it's charming.. Noah explains everything in such a detail and consideration WiTH pictures and asks "does it make sense?". if only most things in life made so much sense.
I’ve never seen someone articulate this idea so well on the internet. Concepts like this are some of my favorite things to talk about with clients when discussing curation. Great job :)
I get the “honesty of structure and material” argument, but frankly, I feel it is just architecture’s attempt to take itself more seriously than it needs to. I’m much more keen of the concept of genius loci, or the sense of place. If a structure engenders a positive sense of place it is successful. That may include Disney world, sure, but the sense of place is usually stronger when something is the real deal. Clean modern architecture can be successful, but when done in the industrial commercial scale it often is not, just like the McMansions. That means the traditionally build modern spaces can have that too if crafted with sense of place in mind. The allergy to decoration from modernism I feel is silly. We are humans and we are drawn to it, and we don’t need to purge imagination and fantasy to live grownup serious sophisticated lives if we don’t want to, in the name of an abstract honesty only architects truly claim to care about. The best examples of architecture show that freedom.
Thank Le Lord that Le Corbusier wasn't able to implement his “Plan Voisin for Paris.” What a nightmare -- haha! Looking forward to that Copenhagen architecture tour.
Your videos are great. They're filling a gap on UA-cam. You have an almost scholarly approach, and you're a professional. You know what you're talking about. You are not rambling. You provide good examples.
just keep doing what you are doing, very interesting getting into the more nuances of design rather than, "buy this, not this", type of information. You are providing some foundation for folks to build on with their style.
I totally understand this and support this viewpoint. The tiny one-bed apartment that I live in was built in 1950, it's a mid-century modern-style brick build. It was designed in such a way that it has both east and west-facing windows on either side of an open-plan living area separated by a highly functional, built-in solid wooden partition/shelving and breakfast bar unit between the kitchen and lounge. All of this natural sunlight drenches the space at all times of day. Using thoughtfully, well-designed furniture pieces that are suited in proportion to the space makes the apartment desirable for everyone who visits, despite how small it is. Literally, everyone who has visited has said they prefer it to 'modern' one-bedroom apartments (i.e the white rectangular cookie-cutter, multi-story apartments circa 2010). There's so much character in its simplicity.
This is so insightful! It’s not that ornament is a crime, it’s dishonest ornament, simulacra. Beautifully articulated, and your point about subdividing windows really made me reconsider my ideal glazing.
The point of “faux detailing” is to look nice. Very very few people care if the column they’re looking at is a solid stone structural element or a metal covering over a steel or wood beam. They just care that it has more detail and looks more beautiful than a plain, bare structural member.
Your inspiration images remind me so much of my grandfather’s house when I was growing up. He had this beautiful home that was very modernist and inviting and cozy. It was registered as a historical site in his neighborhood. He sold the house years ago and I’ve never been in another like it, but have always wanted to recreate the feeling.
I am in the process of designing a house outside Berlin, and I really appreciate your perspectives on modernism, especially in the context of Europe. A lot of architects and designers on UA-cam seem to be very trend forward, where they will praise a trend as it’s happening and then shun it in the next year as it fades out, all while telling you not to follow trends. I find myself trying to read between the lines, looking for which trends are a result of previous poor design, and are now trending because of the need for more practical use (think of the evolution of kitchen design). I’d be interested in more in-depth videos on different architectural styles and design, with an emphasis on how they are used and misused in the present, highlighting why and how these things change. I think that what you touched on in this video could become a very interesting long-form video, but I understand that that is a lot of extra work. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
I totally understand what you mean! I really believe that when you start to think critically about design, the idea of a trend coming and going is pretty weird. Fashions will always change, but there are some timeless principles about what makes good design. If we understand those design principles and why we're doing something a certain way, there shouldn't be any serious doubts about our space in the future. That's why there are so many ways to do design well - there's not some one size fits all "correct" way to design.
While I'm sure there are crazy foam light medalions, plaster ones are still made. Just because it's mass produced doesn't make it bad. Plenty of things are not trying to look hand made, they are just ornate. I was with him until he went from defending modernism to denagrating traditional embelishments. While I'm ranting, porch columns are still structural. Technically over hangs can be cantilevered, but that's more expensive and not standard. The problem with Mcmansions isn't that they have ornate porch columns. Yes ornamentation should be intentional, but that doesn't mean it has to be simple. I like good modern design and he is right about the difference between good and bad modern design. Where he gets it wrong is tradional design. If you want Roman columns on your front porch fine, but the whole should be intentionally cohesive with that choice. It's when you throw together disperate styles without much thought that you get Mcmansions.
hey! i'm absolutely in love with your personality and enjoy listening to what you have to say :) a video topic suggestion is tips on furnishing and decorating a white box empty rental apartment. planning a move to a new city and start furnishing and decorating from scratch
I love your videos! The breakdown you provide using design language and comparison images is fantastic and, i haven’t seen anyone provide this information in such a concise way on the internet before, i don’t think. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge!
I do agree with your point on windows. I despise the massive panes of glass with as few mullions as possible that are so favored by designers today. Smaller pieces of glass with a greater quantity of mullions works so much better to bring solidity and surety to a glass plane.
Ooh love your content ! As a visual person I like that everything you explain is illustrated :) I feel like i'm learning or clearing my view on concepts in each of your videos.
To be honest, I think a lot of people complaining about how cold and sterile modern design is (I know I’m guilty of it!) don’t know what good modern design can really look like. We’re so saturated with examples of bad modern design I think it has become a stand in for all of it - some of the photos you showed of amazing, warm modern spaces I previously wouldn’t have realized were modern! Anyway really loving your channel, I feel like I’m learning so much (plus I love your design sense)!
