Category: Mid-Century Homes

Mid-Century Modern Homes for Sale in Los Angeles | There’s no denying the allure of mid-century modern houses, architecture and classic mid-century design. With their clean lines, minimalist aesthetic, emphasis on bringing nature and the outdoors in, post and beam construction, open living space and sleek exteriors, there is a lot to love about this style. Mid-century modern architecture grew from the modernist movement that began in the 1940s after World War II and continued until the 1960s. Mid-century architects sought to create a new type of contemporary architecture that was more functional, efficient and stylish than the traditional look of the time.

The Evolution Of
Mid Century Modern Architecture

The Case Study Program

Historically, the Case Study Program celebrated the architectural design of some groundbreaking mid-century modern homes in Los Angeles. The program’s vision was the work of Los Angeles-based Arts & Architecture magazine Editor John Entenza. He envisioned commissioning architects to design and build inexpensive and replicable model homes for the United States population. The Case Study House Program ultimately produced 36 homes between 1945 and 1966, but only a handful remain standing today.

The Influence of John Entenza

Entenza envisioned the architecture program would provide housing that was not only affordable but also stylish and modern. The homes would be built using mass-production techniques, keeping costs down. It was a departure from the traditional housing development model, where each home is unique and costly to build. The Case Study Houses program was one of the most important contributions to modern architecture. It showed that good design and architecture could be achieved with high-quality yet inexpensive materials and mass-production techniques.

Architect-Designed Mid-Century Modern Homes

The ambitious project commissioned by Arts & Architecture magazine invited established architects, including Richard Neutra, Pierre Koenig, A. Quincy Jones, J.R. Davidson, Thornton M. Abell, Charles Eames, Eero Saarinen, Buff and Hensman, Craig Ellwood, Rodney Walker and Raphael Soriano, to submit prototypes. Out of the 36 house plans submitted, 28 homes were built in Los Angeles. Upon completion, the homes were open to the public for exhibition and touring until the homeowners moved in. The successful program, which ran until 1966, brought more than 350,000 visitors to the homes. These iconic modernist architects defined the mid-century modern movement in Los Angeles. These homes continue to influence contemporary architecture today.

The Mid Century Home – Classic But Oh So Contemporary

Countless publications celebrate the joys and inspiration of mid century style and living. One can picture an ideal life in one of these glass-walled homes, entertaining friends and family, taking in the sunny SoCal weather and offering a stunning backdrop for all things photographic. The joy comes not only from the stylish mid-century design but also from the incredible functional living experience these homes provide.

10 Elements of A Mid Century Home

When you think of a mid-century modern house, specific architectural details come to mind. Here are some of the defining characteristics of this classic period:

• Expansive windows that let in an abundance of natural light

• Angular roofs and open floor plans, creating a feeling of spaciousness and freedom

• Indoor and outdoor living areas that blur the lines between them

• Simple, clean lines: minimalist design with a focus on functionality.

• Use of natural materials, such as wood, stone and glass

• Emphasis on horizontal lines and geometric shapes

• A focus on simplicity and functionality; form follows function

• Integration of nature into the design of the home and connection to natural surroundings

• Calming colors with bright accents and interesting patterns. Most mid-century homes feature a calming, sophisticated color palette, with neutrals like grey, white and black. A random pop of color adds visual interest. Patterns are often used to add movement. Common patterns include geometric shapes and abstract designs.

• Texture adds visual interest and contrasts nicely with smooth surfaces; board-formed concrete and cerused wood add natural yet textural elements.

A Mid-Century Modern Home Brings Nature In

Imagine outdoor spaces filled with glistening pools, lush landscaping and light-infused interiors boasting floor-to-ceiling glass, providing access to spectacular views. The seamless transition to the outdoors creates endless entertaining possibilities. There’s something for everyone in this setting, from pool parties to intimate gatherings. At the end of the evening, when the fun is done, one can retreat to one’s serene oasis and relax in style.

