints at first seemed like an extravagant building, and later became a source of pride for Parisians.
Center Georges Pompidou Source spo.org.tr
In the 80s, high-tech buildings acquired a special monumentality and a characteristic “mirror” appearance, such as the Pacific Design Center in the USA. Today, the downtown of any self-respecting city has a recognizable architectural appearance with clear lines. Famous buildings in the high-tech style include undoubted architectural masterpieces: the building of the Swiss-Re insurance company (the famous “Gherkin”) and City Hall in London, the building of the Bank of Hong Kong and Shanghai in Hong Kong. All these buildings are projects of the British architect Norman Foster, the main theorist and practitioner of the style.
Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank Building (HSBC Building) Source www.desperately-seeking-adventure.co.uk
Main features
High-tech, sometimes classified as late modernism, is characterized by the following features:
- A pragmatic approach to building design. The emphasis in space planning is on functionality, which results in the predominance of straight lines and the borrowing of simple forms of constructivism and cubism.
- Using the most technologically advanced solutions in construction.
- Preference for technological materials: concrete, metal structures, glass, plastic.
- The color scheme is determined by the materials; these are white, gray and black, shades of metals: aluminum, steel, copper.
- Functional elements (stairs, elevators, ventilation systems) are not masked, but emphasized - taken outside the building.
Maximum practicality Source pinterest.com
- Wide use of mirror surfaces and functional, multi-level lighting using local lighting. This technique visually increases the living space.
- Almost complete absence of decorative elements; sometimes strict geometric lines give way to streamlined and futuristic shapes.
High-tech is an excellent solution for offices
For office premises, the Hi-Tech style is a godsend. Its brevity and functionality perfectly create the necessary working atmosphere. Many directors of various enterprises choose this particular design direction due to the fact that the interiors look both simple and elegant. The presentability and solidity of such offices will amaze any VIP client.
In office premises, the main emphasis is on high technological developments. You can complement the interior with the help of original partitions made of glass and metal with lighting. Expensive furniture of simple design will look presentable. All elements together emphasize the status of an enterprise or firm.
Modern high-tech: style directions
The high-tech style in architecture, which arose under the influence of industrial architecture, has today been divided into several directions:
- Industrial high-tech. The building has a "factory" appearance. The decor is communications: pipelines, ventilation shafts. Industrial elements are welcome (rivets, ceilings, fittings, metal stairs).
Recognizable “factory” look Source pinterest.com
- Geometric. More than others, he uses the developments of constructivism and cubism. The shape of the building shows a combination of simple geometric shapes. Additionally, cables, complex frame systems, cable-stayed structures, and soft shells are used.
The kingdom of regular forms Source skalice.ru
- Bionic (eco). The most unusual and sophisticated direction, in which rounded shapes and flexible lines are allowed. Copies the structure of living organisms. Buildings in the bio-tech style can resemble an egg, a wave, a honeycomb, a cocoon, a drop of water, or a shell. Although much attention is paid to environmental safety and the microclimate of the house, bio-tech ideas are rarely used in private architecture.
Back to nature Source infourok.ru
- Slick-tech. A separate trend is the creation of a glossy facade surface. The cladding is carried out with large-format mirror or translucent panels, which combine effectively with concrete, metal, and brick. The house becomes like a crystal and acquires a respectable appearance.
Panoramic glazing is not harmful Source trendsideas.com
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in the construction of turnkey country houses
High-tech in private housing construction
Private houses are rarely designed in a pure techno style; it is usually supplemented with elements of minimalism. Moreover, the house will not have enough external signs of high-tech - shape, glossy facade and strict decor. It is necessary to use the achievements of modern science: elements of a smart home and energy-saving technologies. A modern private house in high-tech style has the following features:
- Simple geometric shapes at the heart of the building, straight lines of the facade, functionality, restraint in color.
- Interesting design solutions: glass roof, large panoramic windows for unobstructed access to sunlight and a feeling of spaciousness.
- Flat roof, lightweight or exploitable. Solar panels are installed on the roof or a terrace is placed.
A flat roof is a valuable resource Source archilovers.com
- Most typical projects are built from aerated concrete, brick or frame; For facade finishing, cladding panels, plaster, and stone are chosen.
- Use of energy-saving devices: solar panels, wind generators.
- The appropriate setting: a strict but sophisticated landscape.
Pros and cons of style
All design solutions designed to ensure a high quality of life for the owners are among the advantages of private houses in a techno style. The living quarters are spacious and comfortable, with enough space for large furniture and appliances. Despite its undoubted advantages, the style is criticized for the following qualities:
- The priority of functionality gives the interior the features of an office or industrial premises. High-tech is not suitable for lovers of cozy decor with an abundance of textiles.