I really like this video. Good job on it. I find discussions about modernism and modern architecture is lacking an understanding of how beauty and ornementation works. I think a lot of the discussion has focused on over simplistic styles and/or not implementing strong lessons learned from architectural design history. Good modern design (architecture or interior) to me includes ornament and design through texture, use of light, and incorporation of design philosophies whereby the building is built to be lived in. Historic spaces and traditional buildings feel empty without people and normally those environments are filled with people because they are beautiful (at least where I live and have traveled in). In the US I find more modernist areas to not implement lessons of how to build structures that are still visually and emotionally dynamic innately given their architecture. Loved finding this video and your channel. I hope you continue to grow and make more videos.
I feel so understood! As an American that's moved to Europe I couldn't agree more about North American "modern" spaces. So happy you're interested in what I had to say, I'm planning on making many more videos on design so stay tuned for more💫
Personally I love both. But to me, doing any type of traditional architecture shouldn’t be considered gauche. Like, yes, when it’s too much it can easily be deemed faux and mega tacky. But I feel if someone does it right we can have neo movement again that lasts more than 5 years. Same with modernism, personally, I hate the soulless of some buildings here in NYC, but I love others. I love the style of some 70s house with their weird angles and wood. But, and I know it’s not what you are saying, classifying any type of traditional architecture as faux because it’s old is not the way to go. I like the idea of implementing architecture to the history of the place in a globalist society, as their history and culture shines through more. So, I think, if we can open ourselves to different ideas of traditional architecture and implement them into our cities, I personally, think could be a wonder. Idk if I’m expressing myself correctly hahah but with the whole array of buildings we have, to only look to buildings built since the 50s seems like a waste of potential. Again, ik it’s not what you are saying but I just wanted to share my point of view on the issue.
this has actually made me change my general "fuck minimalism" criticism and add nuance. i still love ornament but very much because of the history and meaning behind it, so i definitely agree that trying to replicate that with styrofoam and pretend it's the same is tacky. loving the content and the aesthetics so far!
Have you considered that people like detail and design and artistry and aren't that concerned about whether they are 'synthetic'? If we can find modern ways to do that, with modern materials, that's a good thing. I'm not sure how styrofoam is going to hold up but I'm not opposed to other materials that do the same thing well. It doesn't matter to me if a good building was built in 1800 or 2000. The date of it is irrelevant if its done well. That's the key. The Wayfair chairs aren't bad because they aren't 'genuine' old things, they are bad because they won't have the craft of the old thing. If you went to a joiner, you could get something just as good as the old chair made today. The problem is the mass market, same as the McMansions. Not the design. What is 'unnecessary ornament'. Well, it seems to come down to ornament you like and ornament you don't.
The pieces from wayfair you’ve shown are perfectly valid pieces of furniture. Their quality of construction is almost certainly lower than the antique originals you compared them to, and their durability as well is significantly lower I’m sure. That said, I’d much rather have the beautiful traditional style pieces of furniture in my home than some equally poorly made and short lived piece of streamlined, modernist furniture without any decoration or beauty.
I see a lot of American DIY channels that "style" each room, but in a totally artificial way. Especially DIYers who have turned into house flippers. I'm not going to go out and buy 3 vases, 2 fake plants, a milk jug and a straw hat just to "style" my shelves. Don't get me started on those bookcases where everything is organized by colour and not one of the books has probably been read. I much prefer this natural, authentic approach to design. But I have to do it on a budget. I want affordable Scandinavian style and function, but no cardboard furniture. My family is Danish, and I'm wildly jealous of their homes every time I go there. Trying to bring authentic hygge to my Canadian home is tough. I saw your switched outlet and wondered if you were in Denmark ;) those are so cool, why can't we have them here!
I agree that we don't need unnecessary ornament, but I do think a lot of humans, myself included, love some ornament. For example: I could wear all plain linen clothes and be comfortable, but I so enjoy colour and pattern in my clothes! The same goes for our house. I am looking into getting a trellis door installed in our house, so we can ventilate naturally at night when the summer days get hot, without stray cats coming to sleep on our sofa (function), but I also want it to be pretty, so I'm working with a craftsman blacksmith to design and make doors that fit our village house (form). It's not easy, because in traditional Belgian architecture we don't use this kind of door, but then again, fifty years ago summers weren't as hot as they are now, so we need to adapt to changing circumstances...
Hurrah! Thank you, Noah, it is wonderful to hear you speak about design and integrity.....I so agree with all that you spoke about and really look forward to you sharing your thoughts.
This! I am a new interior designer and I agree with all of what you are saying here and your other videos, but have struggled to find a way to express this myself (partly a second language thing for me). Thank you for laying this out so easily understood. I will refer to this video in the future.
I'm loving all your videos so far! I really agree with what you said here. I think you explained this concept really well, and gave great examples to illustrate it. It was also really fun to watch! I'd like to add that I do think you can find and incorporate modern pieces that are more highly ornamented and have them feel good as long as they are made with authentic materials and craftmanship. Like a piece of wooden furniture that has been hand carved by a skilled crafts person.
I really appreciate this informed take and would love to hear more on the intention and history of other architectural/design styles like contemporary and arts & crafts, etc!
as an European I have to say that it's not common to use faux materials like foam and hollow ornaments ect. I personally have a love/hate relationship with modernism, as a Scandinavian I love function, I love light lots of windows, nice big balconies ect. that is typical for modernism, I also like a lot of modern furniture especially Danish modern furniture, however I hate hate hate more than hate the 95% ugly soulless modern buildings that have been build and in part destroyed the old Scandinavian cities, it makes me want to cry, some of the old buildings most loved is actually simple like Nyhavn in Copenhagen, it does not have to be complicated just nice materials, colors, different levels , slanted roofs, flat roofs is not only not pretty especially seen from above, it's not practical due to water issues
Well said. I have gone and watched all your videos, didn't take long cause you're such a new youtuber, and I really like your idea or concept of honesty and integrity of design. I am currently in a phase of positive transition and overhauling of all things in my life, but ESPECIALLY design and my wardrobe, deriving from a shift in thought and an intentional restructuring of life style.....the old me was all about the excess ornamentation and form before function, as well as everything being dark or black or "" Gothic" in the older, truer definition of the word(think castles and Edgar Allen Poe)......but, as someone prone to deression naturally, I got tired of depressive decor that was "shallow" for no real reason and required unnecessary work to maintain....life's too short.....now I want things light, airy, uncluttered, honest, and beautifully practical(I'm definitely the "use the fine China every day" type of person); I want a CURATED space, not an "aesthetic"; a space filled with pieces I love
I just moved into a new space completely starting new and your videos have been SO helpful! I want to curate a space thats mine but didn't know what to look for, i knew i wanted thoughtful pieces and didn't just want to buy the firs thing i saw that i liked. Please keep doing what you're doing!
