Modernism in the interior: a simple guide to a complex style

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The word “modern” translated from English means “modern”; therefore, the modern style in the interior is subject to dual designation. Some designers argue that this direction should correspond to the latest trends in apartment design, others say that it is a classic.

Both options are characterized by an abundance of decor, the use of wood and glass, and the absence of straight lines. Despite the expense of furnishing a modern home, many people prefer this particular design direction, because such an apartment reflects the high status and good taste of its owners. Let's look at the basic principles of this style, and you will also learn how to independently design an apartment in the spirit of Art Nouveau style!

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Content:

• 1. History of the Art Nouveau style
• 2. Features
• 3. Art Nouveau finishing options
• 4. Art Nouveau furniture
• 5. Art Nouveau decor options
• 6. What colors to use in the interior
• 7. Lighting
• 8. Renovation in Art Nouveau style
• 9. Kitchen (with photo)
• 10. Living room (with photo)
• 11. Bedroom (with photo)
• 12. Bathroom (with photo)

The interior style “modernism” is created as follows:

• The walls
  are often multi-level, created using all kinds of panels, hidden cabinets, recesses that can be used to store necessary things or interior items. The color scheme is calm tones; the accent can then be placed with the help of paintings, carpet, curtains, pillows and other accessories. More often, just painting the walls is used, sometimes plain wallpaper is used. Decoration materials: aluminum panels, metal and plastic fittings.
• The ceiling
  is also multi-level. This is where you can show your imagination - create asymmetrical shapes, uneven lines, use mirrors or several light sources for decoration.
• The choice of floor design
  depends on the room itself. For living rooms, they often choose parquet with carpet or carpeting, for the bathroom and kitchen - tiles with a strict ornament. The same applies to parquet. It is better to choose a monochromatic carpet, a pattern - any geometric shapes, or, conversely, a bright one to create contrast.

• Furniture for the modernist style
  - any new mass production. Furniture stores today are rich in all kinds of sets, separate fittings, and finished products, from which choosing something suitable is not difficult. Furniture made of plastic, metal, and artificial leather is mainly used. You can choose chairs or a bed of an unusual asymmetrical shape; it is better to choose materials in contrast with the main decoration of the room. By the way, textiles in the “modernism” style are mainly used on sitting surfaces - beds, sofas, armchairs, so you should think carefully about the choice of material and color of bedspreads and pillows.
• Decorative items for the modernism style
  can be chosen taking into account the taste of the home owner. It can be a variety of things. In addition to modern household items, the interior can be decorated with figurines of unusual curves, abstract paintings, topiary, and vases of non-standard shapes. The main materials of accessories are glass, polymer clay, plastic, metal. Large bouquets of fresh flowers in transparent vases greatly enliven the space.
• Lighting in the modernist style
  should be multifunctional. Usually these are unusual chandeliers and pendant lamps. Sometimes spotlights are chosen as the main light, hidden in the levels of the ceiling, walls, and sometimes the floor. This can apply to any room - both the living room and the bathroom.

Since modernism still has an “advanced meaning,” it is worth talking about the technical side of the interior. In a “modernism” style house, the equipment should be of the latest generation, it is even advisable to use the “smart home” system, but this still falls into the category of “expensive pleasure”. Modernism is more suitable for organized, active people. If the owner chose a similar design style for his home, he will have to change his usual way of life - avoiding stereotypes, practical use of space, getting rid of unnecessary things.

History of the Art Nouveau style

Modernism in the interior emerged at the end of the 19th century. In different countries this movement had its own name: France - art nouveau, USA - Tiffany, Spain - modernism, etc. Also known is Northern Art Nouveau, which developed in St. Petersburg. However, this direction is considered the initial stage of the formation of the Scandinavian style.

The new style trend differed from previous design trends in the curvature of lines, the use of floral patterns, and the rejection of symmetry. At first, this style was not popular; only certain creative individuals resorted to such home arrangement.

An extraordinary office in the Art Nouveau style was conducive to creativity

It was only in the first decade of the twentieth century that the style was appreciated. Many representatives of the upper class and middle class decorated the premises in their homes in a new manner. However, the outbreak of the First World War shook the position of the rather financially expensive style.

