What Is Midcentury Modern Architecture?

Have you ever wondered why Midcentury Modern Architecture continues to inspire homes and interior design today? Rooted in clean lines, minimalism, and a deep connection with nature, this architectural style originated in the post-World War II era but remains just as relevant in modern times. Whether you’re looking to remodel your home or simply appreciate iconic designs, understanding midcentury modern architecture is key to capturing its timeless appeal.

Let’s explore the fascinating history, distinct styles, and lasting impact of midcentury modern architecture.

What is Midcentury Modern Architecture?

Midcentury modern architecture is characterized by simplicity, functionality, and harmony with nature. It first gained popularity between 1945 and 1969, reflecting a post-war shift towards more open, efficient living spaces.

Key features include wide, low structures, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an emphasis on bringing the outdoors inside. The design promotes an uncluttered, airy atmosphere that allows natural light to flow freely throughout the home. This balance of indoor and outdoor spaces has contributed to its ongoing popularity among homeowners today.

The revival of midcentury modern architecture has made it a sought-after style, influencing interior design trends such as Scandinavian and Danish Modern. Its clean lines and minimalist aesthetic appeal to those seeking a functional yet visually pleasing living space.

History of Midcentury Modern Architecture

The origins of midcentury modern architecture can be traced back to European architects fleeing war-torn Germany. Many of these designers, influenced by the Bauhaus movement, brought their ideas to the United States, where they combined them with American high-prairie style homes.

Famous architects like Walter Gropius, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Marcel Breuer played significant roles in shaping this movement. These pioneers were trained by none other than Frank Lloyd Wright, often considered the father of modern architecture. Their designs emphasized clean lines, open spaces, and the use of natural materials.

After World War II, Americans were focused on lifestyle improvements, family time, and spending time in nature. As suburbs expanded, midcentury modern homes became the perfect reflection of these values. Homes featured expansive windows, open living areas, and technological advancements that allowed homeowners to spend less time on chores and more time with loved ones.

Three Distinct Styles of Midcentury Modern Architecture

Midcentury modern architecture, though unified by its emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and a connection to nature, is not a one-size-fits-all movement. Instead, it evolved into several distinct styles that reflect different architectural philosophies and aesthetic preferences. Three of the most prominent styles that emerged during this period are the International Style, Contemporary Style, and Organic Style. Each brings its own unique interpretation to the midcentury modern aesthetic, contributing to the movement’s diverse appeal.

International Style

The International Style is perhaps the most minimalist and functional of the three, drawing heavily from the Bauhaus movement and European modernism. It is characterized by its stark simplicity and lack of ornamentation, focusing on the essentials of form and function.

Bauhaus Influence: This style emerged from the Bauhaus school of design in Germany, which emphasized functionalism, mass production, and the integration of art, architecture, and design. When European architects like Walter Gropius and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe fled to the United States before and during World War II, they brought with them the Bauhaus principles that would shape the International Style.
Sleek and Minimal Designs: Homes designed in the International Style feature minimal decoration, clean lines, and open floor plans. They often use flat roofs and simple, geometric shapes to create a streamlined look. Ornamentation is almost entirely absent, as the focus is on form and functionality rather than decorative elements.
Material Use: Common materials include glass, steel, and concrete, which give the buildings a sleek and industrial appearance. Walls are often finished with stucco, further emphasizing the clean and smooth exterior surfaces.
Function Over Form: The International Style prioritizes the functional aspects of architecture over its aesthetic appeal. The design of the home is dictated by its intended use, with no unnecessary decorative flourishes to distract from its purpose. Large windows and open spaces create a sense of airiness and light, but the overall effect is one of restrained simplicity.

This style was particularly popular in urban areas where functionality and space efficiency were key considerations. The lack of ornamentation in the International Style makes it one of the purest expressions of modernism, focusing on the essential elements of architecture without extraneous details.

Contemporary Style

The Contemporary Style of midcentury modern architecture is perhaps the most widely recognized and celebrated form of the movement. This style took the core principles of modernism—clean lines, open spaces, and natural materials—and made them accessible to a broader audience. It incorporates more warmth and organic elements compared to the starkness of the International Style.

