Blog Archives - Mid Mod Scout

Mid-Century Modern Homes For Sale in Atlanta – Realtor Tips – Where To Find

Billy — Thu, 25 Aug 2022 17:19:32 +0000

Mid-century modern homes are often referred to as “California Ranch” style homes.

Homes for sale in Atlanta with mid-century modern style are abundant. They are sometimes called ranch homes because California ranch houses that were popular during this period.

California style ranch home – photo by Sheila Fitzgerald

There are two main styles of mid-century modern homes. One type has a flat roof with a large deck. Another type has a pitched roof with a small porch. Both types have open floor plans.

The kitchen is usually located off of the dining room. The master bedroom is usually located on the second floor. Most of the bathrooms are located upstairs.

TIP: Another thing you should know is that these homes are extremely popular with buyers. There are many people who would love to live in one of these homes. However, it may take some time before you find the right home.

8 Realtor Tips On Buying Classic Modern Homes

There are many different kinds of mid-century modern homes for sale in Atlanta.

You can choose between a ranch style home, a split level home, a two story home, a three bedroom home, a four bedroom home, a five bedroom home, a six bedroom home, a seven bedroom home, and even a nine bedroom home!

First, you should think about what kind of neighborhood you want to live in. Do you prefer a quiet neighborhood or a busy area?

Second, you should think about how much space you need. Are you planning on having children? How big of a family do you plan on having?

Third, you should think about the size of the home. Is it too small or too large? Authentic modern homes built in 1950s-60s suburbia are sometimes smaller.

Fourth, you should think about whether or not you want an attached garage.

Fifth, you should think about any special features that you might want. Like, cozy American vintage (or) sharp edgy Bauhaus look.

Sixth, you should think about where you want to live. Do you want to live near a major city or a smaller town?

Seventh, you should think about your budget. What price range are you willing to spend? MCM housing can be very affordable or extremely expensive architectural wonders.

Eighth, you should think about finding a realtor. A good realtor can help you find the perfect home for your needs.

Finally, you should know that mid-century modern homes for sale in Atlanta include areas like Buckhead, Roswell, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, and other places.

TIP: The Best Places to Find Mid Century Modern Homes for Rent in Atlanta

If you are looking for a place to live while searching for a house, then renting a mid century modern home might be an option for you. These homes are usually smaller than traditional homes, so they are perfect for those who need more space.

What is an Eichler?

They are homes built by American real estate developer Joseph Eichler. He was the king of distinctive modern style homes and tract housing mainly in Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area between 1949 – 1966. Enjoy this homage to the man.

Mid Century Modern Homes in Georgia – What Are They?

Mid Century Modern Neighborhoods in Atlanta – What Makes Them Special?

Photogs credit: Sheila Fitzgerald

Billy

About MidModScout.com

MidModScout.com is an online resource for all mid-century modern enthusiasts. We feature helpful posts on MCM Home Décor, Interior Design, Wall Art, Textiles, Furniture, Vintage Artifacts, Graphic Arts, Modernism and more.

Collectors, Homeowners, and other lovers of MCM style art and furnishings will find our comprehensive online Resource Guides to be very useful. So if you’re looking for Home Service Pros, Appraisers, Advisors & Consultants, Auctions or other local mid-century modern experts in the Atlanta Metro area, we’re a good source. see Resources

Who is the Mid Mod Scout?

Billy B. is an expert consultant in design and color in the Mid Century Modern style. He has degrees in Web Design from Emory University and in Advertising Design from Central Piedmont College. Since 2009, he has run his own successful freelance web design business in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Mid Century Modern Homes in Georgia – What Are They?

Billy — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 17:31:41 +0000

Why Buy A Mid Century Modern Home?

Aerial Photo of Atlanta / Buckhead Neighborhoods by Rod Gimenez

Modern homes from the Mid-Century Movement in Georgia began in the 1950s. Architects began to experiment with new materials and styles. This led to the development of the mid century modern movement. It was characterized by well designed lines, simple shapes, and open spaces.

