Mid-Century Modern Utah

Butterfly::Springville

2009-03-18T00:25:00.007-06:00

UPDATE:: This home is now FOR SALE! Contact me if you're interested in keeping or restoring this home: jetset dot azucar at gmail dot com. Good neighborhood, incredible views.

A first for MCM Utah--a home in Springville.

I rarely get down to Art City, but on an evening trip a couple weeks ago I noticed an amazing MCM home. As I drove around the neighborhoods, even more houses popped out at me. I decided I needed to go back during the day to snap a few pictures. Around that time a friend told me that I'd love a Springville home that is in her family. We went to check it out one fine morning, and what a find!

Yes, that's a residential butterfly roof. Incredibly lovely.

The house is a neutral colored brick, with barn red siding, and mint trim. I love the graduated windows and the use of the lot.

You can see both a garage (in mint/aqua) and a carport. The driveway slopes slightly down from the street, taking advantage of the lot.  Notice the small windows on the western facade. These days we'd probably put large windows in their place, but in the late 50s, when this house was built, smaller windows on an exposed western side would have provided better energy efficiency.  The plants must be original as well. Those yuccas were probably planted to give the house the Palm Springs feel.  In fact, all of the plants are period--what a trip!

I'm entirely enchanted by this house--which my friend assures me is mostly vintage condition minus an 80s kitchen remodel) Whoever placed the house did so to echo and frame the mountains behind the home.

I don't know what it is about a butterfly roof, but they just enchant me.

Sourcing::Vintage Stoves

2009-02-19T01:05:00.005-07:00

Spotted:

Vintage Wedgewood Stove at Joe's Appliance

I needed a replacement part for my new Frigidaire front-loader and decided it would be faster to get it at a place in town rather than online ordering. After a call to make sure they had the part, I hauled the kids down to the shop. I've never been there before, and what a treat for a mechanical junkie like me. Sure there were the usual collection of late model appliances, but this Wedgewood stove in nearly perfect condition caught my eye.

Shh, I've got a crush on it.

I asked Joe the owner if I could take a picture of it. He seemed surprised and agreed. Like most service guys, Joe loves the old models and has a few hanging around at all times. He took me into a side room to show me a fantastic streamline stove that was used as a prop in a period movie.

I've gotten some mail from people looking to sell their vintage appliances; it's worth giving him a call to see if he's interested. If you need a vintage piece, I'd recommend a browse at the shop.

In looking for info on the stove, just by the design it's either late 40s (probably '48 at the earliest) or very early 50s--no later than '52. You can tell from the way the door handle curves that we're on the cusp of some serious rounding of the iron doors, but haven't committed. I think the straight legs and the serious profile (vs. streamlining) is a dead-giveaway for circa 1950.

What a great piece.

North Timpview :: Black, White, and Hillside

2009-01-12T21:45:00.011-07:00

I have loved this house for years.

The house is built into the hillside on a remarkably clean piece of land. I love the symmetry of the house; the balanced wings, the exact lower level. Notice the beams on the highest roof level and the integrated window mullions.

One of these days I'll invest in a better camera to capture the architectural details. The black and white (although it's really a deep brown) make the house look fresh and crisp.

I've actually been inside this house since a friend of mine grew up here, and her parents still own the property. The place is perfectly preserved late 60s to 70s modern with paneling and shag. Pristine!

Eames::Twisting the Classics

2008-10-21T01:38:00.011-06:00

Tonight on Gossip Girl I noticed an Eames lounge chair in a non-traditional fabric.  First of all, it was fabric, secondly, it was some sort of repeating zig-zag.  I had to rewind the scene a couple times, and then I had to go back to listen to what the actors were saying.

In fact, it's not the only lounge chair in a fabric I've spotted lately: Dr. House on House also has one upholstered in a super-wide wale corduroy.

How do we feel about the iconic Eames lounge chair in something other than an 'estate-approved' covering?

Fantastic and innovative re-do or scary and inappropriate messing about?

Children:: Pint-sized Retro Kitchen

2008-10-09T00:47:00.003-06:00

I just about died when I saw this adorable 50s play kitchen at my local Costco. I think they were asking about $130. We don't have the space, or the kids who would be that into a play kitchen. If you do, how adorable would this look tucked into a corner?

Signs :: Thai Village AF

2008-07-18T13:46:00.003-06:00

I spotted this great sign on the back of the Thai Village restaurant in American Fork. I love the streamline look of the sign, with its rounded corners and graduated step shoulders. You can see from the holes around the lettering where the light bulbs would have been. Don't you love the font?

Ginger-Crazy for this House::MCM Holidays

2008-01-09T23:45:00.001-07:00

A friend sent me a link to the cutest gingerbread house I have ever seen.

If that doesn't warm your cockles, what else will (don't say a Brandy Alexander)? I'm hoping that Red Envelope will still carry the coolest gingerbread house I've ever seen next year.

Christmas::2007

2008-01-01T01:03:00.000-07:00

I went a little modern crazy with Christmas this year.

Somehow, the turquoise blue and red obsession overtook me. I knew we were past snowball and well into avalanche when I found wrapping paper that matched the tree; the paper rocks.

And then, I crafted. Oh, did I craft!

I haven't put a wreath on the door in a very long time. I could never find a wreath I liked, something that didn't scream rustic and traditional. I'm sorry, traditional is fine for someone else's house, but not mine. I saw a yarn-wrapped wreath and decided that the idea might be just the ticket.