Art Nouveau style in its classical sense

Today, Art Nouveau is considered one of the most complex stylistic movements, because it is sometimes confused with Art Deco and Functionalism. A room decorated in this stylistic trend looks sophisticated and luxurious.

Historical background and difference between concepts

The modern style (as “modern” is translated from French) loudly declared itself at the turn of the 19th-20th centuries, covering almost all areas of creative activity: from interiors to painting, sculpture, printing and jewelry technology. In each country, the modern style acquired its own characteristics and received different names. In France it is known as art nouveau or art nouveau (literally “new art”). In America it is sometimes called Tiffany (in honor of the artist Louis Comfort Tiffany). Jugendstil (“youth style”) became widespread in Germany. Liberty (“freedom”) - among the Italians. In Switzerland it is the "spruce style" (or "herringbone style").

Possessing many nuances, modernity has a striking unifying feature: the harmonious unity of all objects surrounding a person. Made in accordance with natural aesthetics, Art Nouveau interiors at the same time have high functionality, which is expressed in the use of innovative techniques and practical materials.

Home mini-office in modern style

Difficulties in translation: modern or not

It would seem that everything is clear: the time frame of modernity is roughly outlined, its features are clearly expressed. However, because of the name of this style, there is confusion and different points of view regarding what exactly is called “modern style”. Even famous designers and fashion historians argue about this.

Classical modernism was considered “modern” when it arose, about a century ago.

Chandelier with a futuristic Artichoke design

In the 50-60s of the 20th century, the style was rethought and simplified. Mid-century modern acquired more laconic forms, opted for less intricate decor and even greater practicality. Having adopted from the classic modern style a love for natural materials, a natural palette, functionality, as well as a craving for solidity and status combined with bold design techniques, and even some futurism.

But that's not all. Some design experts express the opinion that modernism is not at all a set of specific decorative techniques and stylistic features, but the very concept of modern and relevant design. And therefore it should not be limited by time frames. A should denote the style that is most relevant “here and now.”

The most common opinion, however, is to still classify the classic version of the style as modern, as well as its rethought version - mid-century modern. Modern style (in its current understanding) is contemporary (which, by the way, also translates as “modern”).

Ironic design of a chest of drawers with a touch of modern style

Modernism in art

Symbolism, a movement with mythological, allegorical overtones, which became very popular at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, had a great influence on Art Nouveau painting and sculpture. In their paintings, Art Nouveau artists sought to ennoble reality and give it more romantic images. Elongated figures stand out especially against the background of single-color surfaces. In literature, the modern style also replaced classical works. The books began to raise more philosophical questions, with deep insight into the inner world of the characters, and sometimes simply with a description of the “stream of consciousness.” In music, modernism involves the use of unexpected sound effects and a combination of different genres.

Stylish seating area with a nod to Art Nouveau

Modernism in architecture

The architecture of the modern style is distinguished by the desire for external decorativeness. It also avoids right angles and lines, and plant-themed decorations can often be found on the facades. During the construction of buildings, stained glass windows, forged metal, and untreated natural stone were actively used. Great importance was attached to the interior design - the rooms “flowing” into each other helped to emphasize the beauty of the Art Nouveau style in the interior. The space was visually enlarged due to arched openings, large mirrors on the walls, multi-level ceilings and light colors of decoration.

Features of Russian Art Nouveau

The creators of Art Nouveau in Russia paid tribute to folklore and Slavic flavor. Here, like in no other country in the world, provincial “wooden” Art Nouveau is widespread, and the subjects of the paintings are closely related to Russian fairy tales and epics (remember the legendary “Demon” by M. Vrubel or “The Bird of Gamayun” by V. Vasnetsov). In big cities, the modern style in the interiors of houses amazed with its thoughtful luxury. The decor flowing from the floor to the walls and ceiling, elegant flights of stairs with intricate railings, panels with carvings - all this created a complex composition that could be looked at endlessly.

Examples of Russian Art Nouveau, which Muscovites have probably seen more than once while walking around the city (and other Russians - in replicated photos), are the apartment building of the Trinity Church on Gryazekh, the Gorky museum-apartment (Ryabushinsky's mansion), the mansion of the merchant Nosov, the apartment building of the merchant Filatova.

Peculiarities

Modernism in its classical sense is quite expensive financially and difficult to implement, so designers often suggest choosing a decorative version of this trend. In this case, the housing should have several basic modern elements.

