Mid-century modern house designs, featuring flat roof lines, open layouts, and natural elements including lots of glass, are seeing a resurgence. The simplified, modernistic lines of these homes draw on the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright, and provide ample opportunity to bring nature into the design. Mid-century modern homes add a touch of flair to any neighborhood, and, with the right design, can provide just the right touch of style to any cityscape. Notable mid-century modern architecture includes Philip Johnson’s Glass House and Mies van der Rohe's Farnsworth House.Mid-Century Modern House Designs
Mid-Century Modern House Designs
The California ranch-style house is a classic that is defined by open-space living and single-story design. Making the most of the boom in construction immediately following the Second World War, the California ranch-style house defined a generation of homeowners who embraced a move away from the traditional home styles of the preceding era. With a focus on clean lines, larger windows, and entertaining space, the California ranch-style house continues to define an easy and laidback lifestyle.1950s California Ranch-Style House Designs
1950s California Ranch-Style House Designs
Originating in England, the Tudor-style home features steeply pitched roofs, tall and narrow windows, and prominent chimneys. Tudor-style homes brought English cottage architecture to the United States, with the most famous example being William Randolph Hearst’s San Simeon estate. Today, Tudor-style homes are iconic elements of American residential architecture, as evidenced by the prevalence of homes in this style from small suburban neighborhoods to the Hollywood Hills.Tudor-Style House Designs
Tudor-Style House Designs
Split-level homes were a common style in the 1950s and early 1960s, designed to be economical and efficient while maximizing living space. Split-level homes tend to be two or three stories, with the entrance located in the center. One side of the house has slightly lower ceilings and serves as a living area, while the other has full-height ceilings and is used for sleeping quarters. Split-level homes maximize living space on moderate lots and the unique layout makes them easily identifiable.Split-Level House Designs
Split-Level House Designs
The modern Craftsman-style house draws on the classic design of the early 20th century “arts and crafts” movement. These homes have low-pitched roofs with wide overhangs, exposed beams, and plenty of windows. The style is characterized by its comforting, natural atmosphere and its use of high quality materials. The modern Craftsman-style house is a timeless classic that will remain popular for years to come.Modern Craftsman-Style House Designs
Modern Craftsman-Style House Designs
The contemporary cracker-style house has its origins in the vernacular architecture developed in the American South during the 19th century. These homes take many of the traditional elements of Cracker-style architecture, including wide front porches, raised floors, and low, gabled rooflines. Modern twists include the use of glass windows and high-quality materials for a home that is both traditional and modern.Contemporary Cracker-Style House Designs
Contemporary Cracker-Style House Designs
Eichler homes were originally developed by Joseph Eichler in the 1950s for working-class families in California. These homes feature open layouts, plenty of natural light, and minimal interior walls. The simplicity of the design is Eichler's trademark, and the homes are characterized by flat roof lines, natural wood siding, and large openings for picture windows. Today, Eichler Homes are very sought-after as modern architectural classics.Eichler-Style House Designs
Eichler-Style House Designs
The Art Deco style originated in France in the 1920s and features strong geometric and linear patterns, as well as dashes of the exotic. Art Deco homes combine the classic look of the traditional with a modern touch that is still fresh and vibrant today. Hallmarks of an Art Deco home include symmetrical design, geometric shapes, and bold use of color and texture. Art Deco homes are popular in cities like Miami and Los Angeles, where there is an appreciation for the style and its vibrant atmosphere.Art Deco House Designs
Art Deco House Designs
The atomic ranch-style house is a type of architecture that emerged in the mid-20th century. These homes are characterized by low, angular refreshment and an exciting combination of modern and traditional elements. Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern, and Ranch influences come together in atomic ranch-style designs for a look that is truly unique. Atomic ranch-style homes have a strong sense of style and are an iconic symbol of the 1950s and early 1960s.Atomic Ranch-Style House Designs
Atomic Ranch-Style House Designs
Victorian farmhouse house designs are among the most popular styles in residential architecture. Characterized by their gabled roofs, wrap-around porches, and ornate touches, these charming homes have come to define a bygone era of American culture. Victorian farmhouses take their inspiration from the traditional barn and farmhouse styles of the 19th century, while adding a touch of elegance and class. The result is a timeless styled that looks both traditional and modern.Victorian Farmhouse House Designs
Victorian Farmhouse House Designs
The colonial-style house is one of the most recognizable and popular styles in American architecture. Strong symmetrical lines, straight columns, and a simple and elegant roofline define the colonial-style house. These homes are often seen with storage spaces, like barns or garages, incorporated into their designs. People from all around the world have been drawn to the timeless style of the colonial-style house for centuries, making it an absolute classic.Colonial-Style House Designs
Colonial-Style House Designs
Adding 50's Style to Your House Design
As you plan your next house design, you may be looking to add a bit of retro-inspired style from the
50s
. This era brought with it a number of iconic looks and ideas that can be incorporated into modern-day designs for a unique and stylish look. Whether you’re interested in a full 1950s house stylized renovation, or simply want to add a few elements to a modern look, it is easier than ever to bring the mid-century charm to life with some careful house design.
Incorporating Mid-Century Design Elements
The easiest way to incorporate
50s style house design
is to add elements which were popular at the time. Mid-century modern is defined by its clean, minimalistic lines and natural materials for decoration. Utilize these to begin constructing your design scheme and keep in mind the three main aspects of design: color, texture, and pattern.
Choosing Mid-Century Appropriate Colors
Colors create powerful impressions and emotions, so make sure you’re picking the right shades for your 1950s house design scheme. On the outside, you’ll go for solid cedar planks or lapstrakes with wall surfaces in colors like bluish-gray, green, or avocado. Lighter colors also brought character to homes of the era, including creamy yellow, pastel blue, and pale pink. Inside, choose decor and furnishings that feature earthy tans, creams, and blues.
Including Natural Textures and Patterns
Along with it’s distinct color palette, the 1950s house was filled with natural textures. For décor, opt for materials like jute, rattan, and wicker; while walls can be covered with stately brick or a wood panel for a durable and modern look. As for patterns, consider adding items like atomic carpets and bold geometric shapes. Consider, too, the shapes of mid-century modern furniture such as rounded tables or tapered legs.
Carefully Curated Lighting
As you continue to explore the 1950s house design, you’ll want to think carefully about your lighting. Many fixtures from this era feature organic and globe shaped shades. If you’re feeling inspired, look to add fun and quirky pieces like playful pebbles or a modern braided cord. For the best effect, place the lighting fixtures around the room for maximum ambiance.
Overall, it is possible to include 50’s house design into your current remodel or house design project. With a few simple additions, you will be able to give your home that iconic retro charm. Be sure to consider the colors, textures, and patterns of the era when crafting your design before carefully selecting the perfect light fixtures to illuminate the space. With this approach, you will be able to update your home with the style of mid-century modern.