I glued some styrofoam pieces to a styro wreath and cut away the excess to form an offset oval interior. I think the only thing the wreath needs is a big satin bow at the top to balance the rest of the look. Maybe we should add some more with the bird. Maybe I should stop while I'm ahead.

Last year, I made stockings for the family. When I brought out the stockings my son said to me, "But there are only three stockings, who doesn't get one?" Point taken, little one, point taken. Even though it took me a month to work on the other stockings, I pulled this one together in just a couple hours on Christmas Eve (because it's not like I was doing anything else. Pffff.)

I think I really like it.

Design*Sponge had a modern Christmas craft that I noticed at the beginning of December. I loved the idea of a mobile hanging, especially over a table. I didn't do much to Christmas-up my kitchen, so I thought one big piece would do it. Additionally, you can see the mobile from the living room, so it helps the whole space flow. I love how the mobile turned out. I have to say, however, that even though the glass ornaments were hanging from the ceiling, there were several casualties.

I picked up the window lights from IKEA and they were the talk of the neighborhood. People loved them! My husband's circadian rhythms were completely knocked for a loop, so that was an unexpected bonus.

I just loved my tree this year. It has even more birds, ornaments, and lights than last year and I am OK with that. I am fabulous with that.

What's more mid-century than a Radio Flyer Red Wagon for Christmas?

Merry Christmas little one!

Stadium North::Standouts

2007-05-29T14:54:00.001-06:00

In the first Stadium North post I mentioned that there were some new homes. Check out this silly house:

Does anything want to make you start the revolution like twisted brick columns? Like, gag me with a spoon. It's sad, because right across the street is this example of a really elegant modern home.

I like the home's low profile and all the windows on the front facade.

Then there is this house which makes me giggle. Come on, it's aqua stone! You have to love it! I'd live there, that's for sure.

Whoever has updated the house went with an ill-conceived new door that is too traditional to fit the rest of the home:

But I still like the aqua stone. Rock on.

Stadium North::Another That Got Away

2007-05-29T14:45:00.003-06:00

Here's another house I didn't buy. It was for sale a couple years ago for 177k, which I thought was too much. Silly, silly me. Knowing that the same house would now sell in the 250s, at least, I'm annoyed at myself. It's a tough prospect: how do you know exactly when to jump into the market?

In the meantime, I drive past this house, perched on the hill across from the stadium, and kick myself.

I like how the wood exterior of the house melds with the landscape. The blue trim accentuates the butterfly roof and ties in a feeling of sky.

Stadium North::Sumac

2007-05-28T13:55:00.001-06:00

It's about time we started looking at houses again. Today we're looking at the Stadium North area which includes Sumac Avenue and some straggling tree streets. The neighborhood is both north of the LaVell Edwards Stadium and east of BYU's Marriot Center. It's a highly prized area with old growth and some really great modern homes. There are some newer homes as well, and some remodels that are quite shameful.

I've had my eyes on this home for a while. I noticed a couple weeks ago that it appeared to be undergoing some renovation and I wondered if it would be up for sale soon. When I drove up to take pictures there was a young couple out front doing some repair work.
I asked: it's a family home that they're moving into and they're just doing some updates. They seem to be staying with the ethos, which is great. The couple was also really kind to let some stranger barge up and ask to take pictures. Thanks guys! I love their house. I was negligent and didn't get a side profile of the home which really shows off the soaring cantilevered rooflines.

I like the large corner window on this house. If you look closely, you can see the colored panels that are set into the masonry at the center of the house. Those panels match the color on the carport roof. Speaking of the roof, I think I detect the barest of a butterfly in the line. I bet the edging on the lawn is original.

This is a later mid-century modern house. I would place the house in the late 60s. It looks blank from the front, but from the sides you can see the windows that are tucked into the facades. The rear of the house will have dozens of windows that open onto the private backyard.

I liked this little modern house. You can see the sweeping pitched roofline that runs the length of the home. The home is a nice mix of brick masonry, paneling, and stone accents on the chimney and the garage. This kind of pitched line is a nice way to be practical to the climate vs. a flat roof--although those flat roofs are just beautiful.

Yeah, that's the ticket!

Is it wrong of me to hope that whenever I see a place with a little over grown landscaping it will go up for sale soon? A girl can dream! I love the way the house's roofline staggers into the carport's.

This house is really close to the Marriot Center. I think it's a great example of a traditional ranch house with some fun architectural details that add interest but don't detract from the egalitarian feel of the house.

Love those horizontal windows next to the door!

More to come!

fabric::laurie smith on sale

2007-03-05T16:02:00.000-07:00

I have consistently found some great modern fabrics at Hancock Fabrics. Today while searching for some baby sling material, I wandered accidentally on-purpose into the home fabrics sale area and just about stopped breathing.

The gorgeous fabrics that Laurie Smith of Trading Spaces fame produced are on sale/clearance for $3.99 a yard. THREE NINETY-NINE. That's marked down, in some cases, all the way from $31.99. I included a bunch of swatches in this post a while back. I don't know if the bolts are still around where you live, but at least the store in Orem, Utah had a great selection. If only I had the time to redo some of the rooms in my house entirely.

car seat::how to

2007-02-28T16:24:00.000-07:00

After Erin asked about a pattern for the car seat, I thought I'd explain how I actually made it.

