Those of us who desire residential architecture that better reflects our modern times have wondered what it will take to get there.  A look through plan books, Better Homes and Gardens, and a number of places show that we’re not leaning modern, yet.

The “Green” movement might bring hope.  While vernacular designs did take into account the local climate conditions and material availabilities (along with the skills brought by those who settled the area), they didn’t take into account many of the things we’ve learned about construction, energy use, etc.  Show me a “traditional” house that doesn’t look out of place with solar panels.

“Green” brings hope.  “Green” design almost dictates a modern style.  It wants us to be more sensitive to the site, material choices, and energy usage.  All of these are opportunities for us to come up with designs that aren’t traditional.

Green might be what it takes to final get Modern.