Contextualism in architecture emphasizes designing buildings that harmonize with their surroundings instead of standing out or harmonizing with only their time period. The following are the defining characteristics of the Contextualism architecture movement:
1. Acknowledgment of Site: Contextualism emphasizes recognition of the site's cultural, social, historic, and environmental context.
2. Integration with Surroundings: Architects attempt to integrate new builds seamlessly into their surroundings, both landscape and buildings.
3. Continuity: Contextualism also demands the continuity of design elements found in the surrounding architecture and simplifying details on the new build to match them without fading into the background completely.
4. Material Selection: Designers focus on the careful selection and use of materials that are timeless, natural, and sustainable to connect both the surrounding context and the new build.
5. Relating to History: Contextualism seeks to connect the new design with the history of the surroundings while being authentic to the present.
6. Attention to Detail: Contextualism pays attention to the smallest details, reflecting local tradition.
7. Innovation within the Bounds of Tradition: Finally, the movement advocates for innovation that aligns with and improves cultural traditions.
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