Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (2024)

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Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (3)

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.

Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (4)

Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (5)

Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (6)

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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Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (7)

Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (8)

Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (9)

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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Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (10)

Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (11)

Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (12)

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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Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (14)

Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (15)

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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Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern houses? ›

Some people also refer to midcentury modern as a subset of midcentury decor. Midcentury decor refers to a more ornate style, such as Art Deco, and some might argue this includes Art Nouveau. Midcentury modern decor refers to a style with more of a utilitarian aesthetic incorporating clean lines and basic shapes.

What town has the most mid-century modern homes? ›

According to the National Register of Historic Places, Palm Springs has the highest concentration of midcentury modern architecture in the United States, and it's no wonder: Long before Elvis stayed in his honeymoon hideaway and Frank Sinatra partied into the wee hours at his Twin Palms estate, this desert town ...

How much does it cost to build a MCM house? ›

Building a new, mid-century-style modern home costs between $300,000 to $1,250,000.

What kind of roofs do mid-century modern homes have? ›

Most modern homes built in this period are built in the Mid Century Ranch style which features a gabled roof. A True MidCentury Modern will have a low-slope or flat roof and highly stylized architectural features.

Do people still build mid-century modern homes? ›

Even some 60 years since its heyday, the style has endured and serves as the inspiration for many of today's most prominent trends. Instantly recognizable, homes built with midcentury modern designs continue to attract buyers who are looking for a contemporary layout with stylish finishes.

What kind of floors are mid-century modern? ›

For a mid-century modern floor, you can expect to see warm tones as well as lighter colors, and some simple geometric patterns as well. This style features concrete looks, smooth hardwood, large vinyl tiles.

Which US state has the most modern houses? ›

This type is the most common home in just four states, but one – California – is the nation's largest housing market. The modern style is marked by geometric but asymmetrical silhouettes, large windows and open floor plans. In addition to California, contemporary homes are common in Hawaii.

What age is a mid century home? ›

Midcentury modern homes were a popular architectural style between the 1940s and 1960s that emphasized minimalist shape design, open spaces and an unobstructed connection to natural surroundings. These homes are prized by enthusiasts and homeowners who appreciate their distinct style and historical significance.

Are mid-century modern homes a good investment? ›

Well-designed Mid Century Modern homes have tended to command a premium of 15-20% over similar, more traditional style homes. Their clean lines, open layouts and seamless indoor/outdoor casual way of living make them a perfect fit for how people want to live today.

Is mid-century modern going away? ›

While most design trends are cyclical (who would have ever thought Memphis design of the '80s would have a resurgence?), it's actually quite incredible that a movement that began in the mid-1940s—with influences in Europe dating back to even earlier in the 20th century—feels just as relatable and appealing today—and ...

Why do people like mid-century modern homes? ›

And these concrete representations of the cherished past remind us of who we are, keep the past alive in the present, evoke warm and positive feelings from simpler times, and provide a source of security and stability in a turbulent and unpredictable world.” So your midcentury obsession is actually a healthy activity.

How much does it cost to build a 3,000 sq ft house in South Carolina? ›

How much does it cost to build a house on land in South Carolina? It would cost about $150 to $300 per square foot to build a house in South Carolina. However, home-building costs depend on several other factors. These include property type, construction area, labor costs, etc.

Is MCM furniture a good investment? ›

Timeless design never goes out of style

The same is true for many mid-century design pieces. Their timeless style will pair well with any interior, from classic to contemporary, and because they will never go out of style, they will almost always be a good investment.

Is it cheaper to build or buy a house in CT? ›

Generally, buying a home is cheaper and faster. Cost to Build: Building a home can cost around $345,440 to $495,440, including land and additional expenses. Cost to Buy: The median sale price for a home in Connecticut is approximately $388,200 as of September 2023.

What are the two characteristics of mid-century modern? ›

Mid-century modern home decor is recognizable for its clean lines, a fusion of organic and manmade materials, and retro style.

What style is closest to mid-century modern? ›

You could think of mid-century modern as a sub-category housed under modern design. Because of that, there is some overlap. However, because the modern aesthetic umbrellas mid-century modern, it encompasses other elements, such as Scandinavian and minimalistic design styles.

What years are considered mid-century modern? ›

The century referred to in mid-century modern is the 20th, specifically the years immediately following the Second World War, from the mid-1940s to the late 1960s. During this time, North America enjoyed a booming real estate economy and a booming population.

What defines mid century modern style? ›

The key characteristics of midcentury modern include: Furnishings emphasize function over ornament. Lack of ornamentation in favor of simple geometric lines. Frequent use of teak, rosewood, and oak. Use of metal, glass, and vinyl.

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