A Brief History Lesson: Mid-Century Modern Architecture

Mid-Century Modern architecture is a distinct style of design which was created and popularized between the Late 1930’s through the early 1960’s. It is most commonly recognized by its distinctive floor to ceiling windows, flat roofs, open floor plans and its use of natural elements.

A perfect example of Mid-Century Modern design is the Eames house, also known as Case Study #8. In this project, Ray and Charles Eames faced the design challenge of using minimal materials to maximize space without destroying the landscape of the meadow in which they were placing the home. This was originally designed in 1945 with materials to fit with the industrial materials used during WWII. This iconic home has all the popular features best known to Mid-century Modern design.

Today, Mid-Century Modern design is coming back into to style. Timely with the air date of the popular TV show, Mad Men, the furniture and style of the 1930’s-1960’s is starting to pop up all over. Even in the very commercialized design of Ikea furniture, one can see elements of Mid-Century Modern design coming through.

Mid-Century Modernism is definitely on its way back in. Take note, and you may notice this style trending all over the country.