This isn't a difficult sewing project, but you should have some experience with shaping and an understanding of how things fit together. I wouldn't try this if this is a first sewing project or you're not comfortable with spatial relationships. I didn't have a pattern, but I did have the cover. This is kind of a "point of no return" project. I looked at the cover and figured out that it was three pieces: a top section, a bottom, and a foot piece that wraps around the actual seat. I took it apart at the joining seams. Once I took it apart, I laid it out just as it had been sewn together and this is what it looked like:

You can see how the pieces look like they curve opposite of each other. This allows the cover to curve around the seat. You can either cut the shapes out of newspaper to make a pattern, or just place the cover on the new fabric and trace. You'll need to figure extra for seam allowances. In my case, I had to figure even more since the cover had shrunk in the wash. The hood was the same way; using it as a pattern to cut another.

Materials:
I used one yard of fabric for the seat, half a yard of a matching fabric for the hood, and one yard of a backing fabric (like cotton duck.) I also purchased some 1/4" batting, and ended up deciding to make it three-ply. You shouldn't over-stuff the cover as that can be dangerous to the functionality. Make sure you launder your fabrics before starting.

Process:
After you've cut the pieces out (one each of the front fabric and the backing, three of the batting.) work on the cover in those portions. It's best to finish each section separately and then join them all together. Make sure you're using your seat as a guide to how the cover will fit, trimming and tailoring as necessary.

First, sew the fabric, right side out, with the batting and the backing together. I used a 1/4" seam. Then, using the seat as your guide, lay the top section into the seat and mark where the creases are. I sewed two lines on either side, through the batting and backing, to allow the section to fit in a tailored fashion. You should be able to see this method just by looking at the original seat cover. You'll then mark the cover with where the straps will go. I used my button-hole settings to create the slits.
Repeat this for the top and bottom sections.
The foot piece is simply lined with the backing, no batting, before it's attached. Pin and sew all the sections together.

The hood is simple once you look at the construction of the original. There is an elastic at the back to catch on the seat. I sewed a tube by folding the fabric in the middle once. That created a space for the small rib to enter. I just used the plastic rib from the original hood. You'll also need to make a folded over section for the main hood support. Really, it's not hard to do, you'll just need to see how the original hood worked.

Now you can trim the outside edges as you desire. In my example, I used my secondary fabric. I cut out 2.5" width strips in lengths. I had measured around the seat and knew how long the strips would have to be. I sewed the strips together and folded both edges to the middle to create a finished trim. I used a flexible iron-on interfacing on the inside of the strips, but that's not necessary.

After the three pieces from the cover are sewn together, you can attach the trim.

Once you've trimmed the cover, you should take the plastic tabs from the original and attach them in the right places on the back of the new cover. I had to sew the tabs on by hand since my machines isn't exactly industrial.

Your cover should fit snugly onto the seat.

car seat::new idea

2007-02-26T01:23:00.000-07:00

What is it with these baby product designers? They think that we've lost our sense of style and taste once we acquire children. I never liked our car seat but it was the best of a particularly bad bunch.

Note the plaid and the gingham trim on the hood. Isn't it awful?

Sadly, I can't throw away items that are serviceable, even if I can't stand the design. I almost did a little jig the day my mother-in-law accidentally put the cover through the washer and dryer, shrinking it and rendering it useless. It stayed ugly.

So when I knew we had a new person on the way I had to get a new cover. I did try to find an approved cover but couldn't locate one. I then priced out custom covers online. *Cough* I'm not about to pay $80 bucks for something I could do myself, I reasoned. So that's what I did.

I found a really great modern patterned fabric in the upholstery section for 50% off.

I picked out two matching fabrics for the seat, the hood, and the trim.

It's a more comfy and a better fabric than my original seat, not to mention a much better design.

I think it turned out pretty well.

Adler::On Sale!

2007-01-17T01:08:00.000-07:00

Our budget has been a little tight lately and I have been sad that I can't buy as much useless crap as I usually do. Today, while at Bed, Bath and Beyond (I hate that name, I really do) I was picking up a wedding gift for a friend when I ran across something marvelous.

My BFF Jonathan Adler has a Happy Home line at BB&B. These adorable placemats were on clearance...

for a QUARTER a piece! I paid a whole dollar for the last four matching mats they had. Let this be a lesson to me that good and fun design can be found at reasonable prices, if one is willing to set foot inside BB&B.

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-25T23:21:00.000-07:00

I have been terribly remiss and I am apologizing. I thought that for the holiday I'd share my craft project. I looked around the web and in stores trying to find some mid-century Christmas stockings that I didn't hate and I came up empty handed. That was when I had the hare-brained idea to just make some myself. A few trips to the fabric store later for felt and notions, and I was happily crafting away. After I had invested in the felt, etc., I found West Elm featuring some fun stockings--oh well!

The good thing is that I think these cost me less than comparably priced stockings and I've had a lot of fun making them over the past month.

I did take some clues from the brilliant Jonathan Adler and embraced a "Happy Chic" ethos during creation.

The three results. I just loved these birds and so did my son. He kept stealing them to play with until I attached them to the felt. After that, I had to hide the stocking until Christmas Eve.

I got a touch carried away with the hand-sewn sequins and matching metallic thread.

A more masculine look, I was inspired by a stocking I saw at Garnet Hill, but I tried to put a new spin on the design. I changed it from country-based to something a little more modern.

I love the embroidered graphic elements and the beading.

Finally, my favorite stocking of them all (mine.) This one is the most Adler of them all. It's a little much, but I love it.

The starbursts have little pom-poms or beads.