If you’re looking for a home that has character, then a mid century modern home might be perfect for you. These homes were designed to be functional and comfortable, so they often feature large windows, high ceilings, and lots of natural light.

Types Of Georgia MCM Places For Sale

There are several different styles of mid century modern homes for purchase in Georgia. You can find them in both urban and suburban areas. Many people choose to live in these homes because they offer an open floor plan with plenty of space for entertaining. Others love the clean lines and simple design of these homes.

Features – Style – Architecture To Look For

Baby Blue and White photo with Butterfly Roof by Matthew Bamberg

These homes typically feature large windows, lots of natural light, and open spaces. They also tend to have high ceilings, exposed beams, and wood floors.

If you’re looking for a home with a lot of character, then you might consider purchasing one of these homes. The style was influenced by midcentury architecture and design trends. They often feature uncluttered lines, sleek curves, and lots of glass.

Where Can You Find These Homes?

Perfect Mid Mod Interior Colors shot by Courtney Pickens

There are several places where you can find these homes. First, there are some neighborhoods that specialize in selling them. Second, there are real estate agents who specialize in finding these homes.

Third, there are websites that list properties based on certain criteria. Finally, there are even companies that will build custom mid-century modern homes in Georgia just for you!

There are several neighborhoods in Atlanta where you can find mid century modern homes for sale. Here are some of the top places to search for them:

• Buckhead – This area has plenty of high end shops, restaurants, and hotels. It is also near the airport and downtown.

• East Lake – This area is known for its beautiful lakeside views. It is also close to the airport and downtown. It is also home to the Georgia Aquarium.

• Inman Park – This is a historic neighborhood with lots of charm. It is also close by the airport and downtown. Many of the homes here were designed by famous architects.

If you are interested in mid century modern homes for sale in Georgia, there are several things you should consider before making an offer. First, make sure you understand what kind of house you are looking at.

Is it a ranch style home, or a split level home? What size is it? How many bedrooms does it have? Does it have a garage? Do you need a swimming pool? Are there any special features that you would like to add?

Mid-Century Modern Neighborhoods Atlanta – What Makes Them Special?

Billy — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 17:53:56 +0000

Mid-Century Design Trends Make Desirable Homes

Atlanta mid-century modern neighborhoods were built around the 1950s and 1960s, and many people love them for their clean lines, simple designs, and timeless appeal. These homes are also known for their affordability, which has made them desirable for home-buyers all over the country.

Aerial shot of beautiful suburbs in Atlanta, Ga. by Rajesh Pandit

The 1950’s were an exciting time for home design.

Featured Eames Lounger in beautiful setting by Trend

In the 1950s, Americans were looking for ways to simplify their lives and make their homes more efficient.

This was reflected in the architecture of the period, with sleek, streamlined designs that emphasized function over form.

Many mid-century modern neighborhoods in Atlanta are still filled with these homes, and they continue to draw new buyers every year.

These include the Westside, Buckhead, Virginia Highland, East Lake Highlands, and Druid Hills areas.

There are several reasons why these neighborhoods are special.

First, they offer an abundance of green space.

Second, they are close to downtown Atlanta.

Third, they are located near some of the best schools in the city.

Also, many people love living in these neighborhoods because they feel like they live in a small town while being just minutes away from everything.

These neighborhoods have been around since the early 1900’s.

Mid-century modern neighborhoods are often located near downtown areas, where there are plenty of amenities such as restaurants, shops, parks, and other attractions.

They also tend to be close to major highways, making commuting easy.

These homes have been designed by architects who were inspired by mid-century design trends. They offer an eclectic mix of modern and traditional elements.

Many of them are close to downtown Atlanta.

These neighborhoods were designed with an eye toward efficiency and functionality. Homes were built with large windows and open floor plans, allowing natural light to flood into the rooms.

This design was meant to make living spaces feel larger than they actually are.