Stumbled upon your channel today and I have to say you are doing gods work! I love the opinions of yours while you are also very informative. Keep doing what you are doing 🙌
you're killing it. I found you just today, instantly subscribed and am now watching though all of the videos you have up so far, waiting for more. you literally put to words the feelings I've had most of my life. no need for the self doubt, this is UA-cam interior design videos at their absolute best!
noah, I've been waiting for a channel like yours to show up no my feed! Immediately hit subscribe. from a fellow designer, I so appreciate your well thought-out articulation of design theory and am amazed at how concise you're able to be with your language. I echo so much of these perspectives when I work with my clients, but obviously I have a lot to learn from you !! really looking forward to watching this channel grow. xo
I agreee with this yeah. I'm no architect, but I am an artist, and knowing how much is too much, and how little is too little, is really important! It's also subjective a lot of the time as well! In art there's a sort of theory known as "Illusion of detail." It states that one shouldn't try to draw or paint every single tiny detail, because that's not what art is about, it's about interpretting what you see, or think, onto a page. I feel like this is similar, you're interpretting your intentions for a space, into something physical, something real. For my house, we use a lot of asian inspired minimalism. A kotatsu, with a simple clean black futon underneath, and some simple lamps, etc etc. It's simple, but it feels comfortable, which is important. Don't fear ornament, or beauty, but don't add detail if it doesn't serve the feeling of the space you want! Bonus: I HATE spackled cielings. Imo, they serve only to break up a cieling to hide imperfections, and instead make an unruly mess of light and shadow, leaving the space feeling chaotic and disconnected. Assymetry can look nice, but chaos just leaves me upset. That might be because I'm autistic though lol.
This video was so interesting, it really helps you pinpoint the difference between good and bad modernism, it's hard to put your finger on sometimes but you put it so eloquently!
Selfishly I’d love a video about selecting interior paint colors and lighting - no idea if that’s in your wheelhouse! Would definitely love to see you react to more home tours and to submissions from your audience, it’s genuinely so informative to hear your opinion on why things do or don’t work, and ways to fix them!
Hi, I've watched two of your videos and I really like your content and comments. One thing though that I could happily live without is the "music". That to me is 'unnessesary ornament'.
Wait, you live in Copenhagen? I’m a newer subscriber with a ever growing love for design and architecture and have happily stumbled across your channel, which has been a delightful find! I too live in Copenhagen (Amager) , in the most charming old apartment with beautiful wooden floors and decorated ceilings with medallions. Each day, I cherish these unique and beautifully crafted elements. I love your casual chats that feel more genuine, cozy and educational compared to other interior design experts here on UA-cam that often places entertainment above providing informative content. Keep doing what you’re doing because it’s a delight.
Loooove this new channel! You've helped me and my partner come together in designing our space. Can we please get a video about applying modernism to a classic suburban home? I know there's no one-size fit, but most of your examples are super gorgeous spaces that had an immense budget and perfect bones. How do we work with a home that's just a bunch of walls, carpet, and some wood floors?
2:40 what I also think is that we (we being humans generally speaking lol) like a look that is intentional. When a doorway is arched with brick, I believe that we innately, if not consciously, realize it took time and effort and thus was an intentional choice, executed with craftsmanship. So it’s impressive and you appreciate it more. Modern design can give that too, but you’re right I think (some) people only think of modern as cold lol 4:21 ok I see what you’re saying and agree 100% I feel the same about cheap rendition of farmhouse in a suburban home. I’m always like… ok farmhouse style is great if you’re …. Yknow what I’m sorry but I smoked a little pot and I am over typing on my phone lmao but great video enjoyed it :)
I'm loving your channel! Not sure if you're taking suggestions, but I'd love your thoughts on implementing the principles of modernism if you live in an older house. I commented on your lighting video too, but my house was built in the 1920s and has some architectural ornamentation that I love. We have a lot of vintage furniture in the same style, which is great, but I don't want to feel like I'm living in a time capsule. I'm struggling to create a space that's appropriate for the home, but without feeling too traditional or "themed," if that makes sense. I feel like I could incorporate more minimal or modern touches to help with this, but I'm afraid they might feel out of place in my house. So I'm struggling to find that balance!
Love what your doing, love your plans, if you keep going, I'll keep watching. Especially the focus on reviving lost food culture and renovating and gardening. 👍👏👏👏
Even though I already know most of this stuff, I subscribed because I love your voice and delivery, and your opinions are facts, and the images of interiors you choose to show are the best. 🤗🤗🤗
All of this makes sense! What you said about windows resonated with me, and comforted me. I love a wall of windows (and a corner of windows!) but a wall of only glass - that you can't open, and maybe that's key for me - gives me a claustrophobic vibe.
Loving your videos! I really appreciate how thoughtful and articulate you are. I studied urban planning and I appreciate how you’ve explained where people go wrong in modernism!
I agree 100% about breaking up windows into small frames. That’s one of Christopher Alexander’s patterns in A Pattern Language. Any chance you could talk about Chris and how some of his patterns can be incorporated and especially *why* these patterns make a space feel good?
This might be the first YT comment I am ever leaving (that I can remember at least). You're great, please continue to make high quality content. You will do great on here. Good luck!
In the 1960s and 1970s in the UK Le Corbusier style modern tower blocks were common as major cities were partially flattened by bombs in WW2 but these towers were slapped up to house working class/underclass people with no thought of context or how the occupants would live in them. This often led to catastrophic results. Idiotic architecture at its finest. It’s funny how the architects who designed these homes didn’t live in them.
