The 1950s saw a distinct shift in architecture on the West Coast of America, towards the expression of mid-century modern styles. From sprawling split-level homes with large picture windows, to post-war, space-age homes, West Coast designers were eager to break away from the traditional and explore the possibilities offered by technological advances. Key mid-century modern West Coast house designs stand out as iconic expressions of the times, guaranteed to bring a unique look to any neighbourhood. Highly recognisable for their large windows, geometric lines, post-and-beam construction and a blend of modern and classic features, these homes boast an aesthetic appeal that still inspires modern homeowners and renovators today. Take a look at some of the most iconic mid-century modern West Coast house designs and get inspired to bring a touch of classic, tailored beauty to your own home.Mid-Century Modern West Coast House Designs
Mid-Century Modern West Coast House Designs
Post-war homes built in British Columbia in the late 1950s offered modernity, openness, and sleek lines that challenged traditional conventions in architecture. The use of wood, stone, and glass along with the liberal use of outdoor living spaces were in line with the Mid-Century Modern style, and many of these homes still stand today. The most iconic of these homes was built by the architect Eric Sessions, who was instrumental in bringing the Mid-Century Modern style to the West Coast. Sessions' homes still stand today, offering a unique illustration of how design has evolved over time. Post-War Homes in British Columbia, Canada
Post-War Homes in British Columbia, Canada
The Tilgner family is credited with shaping much of the West Coast architectural landscape in the post-war era with their unique blend of mid-century modern design and historic charm. They built homes of various sizes, from one-story stucco bungalows to grand three-story homes. Many of their homes still stand today, offering a glimpse into how stylish West Coast home design can be. The unique style of the Tilgner homes blended elements of classic and modern design, offering a unique touch to each structure. Characteristic features included picture windows, tongue-and-groove paneling, and an unmistakable indoor-outdoor flow.Tilgner West Coast Homes: Blending Mid-Century Modern Design & Historic Charm
Tilgner West Coast Homes: Blending Mid-Century Modern Design & Historic Charm
Home design is often thought of as a static phenomenon, refusing to change with the times. But the fact is, many of the most beloved mid-century modern homes on the West Coast have been updated and modernized for a new era. New materials, smart technologies, and updated building codes have enabled homeowners to bring a modern touch to old homes without compromising on the classic design elements that made them so beloved in the first place. Whether it's adding solar panels, installing energy efficient windows, or reconfiguring the kitchen, modernizing your mid-century West Coast home can be an exciting way to bring a new look to your home.Modernizing the West Coast Mid-Century Home
Modernizing the West Coast Mid-Century Home
Thought to be one of the first forms of mid-century modern architecture, the framing of West Coast homes was a process of breaking down traditional barriers between interior and exterior design. Floor plans were simplified and linear, and many West Coast homes featured full-length windows that allowed natural light to flood into the house. Due to their modern, streamlined designs, mid-century modern homes often featured flat roofs. Aside from providing extra light, these structures served as a symbolic challenge to the traditional West Coast housing designs that featured more complex rooflines. Framing the West Coast: Mid-Century Houses
Framing the West Coast: Mid-Century Houses
Los Angeles is often seen as the birthplace of mid-century modern architecture. While that statement can be argued, there is no denying the impact the city has had on the introduction and evolution of modern West Coast design. Famously, Los Angeles homes of the 1950s embraced open floor plans and natural ventilation for a breezy indoor-outdoor feel. Many of the homes also featured large windows and an abundance of natural materials, such as wood and stone. Plus, many of them were eco-friendly, even before that term existed.Blessed with Mid-Century Modern: Los Angeles West Coast Homes
Blessed with Mid-Century Modern: Los Angeles West Coast Homes
Named after its original owner, the Theweleit U-Shaped House on Vancouver Island has stood the test of time since its conception in the mid-1950s. Built for engineer and surveyor Max Theweleit, the house was an expression of mid-century modern principles and a demonstration of early 20th century form and function. The house features a skewed U-shaped layout, with lush gardens that complement the geometric lines of the house. Inside, the home showcases the principles of mid-century design, with an abundance of natural light, tall ceilings, and minimalistic accents.Theweleit U-Shaped House: Showcasing West Coast Mid-Century Modern Design