No pinking on this stocking, I think it would have put it way over the top. However, I couldn't resist the silver rick-rack.

Maybe this will give you some inspiration to craft your own MCM objects d'arte. Happy Holidays to one and all!

Demolition::The BYU Alumni House

2006-05-30T08:48:00.000-06:00

Another wrecking ball was raised this morning when Brigham Young University began the demolition of the Alumi House. The center of fundraisings, Alumni Relations, and the coordinated pick up of caps and gowns for two generations, this beautiful 1962 building is now half in rubble. BYU’s board doesn’t allow a building to be built without the destruction of another. I suppose this is to keep campus in a small foot print, but it has made for a continual churn through architectural styles and periods. Few buildings withstand the onslaught of progress. The Maesar building stands as one of the few edifices to receive a remodel instead of a razing. It was a close call for the Maesar, which stands on the edge of the hill overlooking Provo. Can you imagine campus without the glorious marble of the Maesar?

I was deeply saddened when the Smith Family Living Center was demolished several years ago: the mosaic covered exterior columns, the terrazzo floors, the low step down lounge with its clean-lined couches on elegant legs. Yeah, it was a funny building, but it was gorgeous. I wish there was a way to retrofit these buildings to serve the needs of campus instead of a policy of raze-as-we-go. Is the new building with its underground parking and roman arches interesting? Sure. Although I think the exterior of the building is kind of hack-ish, the interior spaces are somewhat redeeming. However, the new building will never equal the elegance of the SFLC.

So this morning, as a dedication to the grinding wheel of progress, I present these pictures of the Alumni House, taken hours before the dust started to rise:

Note the two story entrace, including the windows that perfectly reflect Rock Canyon.

The South facing reception area with a courtyard. Beautiful cantilevered roofline.

I love the grid pattern of the windows, so early 60s.

I love that this photo shows how you could see through the building, from one side to the other. It gives the person inside the building the feeling of being a part of nature, but still protected from the elements. It really was a graceful building. Do any of you remember going to wedding receptions at the Alumni House? I remember the nut cups.

This picture was taken from the demolition cam. As you can see, the reception area with its cantilevered roof is the only portion still standing. As of 9:30 this morning the remainder of the building had already been demolished.

Here is the architectural rendering of the new Alumni House:

BLECH. Could it be anymore boring? No, Chandler, it probably couldn't.

Well, at least it doesn't look like this abomination found on 9th East these days. Mr. Carson would be so unhappy.

Not to get too off-topic, but whose stupid idea was this building? What is this? L.A. circa 1987? Who approved this mess? I have some choice words I'd like to exchange with that moron.

UPDATE::3:50PM

Nothing but rubble.

MCM::My Dream House

2006-03-19T00:05:00.002-07:00

It looks like we might be getting our own part of the MCM dream. We’ve put an offer in on this house. Isn’t it gorgeous? The architect that built it for his family is now selling it after 45 years. The thought and design of the place are just breathtaking. I used to drive by the house and think, “Why isn’t that house for sale?” One day I drove by and it was for sale. I went to tour the house and fell in love. As the real estate agent led me into the place she said, “Now, this place has a lot of potential, you could change a lot.” I nearly cried, “I wouldn’t change a thing!” It is perfectly preserved Mid-Century Modern.

I hadn’t thought I would get a MCM house at this time in my life—let alone one designed and built by an architect for his family. Those of you who are MCM enthusiasts know that the holy grail of house design is an architect-built home. I'm pinching myself (then again, the thought of that mortgage payment is giving me heartburn.)

There are so many little details that bespeak the modern nature of the home. The home has two furnaces, one for living areas, one for sleeping. The architect planned the situation of the house on the land to passively gather the winter sun to heat the house, yet it's shielded from the summer sun. Once again, the public front of the home has smaller windows while the rear of the home is practically all windows. The eaves are cantilevered, the roofline is stepped to match the lot, and check out the contrast between the local bricks and the blue painted redwood trim.

We offered, they accepted, it’s time to pull the financing together. I’m so nervous! House warming party?

**Sorry to disappoint any newcomers, but we didn't end up getting the house. Every time I look at this post I'm a little sad!

Googie::Atomic Fun

2006-02-27T12:18:00.000-07:00

If I say 50s design, chances are that the images you conjure up are filled with Googie. Great name isn't it? The Googie design movement exemplified the optimism of the post-war modern period with exaggerated pop art forms. Hotels, bowling alleys, gas stations, all of these public areas displayed the exuberance of Googie. Space age themes and bold graphics are common. Googie is primarily associated with Southern California (most likely because the post-war regional boom coincided with the popularity of Googie) but examples are found all over the country. The Seattle Space Needle may be the singlemost identifiable Googie landmark.

Utah has its own Googie landmarks. I was in driving to Park City a month ago and captured this image on my way through Heber.

Mac's Motel has kept the original sign although the surrounding buildings have been updated. Several iconographic Googie motifs are featured in the sign. The boomerang shape is typically Googie, as are the bright colors.

In this photo you can see the pink neon of the sign as well as the green neon of the accent. Neon in bright colors is particularly Googie. If you look closely you can tell that the green neon is only one circle of an atom, a definite Googie giveaway. Swooping cantilevered rooflines, atomic/sputnik symbols, boomerangs, playful lettering, neon, saturated bright colors like pink, aqua, blues, and greens, are all hallmarks of the style.

