Given modern architecture’s penchant for a minimalist approach, it’s hard to imagine a time when design elements like clean lines, open floor plans and floor-to-ceiling windows were revolutionary. But at the end of the 19th century, when architecture gradually moved away from traditions of ornamentation and decadence, the result was nothing short of a sensation. By the 1950s, after a chain of architectural movements that included rationalism, Bauhaus and minimalism, a new style emerged and grew into perhaps the most fashionable design trend in recent history—midcentury modern.
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.
Check out these timeless midcentury modern luxury listings on the market now:
Palm Springs, California (US $2.199 Million)
There is perhaps no city more often associated with midcentury modern than Palm Springs. The Southern California desert town has one of the most concentrated collections of preserved midcentury homes, including this 1956 masterpiece known as “the Palm Tree” House. Brimming with midcentury character, the 3,700-square-foot home features post-and-beam construction, tongue-and-groove ceilings and walls of glass. Other iconic cornerstones include clerestory windows, a floating terrazzo gas fireplace and sunken bar. With all that being said “the Palm Tree,” although quintessentially midcentury, also has a number of updates that bring it into the modern age. A new pool, spa and sundeck were installed in 2021 and the residence is outfitted with solar technology.
Las Vegas (US $4.775 Million)
Completely restored in 2021, this Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired estate blends all of the glamour of the midcentury with the novelty of a modern home. Located minutes away from the Las Vegas strip in the historic Scotch Eighties neighborhood of Las Vegas, the over 6,600-square-foot compound sits on a nearly 1.5-acre highly manicured lot. Impressive wood beams run throughout as well as other natural materials such as a stone-faced fireplace and marble flooring. Numerous outdoor spaces can be accessed via the home’s many glass sliding doors. The primary suite opens to a private covered patio with a hot tub and sauna. A car collector’s garage is spacious enough to store eight cars. Apart from updating the interiors, the restoration also included the addition of 1,800 square feet of living space.
Los Angeles (US $5.25 Million)
A melting pot of many architectural styles, Los Angeles has its fair share of midcentury modern masterpieces, many of which are located throughout the storied neighborhoods of the Hollywood Hills. One such neighborhood, The Bird Streets, where this midcentury gem is located, is particularly known for its stunning renovations of 1960s homes. Having recently undergone a top-to-bottom renovation, the 2,800-square-foot refined residence on Rising Glen Road could be mistaken for new construction. Only a select few elements, such as the oversized windows and clean, geometrical exterior, harken back to the home’s midcentury origins. Other notable features include a glass ceiling entryway, theater room and sleek, sun-drenched pool.
Senneville, Quebec (US $4.33 Million)
Built in 1967 at the tail-end of the height of midcentury modern’s popularity, this distinguished mansion in the suburban village of Senneville on the western tip of the Island of Montreal displays a range of architectural inspirations. Midcentury touches such as interior floor-to-ceiling windows, a wood slat wall and floating staircase blend with more traditional elements including weeping brick, a neoclassical kitchen and herringbone wood floors. The home’s brick exterior brings to mind the prairie style pioneered by Frank Lloyd Wright. All of this culminates into a unique residence spanning a sprawling 14,500 square feet. Amenities include a traditional sauna, movie theater and wine cellar.
Austin, Texas (Price By Request)
Homes like this 2019 Bryker Woods modern abode are an example of the continued desire for midcentury aesthetics in today’s market. Draped in hand-crafted oak paneling throughout the interior and exterior, the 2,500-square-foot home seamlessly integrates indoor to outdoor spaces. A xeriscape courtyard centers the home with access via a movable wall of glass. The organic feel is furthered by other wood elements found in wall accents, cabinetry and wide-paneled oak floors. A sculptural metal suspended fireplace signals the home’s midcentury influence. Although designed with sleek simplicity in mind, the Austin residence is not without modern comforts, including walk-in closets, a plunge pool and spa and breakfast bar.
Carpinteria, California (US $3.2 Million)
A popular offshoot of the classic midcentury modern style, the midcentury ranch, showcases the same clean lines and airy spaces but with a touch of rustic charm. Situated on a stunning 7 coastal acres, this Cliff May-inspired ranch is surrounded by mountains and sea, with exceptional views of both. A gabled end wall of glass frames the rural California grounds that include 5 acres of avocado orchards, cherimoya and other fruit trees. Skylights line the white wood-beamed ceilings throughout the home’s many gathering spaces. Amenity spaces include a photographic dark room, wine cellar and living room wet bar.