First of all, thank you so much for your contribution, I love your content! I have a question for you if you don’t mind. How do you make a cohesive home when the home design changed over time? For example, I bought a house from the 40s and I really love the original part of the house, but my house had multiple owners and they added multiple sections to the house with different structures, for example : the windows , the original part have windows with subdivisions but the room that was added have the big windows with no subdivisions. Is there a way to still make it cohesive ?
I saw the wall switch/outlet and was like "he's in Denmark", but then the accent and the way you talk... but then you mentioned CPH at the end and my suspicion was proven right. ;P
Hi Noah, I am so glad to have stumbled upon your channel. You articulate your thoughts very clearly, and it's evident that you are well-versed in the subject! That being said, I **respectfully disagree** with parts of your video. My disagreement might be rooted more in semantics than in anything you've said. Personally, I differentiate between the Modernist movement of the 20th century and contemporary 'modern' architecture. The Modernist movement aimed to create functional, efficient designs that embodied the "modern" spirit, rejecting historical styles and unnecessary decoration in favor of clean lines, minimalist forms, and honest use of materials. This is very different from what people colloquially call modern architecture today, which, while it may follow certain modernist design trends, almost entirely abandons the modernist philosophy. Modernist architects such as Le Corbusier, Adolf Loos, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and perhaps even Frank Lloyd Wright, to an extent, would likely disagree with your interpretation of "form follows function." That's not to say that you're wrong - I personally agree with you and think you explained the phrase in a ***very*** refreshing way. However, since we are discussing some of the ideas proposed by these thinkers, I feel this is an important distinction to make. Most modernists adhered strictly and puritanically to 'form follows function,' and most, if not all, of the examples you listed (such as the one at 5:22) wouldn't qualify because they would be considered too superfluous and are, in fact, highly ornamental. You might argue that some of the work you listed could align with some of Frank Lloyd Wright's designs, but (I personally believe) Wright was somewhat of an outsider in the Modernist movement and differed from its dominant guiding principles. FLW was far more holistic than his peers, taking a certain degree of aesthetics into consideration. All this to say, I think we as design and architecture enthusiasts often mistakenly portray contemporary 'modern' architecture (or Modern Revival/Neo-Modern as many tend to call it) as being meaningfully linked to the ideology and philosophy of the Modernist movement. While there are aesthetic similarities, contemporary 'modern' architecture does not adhere to the movement's underlying principles. It may reference certain ideas occasionally, but these ideas have taken on entirely new forms that do not align with the guiding principles of the Modernist movement. Contemporary 'modern' architecture is almost entirely driven by aesthetics, focusing on interesting silhouettes, a degree of (Scandinavian) minimalism, and interesting materials. Any claim to the contrary could almost always be refuted by looking at the actual cost of contemporary 'modern' architecture; it is not at all practical or efficient in the way it was originally intended to be. Contemporary 'modern' architecture is more concerned with creating interesting environments rather than practical ones. Materials like marble and certain stones are gorgeous but expensive and can be easily stained. I also disagree with your point that 'traditional' architecture isn't feasible in today's world, especially from an international perspective. I share your concern that new traditional developments might feel like Vegas or Disneyland, but I think this issue is almost exclusive to the US due to America's over-reliance on wood-framed construction and cheap foamy decoration. In many other parts of the world, you see 'traditional' developments that look quite impressive, probably because most other countries use concrete for architecture. In Europe, for instance, Sebastian Treese comes to mind as a great traditional architect. Overall, I really enjoyed your video and have subscribed to your channel. You are clearly very knowledgeable and express yourself with great clarity! I'm interested to hear what you think about my perspective. Also, a disclaimer: I love almost all forms of architecture, even brutalism, but I **personally** have a preference for some traditional buildings. I also admire contemporary modern architecture, though I have some critiques about it appearing sterile from time to time, which I believe can be easily remedied by infusing some of the traditional architecture of the region into contemporary designs. Have a great day/night! :)
If modern designs function is to strip every last area of life of any kind of character or individuality, then it's form accomplishes it to perfection, it's bland and soulless to a T, be it the copy paste interior design or copy paste stell and glass neighborhoods
“Does this make sense?” Baby, we were born to see your visions.
🙇🏻💕
it's charming.. Noah explains everything in such a detail and consideration WiTH pictures and asks "does it make sense?". if only most things in life made so much sense.
Yes I was thinking similiar, this guy just says things in the most chefs kiss way.
I’ve never seen someone articulate this idea so well on the internet. Concepts like this are some of my favorite things to talk about with clients when discussing curation. Great job :)
Yay! Thanks so much. Lots more to come 🧚♂
I get the “honesty of structure and material” argument, but frankly, I feel it is just architecture’s attempt to take itself more seriously than it needs to. I’m much more keen of the concept of genius loci, or the sense of place. If a structure engenders a positive sense of place it is successful. That may include Disney world, sure, but the sense of place is usually stronger when something is the real deal. Clean modern architecture can be successful, but when done in the industrial commercial scale it often is not, just like the McMansions. That means the traditionally build modern spaces can have that too if crafted with sense of place in mind. The allergy to decoration from modernism I feel is silly. We are humans and we are drawn to it, and we don’t need to purge imagination and fantasy to live grownup serious sophisticated lives if we don’t want to, in the name of an abstract honesty only architects truly claim to care about. The best examples of architecture show that freedom.
Thank Le Lord that Le Corbusier wasn't able to implement his “Plan Voisin for Paris.” What a nightmare -- haha! Looking forward to that Copenhagen architecture tour.
Your videos are great. They're filling a gap on UA-cam. You have an almost scholarly approach, and you're a professional. You know what you're talking about. You are not rambling. You provide good examples.
Wow, thank you so much!
aghhh you only uploaded 3 videos and already are my favorite design channel on youtube cant wait for more
Hear hear!
just keep doing what you are doing, very interesting getting into the more nuances of design rather than, "buy this, not this", type of information. You are providing some foundation for folks to build on with their style.