Main distinctive features:

• ✔ no angles or straight lines
  - all shapes should be smooth, asymmetrical. Often houses have unusual wooden staircases, bas-reliefs on the walls, carved elements;

• ✔ floral pattern
  - images of flowers and other various plants are found on wallpaper, upholstery of sofas and chairs, in the design of the ceiling and floor;

• ✔ stained glass
  - lamp shades can consist of them; stained glass is also used as decorative elements in stairs and partitions;

• ✔ wide doors in the form of an arch or rectangle
  - if space allows, it is better to opt for double-leaf models. Doors are decorated with mosaics or decorated with glass;

• ✔ stylized furniture
  - look at sofas, tables and chairs on curved wooden legs. A guest room in Art Nouveau style is always complemented by two armchairs and a sofa upholstered to match the walls.

Furniture with long and curved legs is a distinctive feature of the style.

An important feature is the combination of artificial and natural materials. You can use wood, stained and transparent glass, forging elements that repeat the floral pattern.

To create a stylized interior, large country houses and spacious apartments or studios with an unusual layout are suitable. Thanks to thoughtful design, the irregular shape of a room, door or window opening will become a unique highlight in a modern room.

Who is the style suitable for?

Interiors in the modern style are chosen by creative people who want to emphasize the individuality of their taste and the complexity of their nature. It was in this concept that the leader of Danish design Arne Jacobsen, the iconic figure in British history Charles Rennie Mackintosh, and the “architect of God” the Spaniard Antonio Gaudi worked. If you do not accept monotonous canons, you are attracted by smooth silhouettes and closeness to nature, and are ready to invest in designer furniture and accessories - then a beautiful and sophisticated design made in the Art Nouveau style will be an excellent choice for decorating your living space.

ADVICE. To implement classic modernism, a country house or apartment with an open plan is best suited. Owners of urban small cars should pay attention to the more restrained and laconic mid-century modern.

Living room in a modern style interspersed with art nouveau

Art Nouveau finishing options

An apartment in the Art Nouveau style has light, discreet walls in pastel colors that do not distract attention from the main decorative elements. Choose matte shades, without excess shine. You can complement the walls with floral ornaments.

Stucco in the decoration of walls or ceilings, carving in furniture design

There are several options for wall decoration in the Art Nouveau style:

• ✔ painting in one tone
  - milky, beige shades. Thanks to this solution, you can visually expand the space. In addition, the advantages of painting include resistance to moisture and ease of maintenance. Before applying paint, it is necessary to prepare the surface; it must be perfectly flat, otherwise all the imperfections will only stand out more;

• ✔ wallpapering
  is one of the most common options. However, wallpaper must be combined with painted walls. Only one wall or part of it can be decorated with wallpaper. If you adhere to this principle, you will be able to adequately zone the space;

• ✔ installation of wooden panels
  - done only at the bottom of the walls, mainly in passers-by and bathrooms, while the top is finished with wallpaper. This decoration option looks very impressive. Before installation, the panels must be treated with an anti-corrosion agent to extend their service life. To reduce repair costs, wood-look porcelain stoneware panels are sometimes used;

• ✔ decorative plaster
  - most often used to create bas-reliefs rather than to cover the entire wall area. Using textured plaster, you can create three-dimensional paintings with ornate lines.

Decorative design of the ceiling is an obligatory feature of the Art Nouveau style in its classic version

You can choose laminate, parquet, or tiles as flooring. It is better to use natural materials. You can highlight a relaxation area using a soft carpet. It is better not to use patterns on the floor, but if such a desire arises, then it is better to leave the walls without decoration. Otherwise, floral patterns on the wallpaper and patterns on the parquet boards will oversaturate the space.

Art Nouveau decoration involves the active use of floral patterns

Color spectrum

The main source of inspiration is nature, so colors, like materials, should be natural. Bright and rich shades are allowed only as small accents.

The main palette is brown, olive, marsh, grass green and gold. The second common option is a combination of lilac, pink, gray, smoky and silver.

Cream, peach, sand, pearl and creamy shades best convey smooth lines and visually increase space.

