As the growth of high-tech companies continues in Palo Alto and Silicon Valley, we’re seeing increasing demand for custom high-performance homes that rely on streamlined modern design. Clarum’s clients appreciate the minimal, cohesive approach of Modernism that’s in alignment with the tech platforms of today.

It’s not surprising that people who work every day with clean, easy-to-use interfaces desire a kindred aesthetic beyond the digital space – they want it in the place they live. Elegant and airy modern homes provide a welcome contrast to our area’s pervasively ornate and oversized “McMansions” and drab ranch houses.

At Clarum, we demonstrate this type of minimalist appreciation with well-planned modern architecture and high-performance efficiency. Our custom homes reflect the philosophy that less is more.

Elements of modern homes

Modern architecture breaks away from cookie-cutter design and lavish approaches. Instead, it takes inspiration from the philosophy, “form follows function,” as coined by Frank Lloyd Wright’s mentor, Louis Sullivan. Below, we summarize some of the key characteristics of modern homes:

Bring natural light into interiors

Harshly distracting artificial lighting can undermine the ease and aesthetic of a living environment. In contrast, modern homes strategically position large expanses of windows to bring in as much natural light as possible, enhancing the comfort and beauty of the living space, and providing dramatic views of the surrounding environment.

Emphasize natural materials

Modern-contemporary homes use natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal to create a softer, authentic interior and exterior. They utilize the inherent characteristics of these materials in a way that showcases their true qualities, such as using only a light stain on wood so you can still see the grains.

Create open, airy spaces

Room compartmentalization with thick walls and doors in traditional architecture can result in a claustrophobic and crammed feeling. In contrast, modern homes use as few walls as possible to remove barriers between rooms. Instead, they incorporate screens, partitions, panels, glass, and split levels to create an open layout that lets light through.

Design with simple, clean lines

In contrast to superfluous curves and details, modern homes have sharp lines that are visually handsome and provide a perfect combination of order and style. These structures mix eye-catching linear elements to create a unique statement and to showcase a high sense of flow within the space.

Create harmony between interiors and exteriors

Modern homes create smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces through covered awnings, extended rooflines, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open to large patios and atriums. Use of large expanses of glass bring the structure’s exterior environment into the building with vivid views and integrated landscaping.

Step into the future

Minimalism combined with high-performance technology are the hallmarks of Clarum modern homes. Breaking free from excessive detail and complicated lines, we strip away what’s unnecessary and embrace simplicity. This approach creates the perfect environment for people who want an innovative living environment.

Want to learn more about how Clarum can help you build the modern home of your dreams? Give us a call at 650.322.7069.