I totally understand this and support this viewpoint. The tiny one-bed apartment that I live in was built in 1950, it's a mid-century modern-style brick build. It was designed in such a way that it has both east and west-facing windows on either side of an open-plan living area separated by a highly functional, built-in solid wooden partition/shelving and breakfast bar unit between the kitchen and lounge.
All of this natural sunlight drenches the space at all times of day. Using thoughtfully, well-designed furniture pieces that are suited in proportion to the space makes the apartment desirable for everyone who visits, despite how small it is. Literally, everyone who has visited has said they prefer it to 'modern' one-bedroom apartments (i.e the white rectangular cookie-cutter, multi-story apartments circa 2010). There's so much character in its simplicity.
This is so insightful! It’s not that ornament is a crime, it’s dishonest ornament, simulacra. Beautifully articulated, and your point about subdividing windows really made me reconsider my ideal glazing.
The point of “faux detailing” is to look nice. Very very few people care if the column they’re looking at is a solid stone structural element or a metal covering over a steel or wood beam. They just care that it has more detail and looks more beautiful than a plain, bare structural member.
Your inspiration images remind me so much of my grandfather’s house when I was growing up. He had this beautiful home that was very modernist and inviting and cozy. It was registered as a historical site in his neighborhood. He sold the house years ago and I’ve never been in another like it, but have always wanted to recreate the feeling.
I am in the process of designing a house outside Berlin, and I really appreciate your perspectives on modernism, especially in the context of Europe. A lot of architects and designers on UA-cam seem to be very trend forward, where they will praise a trend as it’s happening and then shun it in the next year as it fades out, all while telling you not to follow trends. I find myself trying to read between the lines, looking for which trends are a result of previous poor design, and are now trending because of the need for more practical use (think of the evolution of kitchen design). I’d be interested in more in-depth videos on different architectural styles and design, with an emphasis on how they are used and misused in the present, highlighting why and how these things change. I think that what you touched on in this video could become a very interesting long-form video, but I understand that that is a lot of extra work.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
I totally understand what you mean! I really believe that when you start to think critically about design, the idea of a trend coming and going is pretty weird. Fashions will always change, but there are some timeless principles about what makes good design. If we understand those design principles and why we're doing something a certain way, there shouldn't be any serious doubts about our space in the future. That's why there are so many ways to do design well - there's not some one size fits all "correct" way to design.
Ive watched so many interior design youtubers, so far you have the best advise thats not just about sizes of rugs you should have. THANK U!!!
While I'm sure there are crazy foam light medalions, plaster ones are still made. Just because it's mass produced doesn't make it bad. Plenty of things are not trying to look hand made, they are just ornate. I was with him until he went from defending modernism to denagrating traditional embelishments. While I'm ranting, porch columns are still structural. Technically over hangs can be cantilevered, but that's more expensive and not standard. The problem with Mcmansions isn't that they have ornate porch columns. Yes ornamentation should be intentional, but that doesn't mean it has to be simple. I like good modern design and he is right about the difference between good and bad modern design. Where he gets it wrong is tradional design. If you want Roman columns on your front porch fine, but the whole should be intentionally cohesive with that choice. It's when you throw together disperate styles without much thought that you get Mcmansions.
This explains why I like traditional and also modernist styles - when they are done well
hey! i'm absolutely in love with your personality and enjoy listening to what you have to say :) a video topic suggestion is tips on furnishing and decorating a white box empty rental apartment. planning a move to a new city and start furnishing and decorating from scratch
He did your suggestion :)
I love your videos! The breakdown you provide using design language and comparison images is fantastic and, i haven’t seen anyone provide this information in such a concise way on the internet before, i don’t think. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge!
This is such a lovely compliment 💞 thank you so much!
I do agree with your point on windows. I despise the massive panes of glass with as few mullions as possible that are so favored by designers today. Smaller pieces of glass with a greater quantity of mullions works so much better to bring solidity and surety to a glass plane.
Ooh love your content ! As a visual person I like that everything you explain is illustrated :) I feel like i'm learning or clearing my view on concepts in each of your videos.
To be honest, I think a lot of people complaining about how cold and sterile modern design is (I know I’m guilty of it!) don’t know what good modern design can really look like. We’re so saturated with examples of bad modern design I think it has become a stand in for all of it - some of the photos you showed of amazing, warm modern spaces I previously wouldn’t have realized were modern! Anyway really loving your channel, I feel like I’m learning so much (plus I love your design sense)!
I really like this video. Good job on it. I find discussions about modernism and modern architecture is lacking an understanding of how beauty and ornementation works. I think a lot of the discussion has focused on over simplistic styles and/or not implementing strong lessons learned from architectural design history. Good modern design (architecture or interior) to me includes ornament and design through texture, use of light, and incorporation of design philosophies whereby the building is built to be lived in. Historic spaces and traditional buildings feel empty without people and normally those environments are filled with people because they are beautiful (at least where I live and have traveled in). In the US I find more modernist areas to not implement lessons of how to build structures that are still visually and emotionally dynamic innately given their architecture. Loved finding this video and your channel. I hope you continue to grow and make more videos.
I feel so understood! As an American that's moved to Europe I couldn't agree more about North American "modern" spaces. So happy you're interested in what I had to say, I'm planning on making many more videos on design so stay tuned for more💫
Ahhh ty ty for doing long(er) form content! Paige Wassel should shout you out cus I think her audience would like your videos!
I love the idea of the architecture tour!
Personally I love both. But to me, doing any type of traditional architecture shouldn’t be considered gauche. Like, yes, when it’s too much it can easily be deemed faux and mega tacky. But I feel if someone does it right we can have neo movement again that lasts more than 5 years. Same with modernism, personally, I hate the soulless of some buildings here in NYC, but I love others. I love the style of some 70s house with their weird angles and wood. But, and I know it’s not what you are saying, classifying any type of traditional architecture as faux because it’s old is not the way to go. I like the idea of implementing architecture to the history of the place in a globalist society, as their history and culture shines through more. So, I think, if we can open ourselves to different ideas of traditional architecture and implement them into our cities, I personally, think could be a wonder. Idk if I’m expressing myself correctly hahah but with the whole array of buildings we have, to only look to buildings built since the 50s seems like a waste of potential. Again, ik it’s not what you are saying but I just wanted to share my point of view on the issue.