Art Nouveau furniture

For the manufacture of furniture, natural wood is used, often in dark shades, which is decorated with carvings. The color can contrast with the shade of the walls or floor and be combined with the tone of other wooden elements. The amount of furniture directly depends on the purpose of the room. So in the kitchen, the central element should be an oblong or round dining table. It is complemented by high chairs with soft upholstery and carved backs.

Art Nouveau furniture is most often made of dark wood

Furniture in the Art Nouveau style has the following qualities: functionality, compactness, whimsical shape. It is located in the central part of the room, leaving as much free space as possible.

Furniture for the living room in the Art Nouveau style is arranged in the shape of the letter P or L. The central place is occupied by a sofa with light upholstery, and soft armchairs can be placed next to it. A coffee table is most often made of wood, but the use of forging and glass is acceptable.

With the help of sofas and armchairs you can easily zone the space of a large room

The main element of furniture in the bedroom is the bed, so you should choose it responsibly. The headboard is decorated with carvings, forging or coarse plain fabric. It is better to choose a classic hinged wardrobe, however, a stylized wardrobe with smooth lines will look appropriate. To create the ideal storage system, use the 3D Cabinet Designer.

A bed in a bedroom in Art Nouveau style must be large with a high carved headboard

Furniture selection

The smooth contour of the furniture set in the style in question seems to invite guests to relax. The absence of sharp corners, natural materials for manufacturing, the presence of asymmetry, muted color finishes - all this contributes to a comfortable stay in the room. At the same time, cabinet furniture stretches upward, like all the plants in the images. The vertical dominant, combined with bizarre forms, maximally expresses the idea of ​​modernity.

The amount of furniture paraphernalia depends on the functional purpose of the room. The need for free space eliminates clutter in the home. At the same time, the presence of upholstered furniture does not belong to modernity. It is covered with textile elements, fitting into the overall picture of the style. The wood base of the furniture comes first. It is advisable to avoid a large number of corners and focus on elegant armrests.

Art Nouveau decor options

An abundance of various decorative elements is allowed, the main thing is to know when to stop.

There are many options for suitable accessories:

• ✔ green indoor plants in ceramic pots;
• ✔ glass, wooden and metal figurines, photo frames;
• ✔ stained glass bedside lamps;
• ✔ unusual paintings;
• ✔ mirrors in forged frames;
• ✔ antique candlesticks for three candles;
• ✔ floor lamps with colored lampshades;
• ✔ ceramic or glass vases of elongated shape with smooth curves.

In the bedroom, you can place a small carved box on the dressing table for small items or jewelry. Stylized watches also look very nice. They have a non-standard design, most often made in black or gold. You can place a glass bowl of fruit on the dining table, and small pillows in a contrasting shade on the sofa.

Arches and stained glass windows are a classic way to decorate an interior in Art Nouveau style

Exterior nuances

The focus on external expressiveness, characteristic of modern design, gave rise to the beauty and picturesqueness of the facades of buildings built in this style. Depending on the geographical location and mentality of the country’s inhabitants, this may be expressed in the following details:

• metal frames, many glass inserts, ceramics - in France;
• wave-shaped facades, “dragon” tiles, spiers and turrets - in Spain;
• massive stained glass windows - in America;
• asymmetry, different textures of cladding, a lot of wood - in Russia.

Accessory for furnishings in modern style

What colors to use in the interior

The colors inherent in modernism are conventionally divided into basic, active and additional. The first include those colors that form the basis of the room and are a kind of background - sand, white, peach, cream.

The color range is limited to calm natural shades - brown, ivory, green, yellow and others. It is worth giving preference to muted tones.

After choosing the main color, you can decide on active color elements that will contrast with the overall background. Most often they are wooden tables, parquet flooring, chairs, stairs, brown or pale yellow sofa upholstery. To dilute the severity of the interior, additional color accents are used: terracotta sofa cushions, indoor plants, pale burgundy textiles, etc.

The contrast of light finishes and dark furniture is one of the key features of the style.

Bathroom

To decorate this room, two layers are used: background and decorative. The first implies a gradation of color, and the second - an unusual texture of the decor. Ceramic tiles, painting, colored mosaics - these options are the most common. All planes are covered with materials. Unless the floor covering can be self-leveling. Its color scheme in this case is characterized by a gradient: from the lightest section of the walls to the darkest.