Sadly, many Googie sites have fallen into disrepair. The Hillcrest Motel on south State Street in Orem is one such example. Located on the corner of 1700 South, the motel will probably be demolished soon. The oval/organic shape of the lettered sign is another typically Googie look. Organic leaf shapes are a modern take on incorporating natural elements into a design that essentially celebrates the man made. The offset lettering is also indicative of Googie. The "Motel" would have been lit by a hundred small lightbulbs made to mimic neon. Look at the design on the doors, the diamond shape carrying the Googie feel in every detail of the motel.

There's no question that this motel will be gone soon. The windows have been broken or removed, the interiors are damaged and uninhabitable. Be sure to drive past to appreciate the architecture before this faded Googie landmark is gone forever.

Roadsidepeek has assembled some great pictures of Utah Googie bowling alleys. Included is Jack & Jill Bowling in American Fork. If you have a chance, visit Lindon's only bowling alley on State Street right before Los Hermanos for a gorgeously preserved Googie bowling experience.

For more fun examples of preserved googie click here.

Edgemont Elementary::MCM beginnings

2006-02-16T22:56:00.000-07:00

No wonder I am a MCM nut; my early Alma Mater is a pinnacle of Mid-Century design. May I introduce you to Edgemont Elementary?

In case you can't see it here's a close up of that beautiful butterfly roof:

Not many rooflines elicit heart-pounding like the butterfly. Perhaps you noticed the butterfly roof of the Incredibles' house in The Incredibles? Their house may be the best thing about that movie (and it was a good movie, too!) Provo has its own example of a butterfly right out in the open, along 3750 North and about 630 East. Next time you're driving by take a look.

The other specific mid-century feature are the inline stacked windows. You can see an example below.

Note the simplicity of the stacked windows that follows the function. Windows can be opened individually allowing fresh air to invigorate the young minds that study just on the other side of that glass. The windows actually tilt. How cool is that? Actually, in the first days of school in August, it's not cool, but the windows help.

A little further East is the addition to the school.
You can tell from the peaked roofline that it was built later than the original school. However, they did a good job of matching the bricks and keeping the lower rooflines of the previous structure. Even if the roof is peaked (twice!) the profile is continuous with the older portions. Edgemont Elementary is the perfect example of Mid-Century design in a public works project. Just a few years ago the school district was considering shutting Edgemont down. I'm so glad they didn't. The school probably would have been demolished and some stupid faux Tuscan villas built on top of the ravaged foundation. Still, appreciate the structure while you can.

Thomas O'Brien::On Sale

2006-02-05T00:18:00.000-07:00

Thomas O'Brien, Target's "Vintage Modern" guest designer, has a bunch of things on sale right now. Including this Opal Spiral lamp marked down from 49.99 to 12.98. That is not a typo. The picture was taken today, so you know at least a few are left. Better be there early Monday morning.

Furniture::Love At First Sight

2006-01-27T23:36:00.000-07:00

In a fit of cleaning out old pieces of furniture that I hate, I freecycled a dresser that I have despised for eight years. After getting rid of it, I realized that there was nothing to put the TV on in the back room. I jimmy-rigged something, but it did not meet toddler code. I decided to check Savers and then DI for something to meet our entertainment needs. I walked into Savers and this little number met my eyes across a crowded room.

Hello gorgeous! Only seven dollars and with storage to boot. My stars must be aligned. Welcome home.

Update::Everyone is in Love

The stand is apparently good for watching TV too. Whoever said MCM doesn't work for families hasn't met our family.

Dream House::1095 Mountain Ridge Lane

2006-01-17T22:17:00.000-07:00

The first time I consciously noticed this home was two and a half years ago. I was on my way to a wedding at the end of Little Rock Drive. Little Rock meanders along the ridge of the Edgemont Hills and the wedding was on the crest of a hill. Across a ravine is the perpendicular bench. It was close to sunset and the light was that late summer glow without the haze. I gasped when I saw this house gleaming in the sun.

You can't really tell from this picture, but the house cantilevers out on several different levels and angles back along the façade. Although this house doesn't meld into its site like other mid-century homes, I love the sheer ostentation of it. It's meant to be a show piece home. The Overtons used to own it, and then Marie Osmond. So if this house doesn't get you into Provo Society, nothing will.

Now that you've noticed the back of the house, the one that faces West for the incredible lake and valley views, isn't the front entrance totally understated? I love that it's at the end of the lane. That the house looks like a rambler instead of a mansion. The façade echoes the rear elevations, angling over and over, with a window at each end. It's truly a unique home that despite its size, I want, want, want.

Money Is No Object::2nd Ed::Second Home

2006-01-17T22:01:00.000-07:00

I ran across Modern Living Spaces a few months ago and couldn't find my way back to it. Since then, I've been obsessing about this community where they are building brand new Mid-Century homes. Granted, the community is in the Mid-Century Mecca of Palm Springs, CA, so it's a little far from my base of operations. Since I was asked by a friend recently to spotlight some good options for second homes near world reknown golf courses, I knew I had to find Modern Living Spaces again (Ok, Ok, there was no 'friend,' it was me.) I've dreamed of buying the plans to one of those houses and building my dream house for like $100,000. That would be awesome (and ridiculously implausible.)
However, aren't they fun to look at? Go check out the floor plans!

Money Is No Object::1st Ed::Appliances

2006-01-17T00:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome to an occasional series that I've entitled "Money Is No Object." Title is self-explanatory.