Mid-Century Modern Homes in Atlanta are some of the most sought after homes in the city. Find out why they’re so special!

Get inspired by some of the best examples of Atlanta mid-century modern neighborhoods!

Vintage Furniture Shops Atlanta – Shops and Where to Find Them

Mid Century Modern Homes In Georgia -What Are They?

Moving To Atlanta? Try Our Resources Page for Services Near Me

Photog credits – Trend, Rajesh Pandit

Billy

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Vintage Furniture Atlanta – Shops and Where to Find Them

Billy — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 17:14:01 +0000

You’ll be Amazed by Selection of Antique Furniture in Atlanta

Atlanta vintage furniture has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s a great way to add character to any home while still keeping costs down. If you’re looking for something unique, consider purchasing antique furniture.

Antique furniture tends to be more expensive than modern pieces, but it also comes with a lot of history. You can find some amazing deals at flea markets and yard sales.

Search by category or type

There are two ways to search for antique furniture in Atlanta, GA. First, you can browse through categories such as Art Deco, Arts & Crafts, Chippendale, Early American, French Provincial, Mission, Shaker, Victorian, etc.

Or, you can search by type, such as armoire, bedside table, chest, credenza, dining room table, dresser, end table, entertainment center, office desk, sideboard, sofa table, etc. Either way works well.

Compare prices

If you’re looking for an antique piece of furniture, you might not realize how much you can save by shopping online. Many retailers offer free shipping, so you won’t need to worry about paying extra for delivery. And, some stores will even give you a discount when you purchase multiple items.

Read Reviews

Before you make any purchases, read customer reviews to learn more about the product. This will help you decide whether or not it’s worth buying. Also, check out the return policy before making a purchase.

Browse listings from local antique shops

There are several ways to browse listings from local antique shops, such as through Google Maps, Yelp, or Facebook. However, some people prefer to shop directly with the seller. To do so, visit the website of each antique store listed in the directory. Then, click “Contact Seller” to send them a message.

5 Places To Find Vintage Furniture In Atlanta, Ga.

Ally’s Attic

Ally’s Attic has 110 independent dealers to provide you with large variety of home goods for your home in two locations conveniently located in the same shopping center ie. Antiques, Resale Furniture and Accessories. – Mary H. Business Owner

Scott Antique Markets

For over 25 years… the Scott Antique Markets have been America’s Favorite Treasure Hunt for great antiques and collectibles! At our antique shows you will find anything you can imagine, from paintings, jewelry and silver to furniture, militaria, glassware and much more! – Don Scott founder

Highland Row

Highland Row specializes in Mid-Century Modern furniture and accessories, as well as eclectic, funky items from any era. On the first Saturday of each month, we get a new truckload of great stuff, and our dealers bring in additional items for the event. – Angela C. business owner

Kudzu Antiques + Modern

Kudzu Antiques + Modern is 25,000 sq.ft. of affordable antiques, interesting new furniture and custom sofas, industrial and mid-century furniture, lighting, gifts and unique finds. Something for everyone and everywhere in your home, old and new! – Owners Kate and George Lawes

Retro Passion

RetroPassion21 specializes in authentic Mid Century furniture and accessories. We carefully hand select our items and import directly from Denmark and from England. – Susanne Bremer, owner of Retropassion21

Search for Atlanta vintage furniture stores near me

If you live in Atlanta, there are plenty of places to find antique furniture. You can search for local antique shops by using Google Maps. Or, you can use an online directory like Georgia Antique Trail to find antique furniture stores near you.

Check with your favorite furniture store. If you’re looking for more than just an antique, check with your favorite furniture store first. They might have something similar available at a lower price.

Ask around at your local flea market. You can also find some amazing deals at local flea markets. Many people sell items there because they no longer need them. You can often find furniture, clothing, and other household goods at these events.

Visit an auction house. These venues allow you to browse through lots of different items, and you can bid on what you want. This is a good option if you’re not sure exactly what you want.