Theweleit U-Shaped House: Showcasing West Coast Mid-Century Modern Design
The fusion of mid-century modern and Scottish modernism in the West Coast of Canada created some truly unique buildings. By combining classic Scottish aesthetics with modern design principles, architects were able to create structures that embodied the atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest. Famous examples of this architectural style can be found across the British Columbia and Alberta region. From the bright, airy homes of Vancouver's West End, to the ornate facades of Banff lodges, the influence of Scottish-style architecture can be seen in the many iconic mid-century West Coast buildings that still stand today.Scottish Modernism Meets West Coast Mid-Century Design in Canada
Scottish Modernism Meets West Coast Mid-Century Design in Canada
West Coast housing designs evolved beyond the mid-century modern movement in the 1950s. As technological advances allowed for taller buildings, designers began to explore the possibilities offered by taller, more majestic structures. Tall and majestic West Coast homes began to appear in the 1960s. These homes featured large windows, wide open spaces, and a bold modern aesthetic that set them apart from the traditional West Coast dwellings. Many of these homes still stand and offer a unique take on mid-century modern design.Tall & Majestic: West Coast Mid-Century Modern Home Design
Tall & Majestic: West Coast Mid-Century Modern Home Design
In South Africa, the West Coast is no stranger to mid-century modern homes. Many prominent South African architects of the mid-20th century embraced the mid-century modern style and blended it with vernacular elements. The resulting designs were quite distinct, often featuring angular lines, bold colours, and exposed structural elements. Notable examples of mid-century modern homes in South Africa can be found in the city of Johannesburg, where local designers sought to incorporate the best of South African design with the new developments of the twentieth century.Bold & Brash: West Coast Mid-Century Modern South African Showcase
Bold & Brash: West Coast Mid-Century Modern South African Showcase
The West Coast of the United States and Canada has been home to many iconic mid-century modern homes. Here are four of the most iconic mid-century homes found on the West Coast:Four Examples of Mid-Century West Coast Home Design
Four Examples of Mid-Century West Coast Home Design
Do you Dream of Living in a Mid Century Modern West Coast House Design?
It can be hard to resist the alluring charm of mid century modern west coast housing designs. From the sleek and minimal lines, to the retro era inspired furnishings and decorations, it’s easy to see why this timeless style has been winning the hearts of millions for decades. Whether you desire to live in a
mid century modern home
or simply want to infuse some of the retro style into your existing house, learning more about these house designs can help you better reach your goals.
Nature-Inspired Architecture
One of the defining features of
west coast house designs
is their unique ability to draw inspiration from the beautiful nature that surrounds them. Outfitting the outdoor spaces in a mid century design can help to bring the indoors outdoors. Natural materials including brick, wood, and stone are often seen in outdoor patios, decks, driveways, and pathways to give visitors and residents a sense of relaxation and tranquility.
Integrating Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
When it comes to
mid century modern house design
, the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces is key to fully capturing its essence. Large windows can be implemented along the front and back of the house to offer tranquil views of the outside world while incorporating elements of nature within the home. Natural hardwood floors can be accompanied with area rugs that are inspired by the colors of the outdoors— think earthy greens, sky blues, and lush golds.
Outfitting with Retro and Modern Furniture
When it comes to decorating these home designs, implementing furniture and fixtures that mix retro and modern styles are essential in capturing the mid century aesthetic. A good rule of thumb is to mix different eras together. Contemporary couches and chairs can be accompanied by vintage-looking light fixtures, coffee tables, and area rugs for a space that captures a timeless charm.
Capturing the Alluring Charm of Mid Century Modern West Coast House Design
By utilizing a combination of materials, fixtures, and furniture that draw inspiration from the outdoors, you can strive to capture the unique charm and character that
mid century modern west coast house designs
bring. While these designs can be as simple or as extravagant as you’d like, we suggest doing more research into the topic before settling on a specific design for your home. By better understanding the aspects that make up these designs, you can create a space that offers tranquility, style, and unique allure.
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