Moderne architecture, also sometimes referred to as "Style Moderne" or simply "Moderne", a general United States landmarks term for styles of architecture that were popular from 1925 through the 1940s. It has expression in styles traditionally classified as Art Deco, Streamline Moderne, and WPA Moderne. Architectural historian Richard Guy Wilson characterized the style of "Moderne" by the eclectic coexistence of "traditionalism and modernism".[1] The Moderne style of architecture is used as a descriptor in documentation of many National Register of Historic Places-listed buildings.[2]
Some Moderne architecture may be classified as Streamline Moderne, an evolution of Art Deco architecture which peaked in popularity circa 1937. Streamline Moderne can refer to land-based architecture, such as the Normandie Hotel, which show curved, shiplike forms and styling. This follows the water-based adaption of Art Deco decorative style and architecture to passenger ships, such as the SS Normandie. Other Streamline Moderne architecture does not reflect any maritime-oriented themes.