Does some Modern Design Architecture Feels Cheap and Hollow? (The Soul-Lessness Crisis)

Dennis Asis
4 days ago
3 min read

Modern skyscrapers labeled "Progress Towers - Live Your Future," with a person walking past. Red brick building on the left under gray sky. — Modern high-rise buildings of "Progress Towers" rise against a cloudy sky, while an individual walks by, highlighting the blend of contemporary architecture and urban life.

New buildings often feel cheap and hollow, leaving many people wondering why modern architecture seems to lack soul and character. This feeling is not just a personal impression but a widespread critique of contemporary construction. The issue goes beyond aesthetics; it touches on how spaces make us feel and connect with our environment.

Modern glass office building with "For Lease" sign (left) and historic stone building with ornate details and sunlit tree (right). — Modern meets classic: A newly constructed contemporary office building stands in contrast to a historic, ornate building surrounded by lush greenery.

The Rise of Uniformity and Cost-Cutting

One major reason new buildings feel soulless is the focus on efficiency and cost reduction. Developers and architects often prioritize budgets and timelines over craftsmanship and unique design. This leads to repetitive, cookie-cutter structures that lack personality.

Mass-produced materials like cheap drywall, synthetic flooring, and generic glass panels replace traditional, natural materials such as wood, stone, and brick. These natural materials age gracefully and carry a sense of history and warmth, which mass-produced alternatives struggle to replicate.

Modern glass building contrasting with ornate, historic structures on a cloudy day. No text, muted colors. Urban architectural mood. — Modern architecture meets classic design as a sleek glass building integrates smoothly into a traditional European cityscape.

Lack of Human Scale and Detail

Modern design Architecture buildings frequently ignore human scale and intricate details that create a sense of intimacy and comfort. Large, flat surfaces and minimal ornamentation can make spaces feel cold and impersonal.

For example, older neighborhoods often feature buildings with small windows, decorative moldings, and varied facades that invite exploration and engagement. In contrast, many new developments use large glass walls and uniform shapes that emphasize function over form, making them feel hollow inside.

Modern cityscape with tall glass buildings, people walking in a sunny park, and cars on the street. Clear blue sky in the background. — Modern cityscape featuring a cluster of sleek, glass-encased high-rise buildings under a clear sky, with pedestrians and cyclists enjoying the green space below.

Disconnection from Local Context

Another factor is the disconnection from local culture and environment. Many new buildings look the same regardless of their location, reflecting global trends rather than local identity. This erases the unique character that comes from responding to climate, history, and community needs.

Cities like Barcelona or Kyoto show how architecture can reflect local traditions and materials, creating spaces that feel rooted and meaningful. When new buildings ignore these elements, they lose the opportunity to contribute to a place’s story.

Spacious, modern office interiors with wooden floors and gray sofas. Large windows offer a scenic view of trees and mountains. Bright lighting. — Modern and spacious office environment with large windows offering scenic views, ample natural light, and collaborative workspaces for productivity and creativity.

The Impact on Well-Being

The soul of a building influences how people feel inside it. Spaces that lack warmth and character can affect mood and productivity negatively. Research shows that environments with natural materials, varied textures, and thoughtful design improve mental health and comfort.

For instance, hospitals designed with natural light, wood finishes, and views of nature help patients recover faster. Offices with sterile, uniform interiors often feel stressful and uninspiring. This connection between architecture and well-being highlights the cost of soulless design.