Yes please take us on a tour of Copenhagen.
this has actually made me change my general "fuck minimalism" criticism and add nuance. i still love ornament but very much because of the history and meaning behind it, so i definitely agree that trying to replicate that with styrofoam and pretend it's the same is tacky. loving the content and the aesthetics so far!
Have you considered that people like detail and design and artistry and aren't that concerned about whether they are 'synthetic'? If we can find modern ways to do that, with modern materials, that's a good thing. I'm not sure how styrofoam is going to hold up but I'm not opposed to other materials that do the same thing well. It doesn't matter to me if a good building was built in 1800 or 2000. The date of it is irrelevant if its done well. That's the key. The Wayfair chairs aren't bad because they aren't 'genuine' old things, they are bad because they won't have the craft of the old thing. If you went to a joiner, you could get something just as good as the old chair made today. The problem is the mass market, same as the McMansions. Not the design.
What is 'unnecessary ornament'. Well, it seems to come down to ornament you like and ornament you don't.
The pieces from wayfair you’ve shown are perfectly valid pieces of furniture. Their quality of construction is almost certainly lower than the antique originals you compared them to, and their durability as well is significantly lower I’m sure. That said, I’d much rather have the beautiful traditional style pieces of furniture in my home than some equally poorly made and short lived piece of streamlined, modernist furniture without any decoration or beauty.
I see a lot of American DIY channels that "style" each room, but in a totally artificial way. Especially DIYers who have turned into house flippers. I'm not going to go out and buy 3 vases, 2 fake plants, a milk jug and a straw hat just to "style" my shelves. Don't get me started on those bookcases where everything is organized by colour and not one of the books has probably been read. I much prefer this natural, authentic approach to design. But I have to do it on a budget. I want affordable Scandinavian style and function, but no cardboard furniture. My family is Danish, and I'm wildly jealous of their homes every time I go there. Trying to bring authentic hygge to my Canadian home is tough. I saw your switched outlet and wondered if you were in Denmark ;) those are so cool, why can't we have them here!
I agree that we don't need unnecessary ornament, but I do think a lot of humans, myself included, love some ornament. For example: I could wear all plain linen clothes and be comfortable, but I so enjoy colour and pattern in my clothes! The same goes for our house. I am looking into getting a trellis door installed in our house, so we can ventilate naturally at night when the summer days get hot, without stray cats coming to sleep on our sofa (function), but I also want it to be pretty, so I'm working with a craftsman blacksmith to design and make doors that fit our village house (form). It's not easy, because in traditional Belgian architecture we don't use this kind of door, but then again, fifty years ago summers weren't as hot as they are now, so we need to adapt to changing circumstances...
Hurrah! Thank you, Noah, it is wonderful to hear you speak about design and integrity.....I so agree with all that you spoke about and really look forward to you sharing your thoughts.
This! I am a new interior designer and I agree with all of what you are saying here and your other videos, but have struggled to find a way to express this myself (partly a second language thing for me). Thank you for laying this out so easily understood. I will refer to this video in the future.
architect here and omg thanks for talking about this, i feel alone when i express this is my concept of how architecture should be
I'm loving all your videos so far! I really agree with what you said here. I think you explained this concept really well, and gave great examples to illustrate it. It was also really fun to watch! I'd like to add that I do think you can find and incorporate modern pieces that are more highly ornamented and have them feel good as long as they are made with authentic materials and craftmanship. Like a piece of wooden furniture that has been hand carved by a skilled crafts person.
I so want to nerd out on these topics and great job in breaking all this stuff down.
Love your videos. Love how you show so many photos while your exploring design ❤
I really appreciate this informed take and would love to hear more on the intention and history of other architectural/design styles like contemporary and arts & crafts, etc!
as an European I have to say that it's not common to use faux materials like foam and hollow ornaments ect. I personally have a love/hate relationship with modernism, as a Scandinavian I love function, I love light lots of windows, nice big balconies ect. that is typical for modernism, I also like a lot of modern furniture especially Danish modern furniture, however I hate hate hate more than hate the 95% ugly soulless modern buildings that have been build and in part destroyed the old Scandinavian cities, it makes me want to cry, some of the old buildings most loved is actually simple like Nyhavn in Copenhagen, it does not have to be complicated just nice materials, colors, different levels , slanted roofs, flat roofs is not only not pretty especially seen from above, it's not practical due to water issues
Well said. I have gone and watched all your videos, didn't take long cause you're such a new youtuber, and I really like your idea or concept of honesty and integrity of design. I am currently in a phase of positive transition and overhauling of all things in my life, but ESPECIALLY design and my wardrobe, deriving from a shift in thought and an intentional restructuring of life style.....the old me was all about the excess ornamentation and form before function, as well as everything being dark or black or "" Gothic" in the older, truer definition of the word(think castles and Edgar Allen Poe)......but, as someone prone to deression naturally, I got tired of depressive decor that was "shallow" for no real reason and required unnecessary work to maintain....life's too short.....now I want things light, airy, uncluttered, honest, and beautifully practical(I'm definitely the "use the fine China every day" type of person); I want a CURATED space, not an "aesthetic"; a space filled with pieces I love
First time watching your channel, subscribed! Love it, love all the imagery you include, excellent content! Love love!!
I just moved into a new space completely starting new and your videos have been SO helpful! I want to curate a space thats mine but didn't know what to look for, i knew i wanted thoughtful pieces and didn't just want to buy the firs thing i saw that i liked. Please keep doing what you're doing!
Stumbled upon your channel today and I have to say you are doing gods work! I love the opinions of yours while you are also very informative. Keep doing what you are doing 🙌
So glad I found you, but the background music detracts from your wonderful content.
loooove how you explain things! Please keep posting!
you're killing it. I found you just today, instantly subscribed and am now watching though all of the videos you have up so far, waiting for more. you literally put to words the feelings I've had most of my life. no need for the self doubt, this is UA-cam interior design videos at their absolute best!
