Best Of 67+ Striking Open Concept Around A 1950s Sears House Plan For Every Budget

When it comes to Mid-Century Modern house design, few are as iconic as the open-concept floor plan. This classic layout combines form and function for an effortless style that’s current yet timeless. It’s no wonder that it has graced the interiors of some of the most impressive Art Deco house designs over the years. But how did the open-concept become the go-to layout for design-savvy homeowners?

Open-concept floor plans have been around since the 1950s, when the idea of open houses was gaining in popularity. At the time, architects sought to create homes that were more in-tune with modern living, complete with living and entertainment spaces that easily connected without any compartmentalization. This move toward more open-ended living swept through the design world and made its way into not just homes, but furniture, appliances and accessories, too.

A mid-century modern house plan isn’t complete without an open-concept layout. Homes from this era ushered in bright, airy spaces that connected seamlessly from one room to the next. The defining feature of a mid-century modern home is its connection to nature and, in turn, its use of natural materials, including wood, glass, metal and brick. Today, this same aesthetic continues to captivate interior design lovers everywhere.

It’s easily done to mistake a retro home for one of today’s modern apartments. Many Mid-Century Modern houses have all the amenities we’d expect like a kitchen, open-concept living space, and private bedrooms and bathrooms. After all, many of these Art Deco house designs were built for comfort, and the era during which they were constructed was all about conveniences for the modern homeowner. In other words, retrofitting a 1950s home for today's living isn't an impossible feat.

However, making a mid-century modern home suitable for contemporary living is more than just updating the walls with the latest wallpapers and throw pillows. There are plenty of architectural features that need to be taken into consideration before making large changes. For example, many mid-century homes feature smaller doorways, windowsills, and closets that are too small for today's needs. Thus, modifications need to be taken slowing and judiciously to make sure that the home retains its classic charm.

Before beginning a mid-century modern renovation project, it’s important to do plenty of research and assess the home from a structural standpoint. This means identifying potential problems like plumbing and electrical systems that may need to be replaced and renovated, as well as any structural issues that need to be addressed. Once the modifications have been taken care of, homeowners can get to work on designing a modern yet timeless style for their space.

Open-concept floor plans are perfect for those who enjoy entertaining and seamlessly transitioning from one room to the next. This style of layout gives homeowners plenty of design potential, allowing them to create a cohesive and comfortable living space. Open-concept plans work especially well in mid-century modern houses, where natural light is ever-present and freedom in design is abundant.

Mid-century modern living rooms generally feature large windows and are located near the kitchen space for easy entertaining. To give the room a classic yet contemporary edge, look for furniture that has both classic elements and modern lines. Low-slung seating, low-pile carpets, and handcrafted wooden coffee tables are all great choices. Accessories and decor should be minimalistic and organic, allowing the room to focus more on the natural beauty of the space.

In a mid-century modern kitchen, the open-concept space is ideal for hosting casual gatherings or entertaining guests. A good kitchen design for this concept ought to include plenty of natural light, stainless steel or otherwise light-colored appliances, and deep cabinets or shelves to provide plenty of storage. Some classic kitchen staples, such as a large farmhouse sink and butcher block island, can also provide a timeless look. Additionally, consider using natural materials for countertops, such as marble or granite, to capture the mid-century feel.