Clean Lines and Open Spaces: Homes in the Contemporary Style are defined by their clean, geometric lines and spacious interiors. Floor plans are often open, with few walls separating the main living areas. This design promotes a sense of flow and connectivity between different parts of the home, making it ideal for both family life and entertaining.
Floor-to-Ceiling Windows: A hallmark of the Contemporary Style is the extensive use of glass, particularly in the form of floor-to-ceiling windows. These windows allow natural light to flood the interior spaces and create a strong connection between the indoors and outdoors. Sliding glass doors and expansive windows also provide easy access to outdoor living areas, such as patios or decks.
Natural Materials: Unlike the more industrial materials used in the International Style, Contemporary Style homes often incorporate natural materials such as wood, stone, and brick. These materials add warmth and texture to the otherwise minimalist design, helping to create a more inviting atmosphere.
Asymmetrical Exteriors and Exposed Beams: Contemporary Style homes often feature asymmetrical exteriors, with rooflines and facades that break away from traditional symmetry. Inside, exposed beams and ceilings are common design elements that emphasize the structural integrity of the building while adding visual interest.

The Contemporary Style became incredibly popular in suburban developments during the mid-20th century. Its combination of clean, modern lines with natural materials and open spaces made it a favorite among homeowners seeking both beauty and functionality in their living environments.

Organic Style

The Organic Style of midcentury modern architecture takes a completely different approach from the more rigid and minimalist International and Contemporary styles. Organic Style homes are designed to blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings, often using irregular shapes and materials that reflect the environment around them.

Integration with Nature: Architects of the Organic Style sought to create homes that felt like an extension of the landscape rather than imposing structures. This meant designing buildings that followed the contours of the land and using natural materials like stone, wood, and glass to harmonize with the environment. Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the pioneers of this style, famously designed his Fallingwater house to appear as though it was part of the waterfall over which it was built.
Fluid, Natural Forms: Unlike the sharp lines and geometric shapes of International and Contemporary styles, Organic Style homes often have more fluid, curvilinear forms. These homes may feature rounded walls, sloped roofs, and layouts that mimic the natural terrain. The idea was to create a building that felt as though it had grown out of the earth itself, rather than one that had been imposed on it.
Adaptability to Environment: One of the defining characteristics of the Organic Style is its adaptability to different environments. An organic midcentury modern home built in the forest would look entirely different from one built in the desert. For example, a forest home might use heavy wood and stone to blend into the trees, while a desert home might feature smooth, adobe-like surfaces that echo the surrounding sand dunes.
Sustainability and Harmony: Architects of the Organic Style were often concerned with sustainability and environmental harmony long before these became mainstream concerns. They sought to use local materials and design homes that worked with, rather than against, the natural elements. This included designing homes to take advantage of passive heating and cooling from the sun and wind, as well as using materials that were sourced locally.

The Organic Style appeals to those who prioritize sustainability and a deep connection with nature. It represents the most flexible and adaptable of the three midcentury modern styles, as the designs can vary greatly depending on the specific environment and landscape.

Key Characteristics of Midcentury Modern House Plans

Midcentury modern homes share several defining characteristics, regardless of their stylistic variations. These elements are key to understanding the design’s appeal and longevity.

Clean Lines and Geometric Shapes

One of the hallmarks of midcentury modern architecture is the use of clean lines and geometric shapes. Most homes feature flat roofs, straight lines, and right angles, though some include asymmetrical exteriors or gabled roofs.

The simplicity of these designs contributes to the overall minimalist aesthetic, creating a sense of order and calm within the living space.

Floor-to-Ceiling Windows

In keeping with the idea of bringing the outdoors in, midcentury modern homes often feature large, floor-to-ceiling windows. These windows maximize natural light and offer sweeping views of the surrounding environment.

Many homes also incorporate sliding glass doors and multiple access points to outdoor spaces, further enhancing the connection between interior and exterior areas.

Changes in Elevation

Split-level homes are a common feature of midcentury modern design. Short staircases, partial walls, and fireplaces often separate different areas of the home, creating depth and visual interest.

Cabinetry and brick walls also add variation in elevation, contributing to the overall architectural style’s unique character.