Same here, although he did not bother to answer my question…
noah, I've been waiting for a channel like yours to show up no my feed! Immediately hit subscribe.
from a fellow designer, I so appreciate your well thought-out articulation of design theory and am amazed at how concise you're able to be with your language. I echo so much of these perspectives when I work with my clients, but obviously I have a lot to learn from you !! really looking forward to watching this channel grow. xo
You’re awesome!! You and Paige Wassel would be two peas in a design pod.
I agreee with this yeah. I'm no architect, but I am an artist, and knowing how much is too much, and how little is too little, is really important!
It's also subjective a lot of the time as well! In art there's a sort of theory known as "Illusion of detail." It states that one shouldn't try to draw or paint every single tiny detail, because that's not what art is about, it's about interpretting what you see, or think, onto a page.
I feel like this is similar, you're interpretting your intentions for a space, into something physical, something real.
For my house, we use a lot of asian inspired minimalism. A kotatsu, with a simple clean black futon underneath, and some simple lamps, etc etc. It's simple, but it feels comfortable, which is important.
Don't fear ornament, or beauty, but don't add detail if it doesn't serve the feeling of the space you want!
Bonus: I HATE spackled cielings. Imo, they serve only to break up a cieling to hide imperfections, and instead make an unruly mess of light and shadow, leaving the space feeling chaotic and disconnected. Assymetry can look nice, but chaos just leaves me upset. That might be because I'm autistic though lol.
This video was so interesting, it really helps you pinpoint the difference between good and bad modernism, it's hard to put your finger on sometimes but you put it so eloquently!
Love your videos and the visuals you integrate! For me they could be even longer😆
Selfishly I’d love a video about selecting interior paint colors and lighting - no idea if that’s in your wheelhouse! Would definitely love to see you react to more home tours and to submissions from your audience, it’s genuinely so informative to hear your opinion on why things do or don’t work, and ways to fix them!
Hi, I've watched two of your videos and I really like your content and comments. One thing though that I could happily live without is the "music". That to me is 'unnessesary ornament'.
You are awesome at explaining interior design concepts and I’m really happy I found your channel :)
Love this video - concise and informative! Can’t wait for more
Wait, you live in Copenhagen? I’m a newer subscriber with a ever growing love for design and architecture and have happily stumbled across your channel, which has been a delightful find! I too live in Copenhagen (Amager) , in the most charming old apartment with beautiful wooden floors and decorated ceilings with medallions. Each day, I cherish these unique and beautifully crafted elements. I love your casual chats that feel more genuine, cozy and educational compared to other interior design experts here on UA-cam that often places entertainment above providing informative content. Keep doing what you’re doing because it’s a delight.
Maybe see if you can collab with Paige Wassel or Caroline Winkler, here on UA-cam, they have good taste and a similar approach to conscious design
Loooove this new channel! You've helped me and my partner come together in designing our space. Can we please get a video about applying modernism to a classic suburban home? I know there's no one-size fit, but most of your examples are super gorgeous spaces that had an immense budget and perfect bones. How do we work with a home that's just a bunch of walls, carpet, and some wood floors?
What are your thoughts on wall moulding trim? Like the rectangle or square ones you can get from home depot and add to your walls?
More! More! More! So enthused about your channel
2:40 what I also think is that we (we being humans generally speaking lol) like a look that is intentional. When a doorway is arched with brick, I believe that we innately, if not consciously, realize it took time and effort and thus was an intentional choice, executed with craftsmanship. So it’s impressive and you appreciate it more.
Modern design can give that too, but you’re right I think (some) people only think of modern as cold lol
4:21 ok I see what you’re saying and agree 100% I feel the same about cheap rendition of farmhouse in a suburban home. I’m always like… ok farmhouse style is great if you’re …. Yknow what I’m sorry but I smoked a little pot and I am over typing on my phone lmao but great video enjoyed it :)
I'm loving your channel! Not sure if you're taking suggestions, but I'd love your thoughts on implementing the principles of modernism if you live in an older house. I commented on your lighting video too, but my house was built in the 1920s and has some architectural ornamentation that I love. We have a lot of vintage furniture in the same style, which is great, but I don't want to feel like I'm living in a time capsule. I'm struggling to create a space that's appropriate for the home, but without feeling too traditional or "themed," if that makes sense. I feel like I could incorporate more minimal or modern touches to help with this, but I'm afraid they might feel out of place in my house. So I'm struggling to find that balance!
Love your content, please keep creating and informing. Thank you
Yay! I love all of your videos so far. Can’t wait to watch you grow your channel!
Thank you so much!!
I’m so obsessed with your content!
Have you read Christopher Alexander’s A Pattern Language? He focused so much on this idea and it’s repercussions!
Yes! Christopher Alexander’s books were a part of my curriculum in university. They’ve seriously impacted me and how I see the built environment
A soothing and informative accompaniment to my morning coffee :)
Love what your doing, love your plans, if you keep going, I'll keep watching. Especially the focus on reviving lost food culture and renovating and gardening. 👍👏👏👏
Even though I already know most of this stuff, I subscribed because I love your voice and delivery, and your opinions are facts, and the images of interiors you choose to show are the best. 🤗🤗🤗
All of this makes sense! What you said about windows resonated with me, and comforted me. I love a wall of windows (and a corner of windows!) but a wall of only glass - that you can't open, and maybe that's key for me - gives me a claustrophobic vibe.
Loving your videos! I really appreciate how thoughtful and articulate you are. I studied urban planning and I appreciate how you’ve explained where people go wrong in modernism!
What are the rules for mixing modern and antique decor/design? I have mostly modern decor but trying to bring in some antiques.
I agree 100% about breaking up windows into small frames. That’s one of Christopher Alexander’s patterns in A Pattern Language. Any chance you could talk about Chris and how some of his patterns can be incorporated and especially *why* these patterns make a space feel good?