It is difficult to talk about furnishing the bathroom, since it is not always possible to place anything else here besides the cabinet. Sometimes a chair with a cosmetic table is placed. The color of the attributes complements the flooring.

But the elements of plumbing allow us to embody modernity in all its glory: forged, non-standard materials are selected to match the color of the finish, and are embedded in the walls. Curly heated towel rails and futuristic bathtubs decorate any room. The emphasis on asymmetry is created with the help of spot lighting and mirrors. Bathroom accessories include original glasses for toothbrushes, clothes hangers, and artificial flowers.

Lighting

In this case, natural lighting is more important than artificial lighting. Therefore, large panoramic windows are installed in apartments. The frame can have different shapes: polygon with rounded corners, oval, circle, etc. You should avoid straight lines, so it is better to equip even rectangular windows with additional wooden beams, creating a new pattern.

A massive chandelier is a must-have attribute of any Art Nouveau room

In the kitchen, lighting should be background and targeted. The first is installed above the dining table, the second - in the work area. Often an LED strip is attached to the lower kitchen cabinets located above the sink and countertop.

For the living room it is worth considering active lighting. Often a large chandelier with candle-shaped lamps is mounted in the center of the ceiling. Round lampshades decorated with crystals and forging are also popular. It is better to opt for models with three or more shades.

For additional lighting, you can use wall lamps and sconces

In the bedroom, lighting should be diffused and calm. In addition to the central chandelier, sconces are installed, which act as an additional light source. You can also look at beautiful lamps for bedside tables, which will also serve a decorative function.

Kitchen

Practical and functional style will easily fit even into a small kitchen. Plain wall decoration serves only as a background, so painting is used. Glass wallpaper looks slightly better than ceramic tiles, since the sharp rectangular shapes of the latter disrupt the harmony of the style. The ceiling covering merges with the walls using smooth transitions. Sometimes a suspended ceiling without an expressive texture is used. The floor also plays a passive role, harmonizing with the furniture set. The best option is self-leveling floors. Plain granite that matches the color of the furniture is rarely used. Practical laminate is gaining popularity: its range allows you to choose the desired shade that contrasts with the background of the planes.

The arrangement of furniture is determined by simple geometry and asceticism of color. Its attributes are disguised as walls, and have soft contour lines. No other frills are allowed in the kitchen. In the center of the room there is a massive tabletop on thin legs. It is up to the owners to decide whether to place an emphasis on the table or not. The designer will complement their selection with classic chairs with beautiful patterns.

Unlike other rooms, lighting in the kitchen has functional purposes. Its placement in a furniture set fully meets the style requirements. Sometimes just a background ceiling light is enough. If the owner chooses frameless glazing, then the rounded shape of the window is created using rough curtains. Small accessories on the dining table should be related to the functional purpose of the room: dishes, decorative vase.

Renovation in Art Nouveau style

Do you want to feel like an aristocrat of the 19th century? Amaze all your friends and acquaintances by inviting them to visit and seating them in gilded armchairs near the fireplace? Then check out the real photos of modernism in the interior and choose those elements that are suitable specifically for your apartment!

Kitchen (with photo)

First of all, the luxury of modernism is indicated by the presence of large free space in any room. But nowadays, kitchens are often small and cramped, so it will be easier to recreate the characteristic features of this direction through interior items. Particular attention should be paid to the decor: stucco ceilings, vintage chandeliers, ornate design of the table and chairs. Please note that the seats should be soft and comfortable. Here are some photos of kitchen design ideas in modern style:

Kitchen in modern style

The more space, the more comfortable you feel

Carved furniture is a clear sign of luxury

Don't forget about the gorgeous chandelier

Art Nouveau style

Living room (with photo)

The most luxurious room inside the house. It should be a pleasant time for both you and your guests. It is recommended not to skimp on expensive parquet or high-quality imitation. The colors don't have to be too bold - try a few neutral tones such as beige, gray and wood brown. And cabinets and bookshelves can be made, for example, from ebony - for contrast and to attract attention.

The modern living room looks catchy and intriguing

The shape of the lamps is limited only by your imagination

A skillful combination of progress and classic decor

Columns are also an extremely interesting element

Paintings should definitely decorate the walls of your home.

