Mid Life: the best mid-century modern homes for sale | Journal | The Modern House (2024)

There’s a connection to nature – and then there’s living within it. The rolling hills and evergreen woodland surrounding this home at the foot of Eildon Hills in the Scottish Borders make it hard to believe that Edinburgh is only 40 miles away. Idyllic views of greenery pour through the windows and chime harmoniously with the timber interior.

It’s no wonder the single-storey house calls to mind Frank Llyod Wright’s Usonian houses: as well as the rural location, the home has the simple grid pattern layout and flat roof for which the American architect is renowned. The architect of this home, however, is thought to be Joseph Blackburn: a colleague of the celebrated modernist architect behind Klein House, Peter Womersley.

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What do Marlon Brando, Rod Steiger and Julie Christie have in common? They were all one-time residents of Manygate Lane, the iconic estate and conservation area that houses this bold and brilliant mid-century home. Consider this a cousin of the Span house: it was, after all, designed by Swiss architect Edward Schoolheifer for the Lyon Group, who birthed said housing style.

This three-bedroom home is a masterclass in simplicity. The sleek façade and mid-century interiors are utterly immaculate, while floor-to-ceiling glazing welcomes plenty of light into the space. Mid-century fanatics will revel in the original features such as the Jarrah wood flooring and pine-clad ceilings. Don’t mind if we do.

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This striking home exudes the post-war optimism that fuelled the mid-century modern movement. Joyful quirks include accents of yellow peppered throughout the space: on numerous doors, on the kitchen tiles, on the striped awnings. Meanwhile, the modernist façade is likely to leave anyone passing by in awe of its remarkable design.

The design comes courtesy of Roy Hickman, who was considered to be one of the most imaginative British architects building private houses at the time. He also built the three neighbouring houses (although only two remain). His trademarks included large expansive glass and central heating to allow for open-plan living. With the emphasis firmly placed on light and space, these houses were considered seminal works for their sublime innovation. Now, name a better backdrop for mid-century classics such as the Eames Lounge Chair.

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Not all mid-century homes are grand in size: this bright two-bedroom terrace house, for instance, is modish yet modest. It’s located on the award-winning Dulwich Estate in Dulwich, south-east London, and was designed by architect F.O. Hayes in the 1960s. Thankfully, the home’s exterior has been carefully cared for over the years and it remains in keeping with the estate’s mid-century charm.

Inside, the home has been brought right up to date with contemporary interiors, such as simple white walls and cork floors. Natural light streams in through the glazed doors, which open onto the beautiful back garden (bonus points: it’s south-facing).

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The influence of Frank Lloyd Wright on mid-century modern architecture is undeniable – so here’s a second home in this selection that’s a homage to the architect. This time, it’s Lloyd Wright’s Prairie-style houses that were the inspiration behind this Grade II-listed house. It was designed and built by acclaimed architect D. Rosslyn Harper, who lived here with his family.

The cantilevered flat roof, the internal exposed brickwork, open-plan living space and exquisite use of timber are a testament to the home’s mid-century heritage. The timber is a particular highlight: marvel at the wonderful golden tones it creates. Oh, and its street name, Lovelace Avenue, is just as pleasing as the home.

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