Minimal Decoration

While some styles within midcentury modern architecture are more ornate than others, simplicity is key across the board. Homes are typically furnished with clean-lined pieces and feature a muted color palette that complements their exterior design.

Common midcentury modern colors include warm earth tones such as mustard, brown, and orange, though not every home uses the full range of these hues.

Different Midcentury Architectural Designs Found in the U.S. (Region by Region)

Midcentury modern architecture became a defining style across the United States from the 1940s through the 1960s. While the general principles of midcentury modern design—such as clean lines, open spaces, and a strong connection to nature—remain consistent, the specific architectural designs vary from region to region. This diversity in design is a result of geographic differences, local climate conditions, and regional building materials.

Each region of the U.S. developed its own interpretation of midcentury modern architecture, leading to unique variations that are still celebrated today.

West Coast: California Modern and Desert Midcentury Designs

The West Coast, particularly California, became one of the epicenters for midcentury modern architecture. The state’s temperate climate and sprawling landscapes allowed architects to experiment with designs that embraced indoor-outdoor living.

California Modern (Southern California): Southern California, particularly Los Angeles and Palm Springs, is home to some of the most famous examples of midcentury modern architecture. Here, architects like Richard Neutra and John Lautner created homes that integrated seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Hallmarks of California modern design include expansive glass walls, flat roofs, and an emphasis on blending indoor and outdoor spaces. The Case Study Houses in Los Angeles are prime examples of this style, showcasing innovative residential designs that were affordable yet highly functional.
Desert Midcentury (Palm Springs): Palm Springs is world-renowned for its unique take on midcentury modern architecture. The hot, arid climate influenced the design of homes that maximized airflow and provided ample shade. Architects like Albert Frey and Donald Wexler were pioneers in creating homes with low, horizontal profiles, large windows, and bold rooflines that responded to the desert environment. The use of steel and glass became common, helping to integrate the homes into the rugged desert landscape.

Key features of West Coast midcentury modern homes include:

Flat or butterfly roofs to allow for more sunlight and panoramic views.
Extensive use of glass to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Natural materials such as stone and wood that reflect the surrounding environment.

Pacific Northwest: Nature-Inspired Organic Designs

The midcentury modern homes of the Pacific Northwest differ slightly from their Californian counterparts, emphasizing a closer connection with the natural environment. The region’s lush forests and frequent rainfall inspired architects to design homes that blended with the natural surroundings rather than stood out against them.

Organic Architecture: Architects in the Pacific Northwest, such as Pietro Belluschi and Paul Kirk, created homes that used natural materials like wood and stone to complement the surrounding forested landscapes. These homes often featured large overhangs to protect against the rain and were designed with deep eaves, exposed beams, and gabled roofs.
Connection with Nature: Homes in this region were often built with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Decks and patios were frequently incorporated to further connect the indoor space with the surrounding environment. The use of natural light was prioritized, with skylights and large windows strategically placed to brighten the interiors, despite the region’s cloudy weather.

Key characteristics of Pacific Northwest midcentury modern designs include:

Natural materials like stone and wood to harmonize with the environment.
Gabled roofs with deep overhangs to protect against rain.
Large windows and skylights to maximize natural light.

Southwest: Desert-Adapted Designs

The Southwest, particularly in states like Arizona and New Mexico, developed its own distinct take on midcentury modern architecture. The region’s intense heat and dry climate influenced architects to create homes that were functional yet reflective of the desert environment.

Low-Slung Homes: Homes in the Southwest were often low-slung with flat roofs or gentle slopes. The emphasis was on horizontal lines that mimicked the flat desert landscape.
Material Adaptations: Architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Blaine Drake designed homes with thick adobe or stucco walls that helped insulate the interior spaces from the harsh desert heat. Natural materials like stone and wood were commonly used, while large windows framed views of the arid landscape without allowing too much heat into the home.
Shaded Outdoor Spaces: Courtyards and shaded patios were key features in Southwest midcentury modern homes, providing homeowners with outdoor living spaces that were protected from the intense sun. Many homes were also designed with breezeways to encourage air circulation.

Distinct features of midcentury modern homes in the Southwest include:

Thick adobe or stucco walls to provide insulation.
Flat or gently sloping roofs that harmonize with the desert landscape.
Shaded patios and courtyards for outdoor living in the hot climate.

