(Here’s What You Should Know)
Residential architecture was turned upside down nearly 100 years ago, when mid-century modern homes were introduced to the world.
They were wildly different to the types of homes that preceded it, and so it’s no surprise they soon became very popular. Even today, people are drawn to this kind of home.
So, if you’re looking for a new home and are intrigued by the mid-century aesthetic, read on to learn why these homes are so popular! But first, let’s define the characteristics of a mid-century home.
What Is A Mid-Century Modern Home?
Mid-century modern homes became popular in the 1940s, and were a type of architecture that rebelled against more traditional designs, heavily borrowing from Frank Lloyd Wright’s work.
While its popularity did wane following the 1960s, it’s still a very popular type of architecture that can be spotted readily throughout the U.S. Let’s take a look at four characteristics that make up this kind of home.
Flat Panes
Mid-century modern homes emphasize flat planes. This love of geometry is evident throughout mid-century homes, from the roof to the room layouts.
While ranch-style mid-century modern houses tend to maintain the gable roofs, the insides tend to have more straight lines than typical ranch homes.
Mid-century modern interior design does defy convention, however. Designers tend to make use of furniture with curves in geometric rooms, creating ‘modern’ looks that nod to the 1950s and 1960s.
Large Windows
One of the most striking features of mid-century modern homes are big glass windows. It’s not unusual for the back of mid-century homes to have no walls at all, and instead to just have large floor-to-ceiling windows.
Some houses may be totally made of glass so lots of light can enter through the front of the house too.
Not only do large glass windows look amazing, but they allow plenty of natural light to fill your room. When it comes to design, they allow the house to blend into its natural surroundings, which is ideal for more secluded homes.
Alternate Elevations
Like a split-level house, mid-century modern homes often have multiple floors, but every floor is separated into alternative elevations, normally by a couple of steps.
This effect is greater with partial walls that establish spaces of different depths, or cabinets of different heights.
Harmonious With Nature
Mid-century modern homes usually provide plentiful outdoor views. This tends to translate into large windows, but a variety of access points also achieve this goal, making it easier for you to step out into nature. It’s also not unusual for a mid-century home to have courtyards.
Why Are Mid-Century Modern Homes So Popular?
While mid-century homes are inspired by a style that was popular in the first half of the 20th century, mid-century homes are still popular today.
People are not just buying original mid-century homes, lots of modern residential architects are designing houses designed by mid-century styles. But why are they so popular? Let’s investigate.
Vintage Look
One reason mid-century homes are so popular is that we can’t get enough of vintage styles and designs! And mid-century homes are a great blend of functionality and chicness, so it’s not a big surprise that home-buyers adore the idea of buying a house that has an authentic, vintage vibe.
Furthermore, mid-century modern houses provide plenty of opportunity for creative design choices, and they’re not as confined by their architecture as some other kind of home.
While other types of architecture dictate a certain kind of interior design, mid-century modern homes are more flexible.Homeowners can fully embrace the vintage style, add some modern touches, or pepper in a variety of styles.
Small Spaces With Plenty Of Character
Another selling point for mid-century homes is that their alternative elevations create many fun spaces in your room. One room might feel like it is actually multiple rooms due to a partial wall or a couple of steps that create the illusion of a new space.
The large variety of furniture that compliments mid-century modern designs also provide you with many options for creating the illusion of two rooms for the price of one.
Even the smallest of post-modern homes are full of character. So you don’t need a huge budget to buy a mid-century home. Touring a mid-century modern house can take you on a stylistic journey in even the smallest of spaces.
Practical Decor
Mid-century modern decor is so versatile that it gives you plenty of freedom for interpretation, and you don’t just have to purchase authentically vintage furniture to achieve the desired look. In fact, you don’t even have to incorporate furniture inspired by the era!
Modern touches are an excellent way to create an effective contrast and to make sure your space doesn’t look like a carbon copy of a 1960s movie!
Still, most mid-century modern decor is practical, affordable, comfortable, and durable. Naturally, it looks amazing too, which is again another reason homeowners are drawn to mid-century modern designs.
Plenty Of Freedom
Lastly, even though this style has its roots in a certain period of architectural history, you have a lot of freedom when it comes to styling your house and what you would like to do with your home.
As we have already mentioned, you also don’t need to break the bank sourcing authentic decor to decorate your home.
You also have lots of freedom to create an individual style that aligns with your individual tastes. This can be a bit of a risk if you buy a minimalist home, but not so with a mid-century home.
Final Thoughts
We hope our article has given you an insight on why mid-century modern continues to be so popular! Mid-century modern is both elegant yet funky and cool, so it’s easy to see why people are still so drawn to it today, and why architects and furniture designers still turn to this architectural period for inspiration today.
Check out our list of Mid-Century Furniture Brands.