Over the last half-century, the landscape of commercial architecture has shifted time and time again in remarkable ways. From the more utilitarian designs that characterized our nation’s architecture in the 1960s to the experimental beginnings of sustainable building in the 1990s, our history continues to inform and influence the way we build today.
Modern businesses enjoy unprecedented heights of technological and artistic innovation in commercial building, allowing for superior branding, healthier bottom lines, and more streamlined customer experience. Still, we would not be where we are today without the diverse styles that brought us here. In this blog post, we’ll take a brief look back on where we came from to see what made modern architectural design what it is.
Commercial Architecture Through the Decades
1960s–1970s: An Era of Functionality
Back in the ’60s, much of commercial architecture was dominated by a focus on function. Buildings were often constructed with the primary aim of serving practical needs, offering ornamentation only as an afterthought. With the exception of some experimental, retro-futurist designs, most structures were decidedly boxy and only began to evolve into more visually interesting styles in the ’70s. This time was characterized largely by the industrial mindset of post-war America, laying the practical groundwork for the diverse styles that would follow.
1980s–1990s: The Postmodern Shift
By the 1980s, the industry was seeing a substantial shift in architectural styles. As postmodernism began to take hold on the cultural mindset, architects began to challenge the rigid minimalism of recent decades with more eclectic, experimental designs. New materials and colors began to bleed into commercial buildings, building on older designs with structures and facades that opened new avenues of expression and branding.
2000s–2020s: The Rise of Sustainable Design
As the world entered a brave new millennium, sustainability began to cement its place as a central theme in commercial buildings. Innovative builders began to pioneer new, green building techniques and search for more sustainable ways to source materials. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certifications became a sought-after standard for commercial projects and would remain so into the modern day.
Today: Untold Architectural Possibilities
Today, commercial architecture is a vibrant blend of timeless, classic styles and modern innovation. Rustic looks are combined with cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to produce commercial buildings that are beautiful, dynamic, and forward-thinking. Plus, with new methods abounding, there are more aesthetic possibilities for business facilities than ever before. Today’s commercial buildings characterize a cultural spirit of bold innovation, vibrant expression, and responsibility to our planet.
Innovation Meets Tradition With VPC Builders
We’ve come a long way in the last sixty years, and at the rate we’re going, the possibilities for the future of commercial buildings are numerous. VPC Builders is proud to contribute to such a promising industry at such a promising time in its history. If you’re preparing to build something new and interesting for your commercial property, we welcome you to be a part. Join us as we combine classic craftsmanship with modern expertise to build a better, brighter future.
Explore the possibilities with us. Contact VPC Builders today.