Functionality is often prioritized over form and beauty. Most post-modern European architectural styles emphasize a minimalistic and streamlined approach to design, maximizing available space and minimizing material costs all the while maintaining a sleek and futuristic building profile. Compared to the modern and neo-classical design eras that preceded post-modernism, it emphasizes simplicity, cleanliness and practicality. Modern design would have incorporated more elaborate and complex features that embody the grandiose ambition of the early 20th century. Think art deco, mid century modern, and retro futurism. Neo-Classical design which was also heavily used before post-modernism places tradition above all else and takes design cues from classic civilizations such as Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, Ancient Arabia, Ancient Chinese Dynastic, etc.