Midwest: Prairie-Influenced Modernism

In the Midwest, midcentury modern architecture was heavily influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie School designs. The region’s flat, open landscapes inspired homes that emphasized horizontal lines and organic materials, similar to those found in Wright’s earlier works.

Prairie Influence: Midwest midcentury modern homes often incorporated the low-pitched roofs, wide overhangs, and open floor plans that characterized Prairie School architecture. Architects like Eliel Saarinen and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe brought modernist elements to these homes, integrating large windows and clean, minimalist designs.
Functional and Minimalist: The harsh winters of the Midwest required homes to be well-insulated and functional. Large brick or stone fireplaces often became the focal point of open living spaces, providing both warmth and aesthetic appeal. Homes in the Midwest were also designed with flat or gently sloping roofs, and many featured attached garages—a new innovation in residential architecture at the time.

Key features of Midwest midcentury modern homes include:

Low-pitched roofs and wide overhangs, reminiscent of Prairie School designs.
Large fireplaces that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.
Clean lines and minimalist decor influenced by modernist design.

East Coast: Urban Modernism and International Style

On the East Coast, particularly in cities like New York and Boston, midcentury modern architecture took on a more urban and international character. The high population density of these areas and limited space available for sprawling homes influenced the development of compact, vertical designs.

Urban Modernism: East Coast cities embraced modernist high-rise apartment buildings, office complexes, and smaller, more compact homes. Philip Johnson and Marcel Breuer were key figures in the development of midcentury modern designs that adapted to the urban environment. Glass facades, flat roofs, and minimalist decor became common features in both residential and commercial buildings.
International Style Influence: The East Coast also saw the rise of the International Style, a subset of modern architecture that emphasized sleek, boxy designs with little to no ornamentation. Skyscrapers like the Seagram Building in New York exemplify this style. In residential architecture, homes were often box-shaped, featuring steel or concrete construction with large, uninterrupted windows.

Distinct features of East Coast midcentury modern homes include:

Compact, vertical designs to maximize limited space in urban areas.
Boxy, geometric forms influenced by the International Style.
Glass facades and steel frames for sleek, minimalist aesthetics.

Famous Midcentury Modern Furniture & Interior Design

Midcentury modern furniture is renowned for its clean lines, functional design, and minimal ornamentation, mirroring the architectural principles of midcentury modern homes. The interior design of this era blends form and function seamlessly, offering pieces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical. Many iconic pieces from this period remain popular today, recognized for their timeless elegance and adaptability to modern spaces.

Midcentury modern furniture stands out because of its ability to balance simplicity with innovation. The use of new materials and production techniques, such as molded plywood and fiberglass, revolutionized the design landscape. These pieces are often defined by their clean shapes, absence of excessive decoration, and an emphasis on comfort and usability.

Characteristics of Midcentury Modern Furniture

Simple Forms: Midcentury modern furniture avoids ornate embellishments, instead opting for streamlined designs that emphasize clean, geometric shapes.
Functionality: Each piece is designed with a purpose in mind, blending usability with modernist aesthetics.
Use of Innovative Materials: Designers of this era experimented with new materials like fiberglass, molded plywood, and metal, producing lightweight, durable furniture.
Minimalist Aesthetic: Furniture from this period prioritizes minimalism, featuring smooth surfaces, tapered legs, and open, airy forms.

These defining characteristics have contributed to the enduring appeal of midcentury modern furniture, making it a staple in homes and offices around the world.

Eero Saarinen Tulip Table

The Eero Saarinen Tulip Table is one of the most recognizable pieces of midcentury modern furniture. Designed in 1956, the Tulip Table was Saarinen’s solution to the clutter caused by traditional table legs. His goal was to design a table with a single pedestal base, which he achieved with the sleek, minimal design of the Tulip Table.

Design Features: The table features a smooth, round tabletop supported by a single, central pedestal. This design eliminates the need for multiple legs, giving the table a futuristic and streamlined appearance.
Materials: Typically made from molded fiberglass or marble, the Tulip Table has a glossy, modern finish that complements various interior styles.
Functionality: Its minimalist base allows for more legroom, making it a functional dining or coffee table that can fit seamlessly into modern homes.