I've been a touch obsessed with vintage restored appliances lately. No one restores appliances for modern use like Antique Appliances in Georgia. These are not reproductions, they are original pieces that have been lovingly restored for every day use. From what I've read, these appliances sometimes are better at cooking and cooling than new items. If you're concerned with energy efficiency (for environmental reasons, obviously, not the cash, because you just spent six grand on a fridge) the housing, electrical, and other components are completely replaced yielding a model equal to or better than modern equivalents for efficiency. In addition to mid-century pieces, the site covers most eras. I especially love the Deco models for their streamlined beauty. They price their pieces as though fully restored; you can even choose the colors and finishes. To Die For. Why buy a Viking or a SubZero when you could have one of these:

This white Roper Town & Country range is my dream appliance. Eight burners, three ovens, warming drawers, center grill/griddle, matching salt and pepper shakers, oh oh oh oh. The pull out crumb trays and grease trap from griddle. I never though I'd be so excited about a grease trap. The broilers and warming drawers.What do you think? It's only $11,500. Should I have it done in pink? Aqua? Alabaster? Mint?

2006-01-11T00:14:00.000-07:00

For Sale Notice::2875 N

Hooray! One of my favorite mid-century houses is for sale by owner. If you're in the market for a really cute house that is borded on one side by Canyon Rd., look no further! I've admired the slanted roofline of this little home for years. Fully fenced, only one set of owners. They just drove it to the church and to the store. Although, considering there's a grocery store in walking distance, you'd never have to drive to the store again (Let's be honest, you're going to drive anyway.) Isn't it nice to look at some green grass and blue skies at this time of winter?

So cute.

2005-12-26T21:53:00.000-07:00

Wallcandy::Update

I threw up the wallcandy tonight. It took about 15 minutes, max, to place them on the wall. I got a digital camera so the pictures will improve.

This is the first version. I may do some rearranging.

2005-12-22T00:12:00.000-07:00

Wrapping::A Better Idea

If you're like me (and let's face it, I'm sorry, you are) you're tired of generic wrapping paper. You settle for whatever's on sale and, if you're lucky, it may slightly satiate your design desires. I have a better idea. Why not drive down to XPEDX where I found these cool retro wrapping papers:

Look, Clarks! You could match your paper with your house! Martha eat your heart out!

And after your presents are wrapped with this delicious multi-purpose-holiday-transcending-paper, they will look like this:

I won't kid, they aren't cheap. You will spend 16 for a roll. Why! That's highway robbery, I hear you say! No, I counter, it's like a million square feet. You will be wrapping presents in this paper for years, and that, my friend, is not hyperbole. So invest in a wrapping paper in a neutral pattern, like the silver with the graphic squares that I selected, and wrap all your happy birthdays in modern pulp love.

2005-12-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

Flexi-Walls::WallCandy

I wanted to make something for the walls in my son's room that wouldn't take too much time. We're thinking of moving in the next few months, so I couldn't do anything that would reduce the sale value of my house. I was going to paint a mural in his room, but I knew that when we move it would just be painted over. All that time and heart spent for some couple to decide that white is preferable. And then I found a portable solution!

It's called Wallcandy. They are low tack stickers that you can reposition and reuse. When we move I'll just take them along! You can check it out here.

Yes, a package is $58, but if you think about it, you'd spend at least $30 on paint and supplies to replicate the look, plus all that time to not get the circles perfectly round on the walls. Then the extra $20 you'd have to spend to cover it with some boring white paint when you left the house.

I can't wait to do this to his room:

2005-12-10T23:56:00.000-07:00

3700 North::Alone In A Crowd

I have been reprimanded for not updating this blog enough. So for all of you who have taken the time to track me down in person and strongly recommend that I update, this one’s for you.

If you are so inclined, you can find this home on 3700 North in Provo right before the light on University Avenue. This specific home was one of my first conscious recognitions of mid century style. Well, I wasn’t as impressed by it as I was confused by it. This house has a doorknob that is in the center of the front door.

For years while driving past the house I would note this design anomaly and imagine the kind of family that used a center doorknob. Were the rest of their lives as unconventional? What kind of secret did they harbor behind that odd front door? Was this handle the answer to the bitter right-handers vs. left-handers argument? No matter the imaginations, this home is a typical ranch in High Mid Century style. The differing façade steps with the large windows. In the rear of the house is a vaulted portion with clerestory windows and garden access. What’s unusual about the house is the neighborhood. All but one of the houses surrounding it were built twenty to thirty years after it. During the lifetime of the house University Avenue became a main highway with actual traffic lights past 2230 N. Once located on a quiet street, the house now sits opposite of one of the major outlets for the north Provo hills. Across the street are office buildings and strip malls.

Like many mid century homes, its location has shifted drastically in the past fifty years. It’s only a matter of time before its owners sell the valuable land for development. So, the next time you’re on your way to University Mall, or driving to Timpview High for a game, try to find this little house and its amazing center doorknob.

2005-11-05T00:19:00.000-07:00

Laurie Smith::Accessible Modern Fabrics

I was in Hancock Fabric in Orem last week and saw that Laurie Smith of Trading Spaces fame has a new line. While I've always liked Laurie's designs, and she is a well known fabric geek, I was a touch skeptical of the scope of her fabrics. It turns out that they are all divine. The colors are saturated and intense, the hand of the fabric is gorgeous. They are also on sale right now. So, for those of you looking for accessible modern fabrics that you don't have to order online, check out your local Hancocks. Here are a few swatches from the collection:

Solids and many other patterns can be found here.

