In this post, I will be talking about the design background and my concept for my project. As an initial idea, I consider 60s architecture. Later, after researching more, I found more information pointing out that what I consider the 60s style is actually called mid-century architecture. This style was more centred around the 50s and 60s and uses elements from different styles and combines them together, but concentrates more on nature. Some of the elements are: big windows, absence of ornaments and modest use of curves, smooth lines that are shown as functionality. The planning and design also pay a lot of attention to utility and need. This type of design was implemented after World War II due to its focus on need. (Mutili,2025)
Both Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius were pioneers in the style of international modernism, which later opened the doors to the mid-century style. They moved to the United States to teach and help popularise the style. This style also uses several materials in its designs, such as moulded plywood and vinyl, but additionally, some organic materials such as wood, leather and stone. The idea of this style about new technological advancement is the following: "Technology also features prominently in Mid-Century Modern houses as a tool for creativity, innovation, and efficiency, which is famous for the style." (Mutili, 2025)
Farnsworth House is the most accurate example of a mid-century architectural design. The house, located in Plano, Illinois, architect Mies van der Rohe from 1945 to 1951, covering design standards of the style, functionality, and technology elements. The lines that express the "less is more" (Mutili, 2025) are needed in the style. The glass and windows are what give this design its uniqueness and help to create the environment and building connection.
Another topic that inspired my design was '1960 house plans. 'A while ago, I read a magazine that had a style similar to the 60s, so I named it like that, but they are called according to Jackson, M "Savor Midcentury Modern house plans" found in the Building Technology Heritage Library (BTHL), the catalogue portrays 120 designs of modern architecture houses this style being similar to what I am looking for my project.
Mutuli, I. (2023). Mid-Century Modern Architecture: History, Features, And Examples. [online] Archute. Available at: https://www.archute.com/mid-century-modern-architecture/.[Accessed 7 Apr. 2025].
Hughes, D.T. (2016). 1950s Mid-Century Portland House Remodelled by Jessica Helgerson Interior Design. [online] Yellowtrace. Available at: https://www.yellowtrace.com.au/jessica-helgerson-1950s-portland-house-remodel/ [Accessed 7 Apr. 2025].
Davies, R. (2023). Midcentury-Modern Architecture: Everything You Should Know About the Funky and Functional Style. [online] Architectural Digest. Available at: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/midcentury-modern-architecture-everything-you-should-know.
author/mike-jackson (2019). Groovy House Designs From the 1960s. [online] Architect. Available at: https://www.architectmagazine.com/design/groovy-house-designs-from-the-1960s_o [Accessed 13 Apr. 2025].
Estes, H.T., c.1960. Prize Homes. Northridge, Calif.: Nationwide Plan Book Co.
Berkeley CED. n.d. Prize Homes by Hiawatha T. Estes. [online] Available at: https://exhibits.ced.berkeley.edu/exhibits/show/stockoptions/resources/players [Accessed 7 Apr. 2025].
This is quite minimal on the Van der Rohe House you could have said a lot more and related more to your own design
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