Sofas and armchairs should always be soft and comfortable

Bedroom (with photo)

Calm colors should predominate in the bedroom, and their number should preferably be kept to a minimum: only two or three. Also pay special attention to the light: it should be soft and diffused, soothing. Find nice blackout curtains for the windows and hang light fixtures on the walls. Don't forget about space for closets and a wardrobe, you should have everything you need to get ready in the morning. It would be a good idea to purchase a coffee table. The main thing is that the colors of the furniture do not conflict with the colors of the decor, walls and ceiling.

The face of the bedroom is a luxurious bed

Don't skimp when choosing bedroom decor - you should feel comfortable

A night lamp is also a great idea for the bedroom

Almost any modern bedroom involves some kind of decorating element above the backrest

Forged tacky elements will also be a good decoration

Bathroom (with photo)

Art Nouveau design for the bathroom is characterized by many subtle details and “beauties”. In addition to decorative elements, it can be an interesting pattern, ornament or mosaic. Furniture should be looked in the same direction - artsy, vintage, with carved legs. And, of course, don’t forget about the central element of the composition - a luxurious king-size bathtub.

The bed is the face of the bedroom, and the bath is the face of the bathroom.

Patterns and a riot of colors are integral attributes of modernity

Sometimes you can turn to calmer forms

Bathtub in the middle of the bathroom - special chic

Notice the interesting pattern on the walls

The interior in the Art Nouveau style will appeal to nature lovers, creative individuals, and connoisseurs of the classics. Such repairs are quite expensive financially, because they are characterized by the use of expensive materials, designer furniture with elements of forging and carving. However, there is a way to save money!

If you value your time and finances, you can download a special program for interior design. One of these is the “Interior Design 3D” program. It can be found on the website. Using this application, you can see what the apartment will look like upon completion of the arrangement and, if desired, make adjustments.

In the program you can think through in detail the future appearance of the room

Advantages of the “Interior Design 3D” program:

• ✔ simple and clear interface in Russian;
• ✔ 450 built-in finishing materials;
• ✔ the ability to choose a layout from a built-in set or create your own;
• ✔ more than a hundred furniture models;
• ✔ creation of full and partial estimates;
• ✔ planning in real time.

It is convenient that the apartment model can be rotated in different directions, viewing in three-dimensional space all the pros and cons of the created project. If desired, the program can be expanded to full screen, improving visibility. The finished project can be saved, printed, or returned to editing after a while.

Thanks to the “Virtual Visit” function, you can fully evaluate the result

This program will be useful for small construction teams, apartment/house owners who want to independently develop an interior design, people professionally involved in home improvement, or those who want to learn how to plan the space of rooms at a higher level.

Hallway

In a cramped corridor, designers focus on the doorway. The canvas with soft curves of fittings and stained glass inserts attracts attention. Walls and ceilings rarely stand out from the general background, since expressive lines and patterns can disrupt the calm atmosphere of the style. That's why pastel paint is used instead of wallpaper. Together with lighting, it can combine the walls with the ceiling. The flooring is a continuation of the room floor, which means it is made of wooden parquet.

Furnishing the hallway involves the use of built-in cabinet furniture in the form of sliding wardrobes. Mandatory attributes include a dressing table with curved asymmetrical shapes. Bright colors of natural wood are allowed. For comfort, several wall lamps are installed at once at a small height from the floor.

The main accessories in the corridor are decorative mirrors and thematic paintings. But textile elements should be avoided.

The history of the development of the “modernism” style has, to some extent, a rebellious beginning.

In the mid-twentieth century, designers sought to create something new, to establish non-standard principles in interior design, moving away from stereotypes - a lot of textiles, soft shapes, smooth lines, a large number of accessories in the room. As it turned out later, such an impulse to renew any artistic form was well appreciated, and the style began to exist.

It is worth noting that there is also the “modern” style, which appeared a little earlier than the interior style described here, and it has a slightly different idea - an artistic style, but not a modern interior based on advanced technologies. It is worth being able to distinguish between these concepts. A special rise of modernism can be noted in the 70s-80s in the West, when many buildings after the war were just beginning to be put in order. State attractions, historical and cultural monuments were restored to their former appearance, but other buildings were decorated in a modern way. The basic principles of modernism were discovered at that time - the use of modern building materials, a completely different approach to interior decor, increasing the functionality and practicality of the building.