Modernism Reborn: Mid-Century American Houses

by Michael Webb

In the first book of its kind, architectural critic Michael Webb and Esto photographer Roger Strauss III examine 35 extraordinary modern houses that have been restored, enhanced, or extended by new owners who see them as timeless classics. Built in the heyday of modernism, from the 1930s through the early 1960s, these houses were designed by exceptional architects for themselves or for adventurous clients. A few were lovingly preserved as time capsules, but most endured years of neglect or abuse and might easily have been torn down.

Webb explores how these houses were created--as daring experiments or as creative responses to site and climate--and here are villas that fuse craft and invention, machines for living, and residences that embrace the landscape. Here, too, are houses inspired by the purity of classical temples, and frugal dwellings that have been sensitively enlarged. After a long eclipse, these houses and the enlightened attitudes they embody are being rediscovered by creative individuals searching for distinctive, open, light-filled places to live. Modernism is a way of living, more than a style, and this book celebrates the architects and owners who respect its character and scale.

Also included are nearly 200 photographs taken by Roger Strauss, all of which were specially commissioned for this book.

Genres: Architecture, Design, Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Michael · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this book years ago as I am a huge fan of modernism. I read it then - salivated over a number of the homes showcased. I do have my list of faves, as I am sure does everyone.

Maybe it's the mood I am in, but I plucked this off a shelf tonight and took another look. I found the stories about the homes did little to draw me in, to feel a touch included in story after story about people pondering modernism while on a Yale scholarship, sailing from Tokyo to Los Angeles blah blah blah - eat the rich. Any anecdotal qualities of this book seemed to stop at the pocketbook.

I realize this book is about the challenges of restoration and celebration of keeping these places alive; maybe it's a victim of its time. I found the exterior photography okay thanks to the natural light, but once they moved inside all bets were off. A lot of it was dark, the exposures happenstance or blown out and they could have used a stylist.

My 3 cents. Now for a stiff vodka..

[Kitty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The houses are breathtaking in this book. Very inspiring.

Great photography and informative text