The Tulip Table’s sleek design and practical features make it a quintessential example of midcentury modern innovation. It remains a popular choice for contemporary dining rooms, kitchens, and living spaces, maintaining its place as a symbol of functional elegance.

Eames Fiberglass Side Chair

Designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1950, the Eames Fiberglass Side Chair is another iconic piece of midcentury modern furniture. This chair revolutionized the industry by using innovative materials like fiberglass-reinforced plastic, making it affordable, lightweight, and easy to produce.

Design Features: The chair’s most distinctive element is its molded fiberglass seat, which offers a contoured form designed to support the human body. It rests on simple, angled metal legs, with no excessive ornamentation.
Materials: The original fiberglass design was groundbreaking, offering a flexible yet durable material that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Today, these chairs are available in various finishes, including fiberglass, plastic, and upholstered versions.
Functionality: The Eames Chair is lightweight, stackable, and versatile, making it ideal for use in dining rooms, offices, or even outdoor spaces. Its simple, ergonomic design allows it to adapt to a wide range of settings.

The Eames Fiberglass Side Chair remains a popular choice for its comfort, affordability, and timeless design. Whether used in modern offices or home interiors, it continues to be a symbol of midcentury modern innovation and design simplicity.

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Chair

The Barcelona Chair, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in 1929, is a classic example of midcentury modern luxury and minimalist design. Originally created for the German Pavilion at the International Exposition in Barcelona, this chair exemplifies the “less is more” philosophy of midcentury modern design.

Design Features: The Barcelona Chair has a simple, elegant design featuring two leather-upholstered cushions supported by a chrome-plated steel frame. Its crossed legs and sleek, curving lines give it a sculptural quality, while its tufted leather cushions add a touch of luxury.
Materials: The original chair was crafted from high-quality leather and polished stainless steel. Modern versions often use fine leather and chrome, maintaining the luxurious and modern feel of the original design.
Functionality: Though designed as a statement piece, the Barcelona Chair is also highly functional. Its ergonomic design provides comfort, making it suitable for living rooms, offices, or other spaces where both comfort and aesthetics are important.

The Barcelona Chair is one of the most iconic pieces in midcentury modern furniture, representing a perfect blend of form and function. It is often found in luxury interiors and is a testament to the enduring legacy of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s design principles.

Influence on Modern Interiors

Midcentury modern furniture continues to shape interior design in contemporary spaces. Many homeowners and designers incorporate these iconic pieces into modern interiors for their versatility, simplicity, and timeless appeal.

Adaptability: Midcentury modern furniture easily adapts to a wide variety of design styles, from minimalist spaces to more eclectic environments.
Clean Aesthetic: The clean lines and minimal design of these pieces make them ideal for contemporary interiors, where simplicity and functionality are key.
Enduring Popularity: These furniture pieces have retained their appeal for decades, and their influence can still be seen in modern furniture design.

The continued popularity of midcentury modern furniture, such as the Tulip Table, Eames Chair, and Barcelona Chair, reflects its lasting impact on the world of interior design. These pieces not only offer a connection to the past but also remain relevant in today’s modern homes and offices.

Differences Between Midcentury and Midcentury Modern

Although the terms midcentury and midcentury modern are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct design philosophies and aesthetics that emerged during the same period. Understanding the differences between these two terms can provide greater clarity, especially for homeowners and designers seeking to capture a specific style in their projects.

Midcentury Decor: Ornate and Eclectic Influences

The term “midcentury” typically refers to a broader spectrum of design styles that flourished during the mid-20th century, particularly between the 1940s and 1960s. This era saw the rise of more ornate and eclectic styles, including Art Deco and Art Nouveau, which emphasized bold, decorative elements.

Art Deco Influence: Midcentury decor can include elaborate designs influenced by the Art Deco movement, known for its glamorous and luxurious elements. These homes often featured intricate patterns, metallic finishes, and bold geometric shapes.
Art Nouveau Touches: Art Nouveau, another influential style of the period, added organic, flowing shapes inspired by nature. In midcentury decor, you might find curved lines, floral motifs, and stained glass windows.
Materials and Textures: Midcentury homes incorporated a wide range of materials, from luxurious wood veneers and metallic accents to more decorative textiles like velvet and brocade. This gave these homes a more eclectic and ornate appearance compared to the minimalist approach of midcentury modern homes.