2005-10-18T22:47:00.001-06:00

Leaving Oak Hills::Bookending Oak Lane

I collected a few more houses on the way out of Oak Hills. First up is this late 50s home at 1695 Oak Lane. The front of the home folds into the slope of the hill while the roofline remains unobtrusive. The four-square windows viewable in the center are a typical design feature of the period. The home also takes advantage of concealing landscaping to further integrate the home to the land.

A little east of Oak Lane and north of 1695, you can find Uncle Bud's park. This private park is surrounded by both mid-century, contemporary, and traditonal style homes. Notice this late 60s home is again built into the natural slope of the land. At times sloping lots are leveled or filled to build some pre-fab notion of what a house should look like. Mid-century design dictates that whenever possible, a home should be build to take advantage of the natural land instead of forcing an abode onto a landscape.

Another trend of Mid-Century design was the incorporation of Eastern influences, particularly Japanese ideals. Windows like shoji screens, abstract geometric shapes, all trace their roots to Oriental motifs. This photo is a close up the home's deck railings. Note the shape of the wood work and how it echos Japanese design elements.

I had to include this home which is on the southern end of Oak Lane. What had been a perfectly respectable mid-century home is currently undergoing a process that I like to call "rustification." I've coined this term to mean the current trend towards a rustic looking home, even going to the extreme of remodeling a home to fit the fad. This is not only unadvisable, as the home will look dated in about five minutes, but it's a crime against mid-century modern design.

Look at those ridiculous columns. As if anyone would believe for an instant that they were integral to the home. I'm sure that when you walk into the house you'll see the same yellow Tuscan faux finish on the walls that everyone else in an Ivory Home has, complemented by the aged bronze fixtures. Maybe they'll go super-orig and opt for rod iron. The lamps will have a tapestry look with bead fringe. Their furniture is already on order from The Timberlodge Collection. The living room will be full of super-grande-over-stuffed couches that look silly in the people-sized mid-century roooms. Don't worry, the entry, the kitchen, and the bathrooms will all have slate floors. They'll put tumbled nuetral travertine in the master bath and carpet the whole house in an oatmeal berber. How pedestrian and ludicrous.

One of the last homes on Oak Lane is this mid 60s home which appears deceptively simple. That strange tent looking thing beyond the primary roof line is actually a pitched ceiling with massive windows which open to the incredible western view to the rear of the home. I suspect that the cathedral windows are an addition, though I could be wrong. You can see straight through the house's windows to the sun setting behind the Oquirrah Mountains.The home bends along the lot like a curved wing. As strangely simple as this home seems from the street, it is a beautiful example of modern design. The roof is balanced on the small supports lending the home a modicum of grace. The siding blends with the land so that the view is unspoiled. In fact, the home's principal feature is the view surrounding. The Provo Temple's spire is in the left of the house offering dramatic views of the grounds during the day and the spectacular glow at night. This home revels in its hillside location and is perfectly suited to offer its residents sumptuous views.

2005-09-29T16:25:00.000-06:00

1755 Oak Lane::My Current Obsession

The funny thing about 1755 Oak is that I must have passed it without giving a thought hundreds of times in the past quarter century. Driving home from my grandparents home on Briar back to Edgemont every Sunday, we went right by and my interest wasn't even piqued. A few years ago, as I took a meandering drive, I noticed 1755 Oak and was devastatingly smitten. It's obvious that this high Mid-Century home was built balancing each principle of modern design. The house builds upon itself as it climbs the hill. The angled roofs, the clerestory windows, the private front balanced by an expansive rear view. There's no question that the home was built to take advantage of the striking western valley view. From the last photo you can see a hint of the panorama.

You can see the balconey porches that hide the carport and the way to the walk out basement. Even the mix of materials like brick, glass, and wood, showcase a home in harmony with it's surroundings. There are only two bad thigns about 1755 Oak. The first is the most obvious. In a neighborhood with tended gardens and manicured lawns, 1755 stands as a home that is not loved. The plants and trees are overgrown with a tangled mess of thickets and weeds.Junk surrounds the carport and some of the siding badly needs a sand and paint.

The second problem with the home is that I do not live there. I live with a little panic in my soul that 1755 Oak will be sold within a few years to a couple who do not understand modern design and will turn the house into a mock-California stucco monster.

In the meantime, I can drive past 1755 Oak and think of all the marvelous things I would do to wrest this home from the gaping jaws of a rustic remodel. The thicket would have to go. A tree trimming and flower bed renewal. New windows and paint for the siding. If the outside of a home is this glaringly ignored, I can only imagine what the interior has descended into--80s country mauve floral wallpaper? A thorough cleaning and carpet removal. New wooden floors, or maybe a tile option. Mosaic in the kitchen to compliment the new stainless appliances. Period fixtures and updated bathrooms (taking care to keep all the vintage tile.) New books in the library and a clean chimeny. Oh, 1755 Oak would be loved again.

