There is no architectural style that embodies the California lifestyle quite like Mid-Century Modern. Popularized between the 1930s through the 1960s, the style is characterized by clean, contemporary aesthetics that border on the futuristic, and an emphasis on form and function.
Since its inception, the Mid-Century Modern movement has reverberated through different types of design including industrial, graphic design, product design, interior, and of course, architecture – the most well-known example.
Intertwining with the outdoors
A Mid-Century Modern home is designed to blend with nature, a key factor which makes the style fit flawlessly with Orange County’s incredible weather and stunning surroundings.
Mid-Century Modern architects often incorporate spacious floor plans and oversized windows, framing scenic views and allowing plenty of natural light to illuminate living spaces. In addition, entry points typically feature sliding glass doors, making it easier for residents to enjoy a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle.
The Lovell Beach House
One of the finest examples of modern architecture in Orange County is the Lovell Beach House, designed by legendary architect Rudolph Schindler. Nestled in Newport Beach’s Balboa Peninsula, the house is one of Schindler’s early works, along with the iconic Schindler House. Both houses are considered two of the most important pieces of early modern architecture in the country.
By Marvin Rand, photographer. – Library of Congress, Prints and Photograph Division, Historic American Buildings Survey Call number: CAL,30-NEWBE,1-1. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.
Completed in 1926, the oceanfront residence is situated in a dense neighborhood, close to The Wedge at Newport Harbor. Its living quarters are raised above ground level, sheltering it from the street on its west. The home’s upper level overlooks an open space, which reveals reinforced concrete frames forming a figure 8.
Inside, you’ll find a two-story living/dining room placed at the center, featuring large curtain wall windows facing the east and south side, towards the ocean. A breakfast area and kitchen features access to an oceanside terrace overlooking the garden. Second floor bedrooms are connected via a corridor which overlooks the main living room. All bedrooms originally featured access to an open sleeping porch, before Schindler revised a few plans in 1928.
Irvine Terrace Residence (Corona del Mar)
A more recent example of stunning modern architecture in the OC is the Irvine Terrace Residence, designed by award-winning architectural firm Wiley Architects, based in Newport Beach.
Boasting a classic modernist design, this Corona del Mar home makes use of simple forms combined with timeless materials to create a stylish and comfortable living environment. One of the home’s unique features is a flexible design that allows rooms to accommodate a variety of functions with spacious, open areas for family living and entertaining blending seamlessly with discrete zones designed for privacy.
The home was the winner of the 2013 AIA Orange County Design Award, and has been featured in numerous publications, including the Los Angeles Times, Wood Design & Building Magazine, and Borsen, a Danish publication.
You can find photos and other details about the home at Wiley Architects website here.
If you’re looking for more gorgeous modern homes in Orange County, check out some of the HAUSes that stoke us!
In the market for a modern home of your own in Orange County?
Coastal Modern Expert Todd Bousman and the bouHAUS properties is the best group to have at your side if you’re looking for a modern home in coastal Orange County! Get in touch with the team today by calling 949-533-8633 or sending an email to todd@bouHAUS.com