Strict beauty Source dom-expert.by
- A turnkey project requires serious financial investments. Panoramic windows, futuristic furniture and smart home components are not the most budget-friendly option.
High-tech features create an atmosphere in the living space that is far from familiar. Therefore, the classic techno style is most often diluted with details from other directions. Thus, more diverse and bright colors of minimalism are used for interior decoration. The use of natural materials and unusual forms of modern styles (Scandinavian, loft) allows you to soften the perception of space.
High-tech kitchen with a touch of fusion Source decorateme.com
Good results are obtained with the inclusion of eclectic elements; At the same time, it is important to choose discreet finishes and items united by color or texture. High-tech and avant-garde combine well; For decoration you can use paintings, clocks and lighting fixtures in this style.
What should a modern kitchen be like?
The kitchen is a room in which there are always a lot of household appliances. For this reason, most people choose Hi-Tech style for decoration, and it is not necessary to pay attention to the size of the room. This design direction will allow you to harmoniously arrange all the functional elements and pieces of furniture so that the kitchen is not only original, but also functional. High-tech perfectly combines materials such as glass and plastic. It is recommended to choose them when decorating a room. For example, tempered glass panels are ideal for decorating a work area.
Don't forget about the lighting, there should be a lot of it. Chandeliers and lamps must not only be placed on the ceiling or walls, but also built into the furniture. It is recommended to select monochromatic facades for kitchen units. Currently, there are many pieces of furniture that have a glossy surface. And in order to add a touch of brightness and dynamism, you can decorate one wall (usually near the dining table) in bright colors.
Techno style in the interior
If the high-tech architectural style consists of using the latest engineering solutions and technological materials, then high-tech in the interior is an emphasis on advanced technologies and modern household appliances. Housing is equipped not only with solar panels, but also with all sorts of gadgets that eliminate routine tasks: control sensors, smart sockets, weather sensors, air and water filters.
It's all about technology Source hayatouki.com
The simplicity and ergonomics of the decor is complemented by the choice of appropriate furniture. For her, the main criterion remains functionality, which is expressed in an extremely laconic form. There are no restrictions on color - it can be bright. Sliding wardrobes, built-in wardrobes, and shelves in niches fit harmoniously into the high-tech environment. The upholstery of upholstered furniture is plain thick fabric or soft leather. When decorating rooms, the following techniques are used:
- Living room. There should be little furniture, and built-in furniture should have the same shade as the walls. Glossy laminate, tiles, parquet boards or linoleum are suitable as floor coverings. For the walls, choose plaster or non-woven wallpaper, which can be painted over time. The ceiling is slatted, suspended or suspended, often with spot lighting.
Living room with fireplace Source m.yukle.mobi
- Bedroom. It looks not only functional, but also elegant, thanks to the calm colors of the walls and multi-level lighting with adjustable brightness and shade of the lamps. The floor is decorated with a discreet carpet or a high-pile carpet, and the windows have horizontal blinds or dark curtains. Cozy details include abstract panels and monochrome photos on the walls, as well as richer shades of decor.
Eco-tech in the bedroom Source boxtoner.ru
- Kitchen. The perfect place to recreate the original design. A stylish environment is achieved using wear-resistant high-tech materials; preference is given to plastic, aluminum, glass, stainless steel. The standard of style is a room with special modular furniture and all the required equipment; A good move is the use of LED accent lighting.
Comfort and originality Source www.tenkawalekpodlogi.pl
- Bathroom. For finishing, glossy monochromatic tiles in monochrome shades are used, and accessories are selected in the same color. A modern shower stall, open shelving and shelves made of frosted or colored glass will look stylish. The impression is completed by a tempered glass washbasin and LED lighting.
High-tech bathroom Source westgarthsocial.com
- Hallway. Functionality is the motto of the hallway. Here we need practical solutions: good lighting, compact furniture, mirror and glossy surfaces that increase space. A good option is a wardrobe with frosted glass doors and chrome fittings.
The importance of mirrors in a small space Source dekormyhome.ru
A high-tech bathroom is a laconic solution
Laconic style is a beneficial solution for the bathroom. It, like the hallway, is rarely large. The same Hi-Tech style will save the situation. The predominance of glass and chrome surfaces will visually add the necessary volume. The room will look more spacious and brighter. To create a stylish design, designers recommend installing a square or rectangular sink. Glass options will look great. Plain ceramic tiles are suitable for finishing walls, ceilings and floors. Don't forget about the mirror. It simultaneously performs several functions. Accents can be small details of bright colors, such as red, yellow, blue.
