Modern architecture is generally characterized by simplification
of form and an absence of applied decoration. It is a term
applied to an overarching movement, with its exact definition
and scope varying widely. In a broader sense, early modern
architecture began at the turn of the 20th century with efforts
to reconcile the principles underlying architectural design with
rapid technological advancement and the modernization of
society. It would take the form of numerous movements, schools
of design, and architectural styles, some in tension with one
another, and often equally defying such classification. The
concept of modernism is a central theme in these efforts.
Gaining popularity after the Second World War, architectural
modernism was adopted by many influential architects and
architectural educators, and continues as a dominant
architectural style for institutional and corporate buildings
into the 21st century. Modernism eventually generated reactions,
most notably Postmodernism which sought to preserve