2005-09-27T21:12:00.000-06:00

Architecture Brief::Tree Streets

The principle of mid-century homes was to break down the formal barriers of previous generations. Growing out of Frank Lloyd Wright’s dictum form follows function, these homes eschewed elaborate interiors in favor of clean lines and simplicity. Reflecting early twentieth century architectural principles, homes would work with the landscape to fit the land instead of the house dictating to the lot. In that spirit, homes that appeared to be closed off from the street would be open to backyards or common spaces. Walk-out basements and windows away from the street furthered the ideal. So that the whole family could comfortably spend time together, open floor plans were the norm.1

One of the most well preserved mid-century neighborhoods in Provo is the Tree Streets, also known as Oak Hills, directly East of Brigham Young University. The older homes were built in the 1940s and a few newer homes in the 90s. By far the most homes were built in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. As Oak Hills housed many university educators and local professionals, the neighborhoods are still family oriented and well cared for. It can be difficult to buy a home in the Tree Streets because they are often passed down through families, never reaching the wider market. What a treat to see so many mid-century homes that are still lived in and loved. I’ve collected photos of some of my favorites.

On Fir Circle lives this great example of mid-century architecture. I’ve included both the rear view and the front elevation. Note the varying angles of the roof. Split levels came into vogue during the 50s and this home shows one of the first types of incarnations.

Of course, when this home on Fir Avenue went on the market about six months ago we were in no position to buy. I hope the new family loves the style of the home. Note the grand entry. In keeping with the corner lot, the house wraps around the land to take advantage of the space.

At the end of Fir and on Locust Lane is this fantastic example. Another corner lot with a house wrapping around, the varying angles of the roof are complimented by supports on angles.

See how the roof cantilevers out to offer the windows some shade? Although air-conditioning was an option, many homes were built without central air allowing the architect to design the home to remain cool through structural elements instead of spending electricity. The natural elements used in the home's construction allow it to sit gracefully on the lot without seeing obtrusive.

This home on Elm takes advantage of the sloping lot and the western sunlight. Even though the home is large it sits simply on the land. Note the corner windows that allows the Western sun to light the interior. Because the home faces the street small almost clerestory windows are part of the front bedrooms.

I like the way the flat roof cantilevers slighty from the house. The clestory windows are even more apparent in this view. The home mostly likely has a walk-out basement and quite an open plan out to the back.

This smaller house is across Elm from the above home. The angled roof reflects the slope of the lot. Out the back of the house is both a walk-out basement and an elevated porch that runs the length of the home's rear. The kitchen and living/family room open up to the porch, which while shaded from the sun, offers beautiful views West over the shady streets to the university.

Speaking of homes that take advantage of their lots and harmonizing with the land this home is near the end of Oak Lane. From the street you can barely even seen a house. The home is built to blend with its hill side lot.

While privacy from the road is certain an issue, the respect for the land is even more paramount. Further along the lane you can look down the driveway to this late 60s home. The plain front disguses a plethora of windows in the living spaces that look over the whole valley including the lake.

Ok kids, that's all for tonight. I hope you enjoyed your journey in the Tree Streets. I've got one swanky dig that I'm saving for its own post tomorrow.

1. B&W photos are from Eichler:Modernism Rebuilds the American Dream

2005-09-27T16:59:00.000-06:00

Fall::Creeping In

For those of you who now live away, or for those of you who've never been, I'm posting some pictures I took last week of Provo. I was out hunting for great mid-century houses and paused to take some pictures of the scenery.

The classic sign of Fall is when the colors on the mountains start to change. For leaves to change color they have to get cold enough. Although it may be hot down in the valley, when you spy color on the mountains, you know that Fall is creeping in to drive out the relentless Summer.

Y Mountain from in front of my house:

Saratoga Springs after the rain storm:

The south side of Rock Canyon:

From Quail Valley out to Mt. Nebo:

Quail Valley down to the lake:

I love Fall. The colors have just started to change in the valley this week. Time to break out your snuggly sweaters, leather boots, and gorgeous coats. Take an inventory of your hot cocoa stash and get ready for the game on Saturday. Plan your Halloween costume, start sewing for your favorite goblins, make some caramel apples and pull out the blankets. Open your windows and turn off the AC, you only have a few precious weeks to enjoy the fresh air before central heating. Today it rained, as it will for the next month until the snow makes its first appearance right before All Saints.

2005-09-24T00:06:00.000-06:00

First::Saving Mid-Century Modern

Mid-Century Modern is known by many names: The retro look, atomic age, googie, Eames era, Knoll look, and George Nelson style. Roughly encompassing the 1930s to the 1970s, there is no question that the heights of Mid-Century modern were the 1950s and 1960s. What began as Art Deco Moderne in the inter-war years, morphed into something quintessentially optimistic and democratic after WWII. Clean lines, born in the scarcities of war-time rationing, came to mean progress and modernity to the United States. Americans, tired of the bleak war years, embraced a style of life that promised the future, today. Young families, eager to leave formality behind, bought homes, cars, furnishings and a new lifestyle.

It really was a lifestyle revolution. The idea that if you lived a modern lifestyle you were modern and progressive meant that we mass consumed our way past The Joneses. Families demanded houses with open spaces to live together, instead of closed formal parlors. Affordable furniture, designed for comfort and panache, were accessible to most. The most amazing part of this revolution was that it spread to all areas of consumption. From beautiful and clean lined architecture to furniture, cars, accessories, home appliances, every area of the culture was transformed.

Unfortunately, the beautiful homes that fifty years ago came to symbolize the modern life, are losing out to the fads of the day. Who knows how many homes have been lost to an aggressive rustic makeover or a well-intentioned but hideous cottage update?

My aim is to publicize outstanding examples of Mid-Century Modern in Utah. Maybe if I can show you the hidden jewels that surround, you’ll take up the fight to preserve the optimism of the Mid-Century Modern style.