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One of our favourite things from the post-war era? Yes, you guessed it: mid-century modern architecture. The enduring allure of a mid-century modern home is, after all, unquestionable. Defined by natural materials, design efficiency and an abundance of light and space, they often feel as contemporary today as they did during their heyday. Whether you’re looking for a modernist masterpiece akin to a Californian Case Study house or a modish yet modest design on a London estate, these five homes are some of the best mid-century modern spaces currently for sale.
Dingleton Road, Melrose, Scottish Borders
There’s a connection to nature – and then there’s living within it. The rolling hills and evergreen woodland surrounding this home at the foot of Eildon Hills in the Scottish Borders make it hard to believe that Edinburgh is only 40 miles away. Idyllic views of greenery pour through the windows and chime harmoniously with the timber interior.
It’s no wonder the single-storey house calls to mind Frank Llyod Wright’s Usonian houses: as well as the rural location, the home has the simple grid pattern layout and flat roof for which the American architect is renowned. The architect of this home, however, is thought to be Joseph Blackburn: a colleague of the celebrated modernist architect behind Klein House, Peter Womersley.
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Manygate Lane V, Shepperton, Surrey
What do Marlon Brando, Rod Steiger and Julie Christie have in common? They were all one-time residents of Manygate Lane, the iconic estate and conservation area that houses this bold and brilliant mid-century home. Consider this a cousin of the Span house: it was, after all, designed by Swiss architect Edward Schoolheifer for the Lyon Group, who birthed said housing style.
This three-bedroom home is a masterclass in simplicity. The sleek façade and mid-century interiors are utterly immaculate, while floor-to-ceiling glazing welcomes plenty of light into the space. Mid-century fanatics will revel in the original features such as the Jarrah wood flooring and pine-clad ceilings. Don’t mind if we do.
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Fox Lane, London BR2
This striking home exudes the post-war optimism that fuelled the mid-century modern movement. Joyful quirks include accents of yellow peppered throughout the space: on numerous doors, on the kitchen tiles, on the striped awnings. Meanwhile, the modernist façade is likely to leave anyone passing by in awe of its remarkable design.
The design comes courtesy of Roy Hickman, who was considered to be one of the most imaginative British architects building private houses at the time. He also built the three neighbouring houses (although only two remain). His trademarks included large expansive glass and central heating to allow for open-plan living. With the emphasis firmly placed on light and space, these houses were considered seminal works for their sublime innovation. Now, name a better backdrop for mid-century classics such as the Eames Lounge Chair.
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Terborch Way, London SE22
Not all mid-century homes are grand in size: this bright two-bedroom terrace house, for instance, is modish yet modest. It’s located on the award-winning Dulwich Estate in Dulwich, south-east London, and was designed by architect F.O. Hayes in the 1960s. Thankfully, the home’s exterior has been carefully cared for over the years and it remains in keeping with the estate’s mid-century charm.
Inside, the home has been brought right up to date with contemporary interiors, such as simple white walls and cork floors. Natural light streams in through the glazed doors, which open onto the beautiful back garden (bonus points: it’s south-facing).
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Lovelace Avenue, Solihull, Warwickshire
The influence of Frank Lloyd Wright on mid-century modern architecture is undeniable – so here’s a second home in this selection that’s a homage to the architect. This time, it’s Lloyd Wright’s Prairie-style houses that were the inspiration behind this Grade II-listed house. It was designed and built by acclaimed architect D. Rosslyn Harper, who lived here with his family.
The cantilevered flat roof, the internal exposed brickwork, open-plan living space and exquisite use of timber are a testament to the home’s mid-century heritage. The timber is a particular highlight: marvel at the wonderful golden tones it creates. Oh, and its street name, Lovelace Avenue, is just as pleasing as the home.
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I am an expert and enthusiast-based assistant. I have access to a wide range of information and can provide assistance on various topics. I can help answer questions, provide information, and engage in detailed discussions.
Regarding the concepts mentioned in this article, here is some information related to each concept:
Mid-century modern architecture:
Mid-century modern architecture refers to a style of architecture that emerged in the mid-20th century, roughly from the 1940s to the 1960s. It is characterized by clean lines, open floor plans, and a focus on integrating indoor and outdoor spaces. Mid-century modern homes often feature large windows, flat roofs, and the use of natural materials such as wood and stone. This architectural style is known for its simplicity, functionality, and emphasis on bringing nature into the living space.
Frank Lloyd Wright:
Frank Lloyd Wright was an American architect who is considered one of the greatest architects of the 20th century. He was known for his organic architecture philosophy, which aimed to create buildings that harmonize with their natural surroundings. Wright's designs often featured open floor plans, integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, and the use of natural materials. Some of his most famous works include Fallingwater, the Guggenheim Museum, and the Robie House.
Usonian houses:
Usonian houses were a type of residential architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. These houses were intended to be affordable and accessible to the middle class. Usonian houses typically had a single-story layout, open floor plans, and a strong connection to nature. They often featured natural materials, such as wood and stone, and incorporated passive solar design principles. Usonian houses were designed to be efficient, functional, and in harmony with their surroundings.
Span house:
Span houses were a type of housing style developed in the mid-20th century by the Span Development company in the United Kingdom. These houses were designed to provide affordable and well-designed homes for the middle class. Span houses were characterized by their modernist design, open floor plans, and integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. They often featured large windows, flat roofs, and a focus on natural light and ventilation .
Modernist architecture:
Modernist architecture is a broad term that encompasses various architectural styles that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Modernist architecture is characterized by its emphasis on functionality, simplicity, and the use of new materials and construction techniques. It often rejects traditional ornamentation and focuses on clean lines and geometric forms. Modernist architects sought to create buildings that reflected the spirit of the times and embraced technological advancements.
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