Midcentury Modern: Clean, Minimal, and Functional

In contrast, midcentury modern architecture takes a more utilitarian and minimalist approach to design. It prioritizes function over form, focusing on simplicity, clean lines, and an uncluttered aesthetic. This style emerged as a response to the growing desire for more efficient living spaces that aligned with post-war ideals of simplicity and innovation.

Focus on Functionality: Midcentury modern homes were designed with practicality in mind, using open floor plans and large windows to enhance both comfort and functionality. Rather than focusing on ornate decor, these homes emphasized efficient living spaces that brought in natural light and fostered a connection with the outdoors.
Minimalist Design Elements: Unlike the more elaborate designs found in general midcentury homes, midcentury modern homes were defined by their minimal decor. Clean lines, straight angles, and geometric shapes were common, with little room for excess decoration.
Materials and Colors: Midcentury modern homes used natural materials like wood, stone, and glass to maintain a harmonious balance with their surroundings. The color palette was generally more subdued, featuring warm earth tones such as mustard, brown, and orange, in contrast to the bolder hues and rich textures often found in midcentury decor.

Architectural Differences

Midcentury homes and midcentury modern homes also differ in their architectural details. These differences are evident in the shapes, forms, and layouts of the homes built during this period.

Ornate vs. Simple Structures: Midcentury homes often embraced more traditional architectural features, such as detailed moldings, decorative facades, and more formal layouts. In contrast, midcentury modern homes focused on simplicity, with flat roofs, open floor plans, and large windows that blurred the line between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Asymmetry in Modern Designs: Midcentury modern homes frequently showcased asymmetrical structures, with unbalanced rooflines and non-traditional layouts. This departure from symmetry was a hallmark of midcentury modern architecture, offering a fresh take on home design that prioritized function over rigid formality.
Natural Integration: Midcentury modern homes often placed a strong emphasis on integrating with the natural landscape. Floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors were common, ensuring that the outdoors became an extension of the indoor living space. Traditional midcentury homes, on the other hand, were less focused on this natural connection, with more emphasis on internal design aesthetics.

Decor and Interior Design Differences

The interior design of midcentury and midcentury modern homes varies significantly in terms of style, materials, and overall atmosphere. These distinctions influence how these homes look and feel from the inside.

Midcentury Decor: Interiors in midcentury homes often featured decorative elements like ornate furniture, patterned wallpaper, and rich fabrics. The focus was on creating a luxurious and visually dynamic space that reflected the eclectic trends of the era.
Midcentury Modern Decor: In contrast, midcentury modern interiors were much more restrained. Furniture featured clean lines, functional designs, and minimal embellishment. Popular midcentury modern pieces, like the Eames Chair or the Tulip Table, prioritized usability and aesthetics equally.
Color Schemes: While both styles might use similar colors, midcentury homes often featured bolder, richer tones, while midcentury modern homes preferred muted, earthy shades. The simplicity of the modern approach extended to color choices, with whites, browns, and greens taking center stage.

Conclusion

Midcentury modern architecture continues to captivate homeowners and designers alike with its clean lines, connection to nature, and timeless appeal. Whether you’re renovating a home or simply appreciating the design, this style remains a key influence in modern living spaces.

FAQs About Midcentury Modern Architecture

1. What year is a midcentury modern home?

Midcentury modern homes were typically built between 1945 and 1969, though the style has seen a revival in recent years.

2. What is the difference between midcentury and midcentury modern homes?

Midcentury homes may feature more ornate or traditional designs, while midcentury modern homes focus on simplicity, clean lines, and functionality.

3. What does midcentury modern mean in interior design?

Midcentury modern interior design refers to the furniture and decor associated with the style, often featuring iconic pieces like the Eames Chair or Saarinen Tulip Table.

4. How do I know if my home is midcentury modern?

Homes built between 1945 and 1970 with open floor plans, clean lines, and large windows are typically midcentury modern.