With an emphasis on clean lines and wide-open spaces, the mid-century modern house effortlessly applies to modern Australian living. Not only does this timeless style perfectly suit today’s modern standards for architectural design but it also invites a welcomed warmth and nostalgia that adds interest to any home. With the incorporation of open-floor plans, mid-century house plans not only look good, but suit the Australian lifestyle which emphasises openness, connectivity and flexibility.
Emerging after World War II, from the 50’s all the way through to the 70’s, mid-century design and architecture was praised for it’s unique sense of spaciousness and streamlined living. These more modern designs allowed for plenty of room for a homeowner’s personality to shine through, balancing unique style choices with function and purpose.
Exploring The Mid-Century Modern House with Designer Stef Yujnovich
“It champions floor plans creating a sense of openness, clean lines and blending the outside with the inside.” Plunkett Homes Administration Manager and Interior Designer Stef Yujnovich said.
“This styling is inspired by nature, incorporating woods and natural elements within the design.”
With an emphasis on indoor-outdoor floor and natural elements, it’s no surprise that the mid-century modern home experienced a resurgence in Australia, where outdoor living has long been a priority for Australian housing design trends. With our large patios and decorative natural motifs, the mid-century modern home offers a fresh take on how Australians can bring the outdoors, indoors, and get more from their land space.
Bringing the outdoors in is very important, and due to the way Western Australian households’ line, it makes the mid-century style very popular. “
Popular of the mid-century modern house, incorporating natural colours and materials can make a great impact on the natural feel of a home. The above bathroom incorporates wooden cabinetry with uneven wood grains to mimic the outdoors, while dark green tiling resembles the colour pallette of a wood or rainforrest. These elements combined give the bathroom a refreshing atmosphere which nod to outdoor living.
“Many mid-century abodes integrate the exterior living spaces with the interior elements of the build.
Our climate allows for outdoor living for many months of the year, therefore including outdoor kitchens and living spaces is a must too. Design hallmarks of the mid-century design are clean lines, flat or gently sloping rooflines and geometric shapes.” Ms Yujnovich said.
These hallmarks are one part of what has helped the mid-century modern home hold onto it’s timelessness. With clean lines and geometric shapes still being prioritised in the most modern cutting-edge homes, the mid-century modern home design displays architectural design elements that are a timeless hallmark of modern living.
“Bold colours are often utilised to highlight the main character of the design.
Interior styling is all about contradicting materials and textures, open floor plans and minimalistic, yet highly functional, spaces. It is without clutter and incorporates statement pieces, rather than superfluous ornamentation or objects.”
Ms Yujnovich said the mid-century style had a sense of longevity thanks to it’s timeless appeal and minimalistic aesthetic.
“It is relaxed and uncluttered, which resonates with the laid-back vibe of WA.” she said
“The key to combining the modern elements of a new home build with the features mid-century design is known for is introducing its core fundamentals softly and intermittently throughout the home.”
“Depending on the brief, homebuilders can balance their dwelling more towards the mid-century style or more towards modern just by the number of key elements used in each genre.”
Ms Yujnovich said the mid-century style was often married with a contemporary flair to ensure an enduring aesthetic and feel for decades to come.
“Designers will work with or have a brief for a mid-century modern design, which typically has cleaner lines, a cool vibe, and is considered a little more timeless and fresher, as opposed to mid-century styling on its own.” she said.
“Both styles are warm, inviting and resonate well with our beautiful state and nature.”
Source – Ysabella Salisbury, The West Australian