Sense Of Style
In Mid-Century Homes

Mid Century Interiors

Mid-century modernist architecture is not only about the exterior details. The inviting and inspired interiors are equally important. Unique architectural details, wood-clad walls and expansive interiors filled with sleek, well-designed objects, art and classic furniture add to the mid-century modern home’s style and vibe. Often, expansive fireplaces in the living area help create a focal point and a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for entertaining or relaxing at home.

The Design of Mid-Century Modern Furniture

One of the most defining characteristics of mid-century modern furniture is its simplicity. Pieces are often sleek and straightforward, with clean lines and little embellishment. Less is more; the pieces are often understated, with a minimalist aesthetic. Natural materials like wood and leather are often used in design, giving pieces a warm, inviting feel. Pieces also utilize geometric shapes, circles, triangles and rectangles to add visual interest and create a sense of balance. Functionality: every element serves a purpose and there is nothing superfluous. Designers Charles Eames, George Nelson, Eero Saarinen and Harry Bertoia all created timeless, iconic pieces of the era.

Mid-Century Modern Homes Are Perfect For Entertaining

If you love entertaining, a mid-century modern home offers open spaces for indoor-outdoor living. Horizontal lines, open floor plans, site choice, steel frames, modular components and public and private spaces contribute to the zen living experience these homes offer. You can have one big event or several small gatherings simultaneously and everyone will still feel connected. There are no walls separating the kitchen from the living or dining room, so the flow of conversation is smooth and natural.

Finding Your Mid-Century Home

Original Case Study houses and other properties influenced by mid century modern design can be found in many neighborhoods across Los Angeles. Brentwood, Laurel Canyon, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Silver Lake, Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Hills neighborhoods are home to many of these properties. If you have been picturing life in a mid-century modern Los Angeles home, maybe this is the year to find one. Contact Beyond Shelter to find Mid Century Modern homes and Contemporary Architecture for sale in Los Angeles and Palm Springs.

The Wohlstetter House by Architect Josef Van der Kar

“The House that Hangs in the Sky.” This dazzling mid-century “crystal box,” was designed by architect Josef Van der Kar.Known as the “Wohlstetter House,” the residence has been featured in The Los Angeles Times Magazine, Modernism, and many architectural books for its open floor plan and mastery of light.

Sequestered and Beautifully Updated Brentwood
Mid Century Home with Stunning Views

This updated Brentwood Mid Century home is perched above street level in the heart of the desirable Brentwood Heights.Complete with rising views of the canyon and the JP Getty Museum, this lush compound sits on over 1.6 acres of sprawling land. A beautifully remodeled home honoring the original Japanese/Mid-Century design creates a warm yet minimalist […]

Los Feliz Mid Century Modern Home – The Steel House by Architect Neil A. Johnson, AIA

The Steel House, Neil A. Johnson, AIA. An unrivaled architectural achievement perched on a knoll north of the Boulevard in a leading neighborhood on Los Feliz.Inspired by the mid-20th century Case Study program, this 1960 masterpiece has been thoroughly revived under the guidance of noted architectural restoration expert Mark Haddawy.

Majestic Beverly Hills Contemporary Residence
by Noted Architect, Richard Dorman, AIA

Beverly Hills Contemporary Residence by Richard Dorman AIA redefined and rebuilt luxury paradise behind the gates just north of Sunset.This Xanadu private oasis boasts nearly 20,000 square feet of land and the most zen-like 3,409 square foot residence.

Spectacular John Elder Sherman Oaks
Mid Century Modern Home, 1954

The John Elder Sherman Oaks Mid Century Modern home. Spectacular single-story mid-century modern residence, designed by noted architect John Elder, 1954. Tucked away for ultimate privacy, and massive head-on panoramic views of the entire San Fernando Valley, this gorgeous architectural home enjoys floor-to-ceiling windows for the most stunning sunsets.

SILVER LAKE GREGORY AIN CONDO, THE AVENEL TRACT, 1947

The Avenel Tract, a Silver Lake Gregory Ain condo building. Rare opportunity to own one of the best units in this landmark Silver Lake complex that represents the best of mid-century modern design and thinking. Ain worked with the 10 original owners to create an innovative plan that offered each owner privacy and flexible floor […]