Wow, incredible video, gave me a lot to think about and a new perspective! New subscriber instantly! Bravo 👏
This might be the first YT comment I am ever leaving (that I can remember at least). You're great, please continue to make high quality content. You will do great on here. Good luck!
Omg thank you so much!!
In the 1960s and 1970s in the UK Le Corbusier style modern tower blocks were common as major cities were partially flattened by bombs in WW2 but these towers were slapped up to house working class/underclass people with no thought of context or how the occupants would live in them. This often led to catastrophic results. Idiotic architecture at its finest. It’s funny how the architects who designed these homes didn’t live in them.
First of all, thank you so much for your contribution, I love your content!
I have a question for you if you don’t mind. How do you make a cohesive home when the home design changed over time?
For example, I bought a house from the 40s and I really love the original part of the house, but my house had multiple owners and they added multiple sections to the house with different structures, for example : the windows , the original part have windows with subdivisions but the room that was added have the big windows with no subdivisions. Is there a way to still make it cohesive ?
I saw the wall switch/outlet and was like "he's in Denmark", but then the accent and the way you talk... but then you mentioned CPH at the end and my suspicion was proven right. ;P
I really don’t subscribe to many channels… I have just 2 that I watch regularly. Now I have 3! Go you! ❤
Please take us on a tour!
an architecture tour would be amazing!
Hi Noah,
I am so glad to have stumbled upon your channel. You articulate your thoughts very clearly, and it's evident that you are well-versed in the subject! That being said, I **respectfully disagree** with parts of your video. My disagreement might be rooted more in semantics than in anything you've said. Personally, I differentiate between the Modernist movement of the 20th century and contemporary 'modern' architecture. The Modernist movement aimed to create functional, efficient designs that embodied the "modern" spirit, rejecting historical styles and unnecessary decoration in favor of clean lines, minimalist forms, and honest use of materials. This is very different from what people colloquially call modern architecture today, which, while it may follow certain modernist design trends, almost entirely abandons the modernist philosophy.
Modernist architects such as Le Corbusier, Adolf Loos, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and perhaps even Frank Lloyd Wright, to an extent, would likely disagree with your interpretation of "form follows function." That's not to say that you're wrong - I personally agree with you and think you explained the phrase in a ***very*** refreshing way. However, since we are discussing some of the ideas proposed by these thinkers, I feel this is an important distinction to make. Most modernists adhered strictly and puritanically to 'form follows function,' and most, if not all, of the examples you listed (such as the one at 5:22) wouldn't qualify because they would be considered too superfluous and are, in fact, highly ornamental. You might argue that some of the work you listed could align with some of Frank Lloyd Wright's designs, but (I personally believe) Wright was somewhat of an outsider in the Modernist movement and differed from its dominant guiding principles. FLW was far more holistic than his peers, taking a certain degree of aesthetics into consideration.
All this to say, I think we as design and architecture enthusiasts often mistakenly portray contemporary 'modern' architecture (or Modern Revival/Neo-Modern as many tend to call it) as being meaningfully linked to the ideology and philosophy of the Modernist movement. While there are aesthetic similarities, contemporary 'modern' architecture does not adhere to the movement's underlying principles. It may reference certain ideas occasionally, but these ideas have taken on entirely new forms that do not align with the guiding principles of the Modernist movement. Contemporary 'modern' architecture is almost entirely driven by aesthetics, focusing on interesting silhouettes, a degree of (Scandinavian) minimalism, and interesting materials. Any claim to the contrary could almost always be refuted by looking at the actual cost of contemporary 'modern' architecture; it is not at all practical or efficient in the way it was originally intended to be. Contemporary 'modern' architecture is more concerned with creating interesting environments rather than practical ones. Materials like marble and certain stones are gorgeous but expensive and can be easily stained.
I also disagree with your point that 'traditional' architecture isn't feasible in today's world, especially from an international perspective. I share your concern that new traditional developments might feel like Vegas or Disneyland, but I think this issue is almost exclusive to the US due to America's over-reliance on wood-framed construction and cheap foamy decoration. In many other parts of the world, you see 'traditional' developments that look quite impressive, probably because most other countries use concrete for architecture. In Europe, for instance, Sebastian Treese comes to mind as a great traditional architect.
Overall, I really enjoyed your video and have subscribed to your channel. You are clearly very knowledgeable and express yourself with great clarity! I'm interested to hear what you think about my perspective. Also, a disclaimer: I love almost all forms of architecture, even brutalism, but I **personally** have a preference for some traditional buildings. I also admire contemporary modern architecture, though I have some critiques about it appearing sterile from time to time, which I believe can be easily remedied by infusing some of the traditional architecture of the region into contemporary designs.
Have a great day/night! :)
Wow - I loved this!! Keep up the good work - I learned so much 👍🥰😄 More - More!!
I would love that tour of Copenhaguen
Love your videos! Would like a video on the stainless steel interiors. And white room interiors.
Please turn down the music
Could you recommend some art/ architecture publications that you think are cool?
Would love Copenhagen videos! Also would be v curious to see what you think of Tan France’s house
You think you would enjoy visiting Gropius House. www.historicnewengland.org/property/gropius-house/
If modern designs function is to strip every last area of life of any kind of character or individuality, then it's form accomplishes it to perfection, it's bland and soulless to a T, be it the copy paste interior design or copy paste stell and glass neighborhoods
My girlfriend and I love your channel! We have been watching a video every night for the last few days. Please keep it up, you’re going to go far 😊
you say things well Noah, nice!
Loved this! Thank you!!!
Design nerds with good taste that wanna nerd out about this stuff? You found me!
Yes we want the Copenhagen design tour!!
wow i love the way you talk about design!
I love your channel!! ❤
Would you maybe consider taking on/doing a video about your view on minimalism & maximalism?..
😇
Very well articulated ideas.
Followed so fast. Do you have a public Pinterest? 😊
Fantastic video! Cant wait to watch more
Yes! Please show us your Copenhagen neighborhood!