Billy

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Mid-Century Modern Furnishings Are Back In Style

Billy — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:20:37 +0000

Vintage Modern Furniture What To Look For

Mid-century modern furniture has been around for decades, but it’s only recently become popular again. It was first introduced in the 1940s by designers like Charles and Ray Eames, and it became very popular during the 1950s and 1960s. Today, it’s still considered a classic style, and many people love its clean lines and simple shapes.

Vladimir Kagan Directional Cloud Serpentine Sofa 1970’s – Organic simple shapes show classic design

The Vladimir Kagan Directional Cloud Serpentine Sofa above is a great example of organic design. (forms and shapes from nature). This is the opposite of Geometric design which consist of squares, circles, rectangles, ovals, triangles, pentagons, hexagons, octagons, diamonds, and stars. See: How To Spot Mid Mod Design

You Can Buy Mid-Century Modern Furniture At Any Price Point

If you’re looking for mid-century modern furniture at any price point, there are plenty of options available. However, some pieces are more expensive than others. A few examples of high-end mid-century modern furniture include the Herman Miller Aeron chair ($1,800) and the Herman Miller Embody sofa ($2,500). These pieces are made with materials such as aluminum and stainless steel, so they tend to last longer than other styles.

The price you pay for vintage style furnishing depends on if you are a collector or a stylist seeking the Mid-Century vibe. Authentic antique pieces from the 1950s will be much more than reproduction furniture.

To illustrate I have broken this down Mid-Century Modern Furniture into 4 pricing categories. The most expensive starts with five “$” signs and the least with two “$” signs.

💲💲💲💲💲 Authentic Antique Pieces – 1st Dibs, Charish, Ebay, Auctions, Estate Sales, Retro Passion 21

💲💲💲💲 Design Firms remanufacturing their original 50s & 60s furniture – Herman Miller, Knoll, Vitra Design Museum, Fritz Hansen, Cassina and B & B Italia

💲💲💲 Authorized Online dealers – Hive, 1st Dibs, Chairish, Vitra

💲💲 Designer Retail Reproductions – Wayfair, Etsy, Joybird, West Elm, All Modern, LexMod and Amazon

Obviuosly there is a wide range of pricing and availability for this design style. Your budget and interior space will determine what favorite pieces would fit best.

**See bottom of this page for complete list of links to the above dealers – Thanks!

1950’s – 60’s MCM Furniture

Tips On What To Look For

Vladimir Kagan Lounge Chair 1970’s

It might be helpful to think of your budget as you begin looking for mid mod style. Authentic antique pieces can be very expensive so you want to shop for goods you’re really in love with.

Because, they will last a long time and can be long term investments for you and your family. See: How MCM Collectors Make The Best Finds

You could dedicate a whole website on how to buy antique modern furniture. But, a few quick tips would be to look for popular designers like Eames, Kagan, Wegner or Jacobson, etc.

These will be easier to certify as originals and many times have tags on the furniture verifying that.

Buy from Design Firms remanufacturing their own original 50s & 60s MCM furniture to ensure you are getting an authentic piece.

There are also Authorized online dealers that are licensed to market vintage designer products.

When it comes to a tight budget, you can still get the modern style you crave! There are tons of Quality Reproductions mid-century products that are very well made at reasonable prices.

Original MCM Furniture (can be expensive)

Originals Currently Re-manufactured

Authorized Dealers

1st Dibs

Charish

Hive

Vitra

Quality Reproductions (reasonably priced)

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How Do Mid-Century Modern Collectors Make Best Finds?

Billy — Tue, 07 Jun 2022 17:01:43 +0000

Antique Collectors Search for What They Love

Start with One Thing That Interests You

Collectors of mid-century modern start by finding something they really adore. For me, that might be George Nelson Clocks. That’s my thing, your thing might be Eames Chairs for instance.

We should lend some advice straight away, that when collecting vintage items (especially if your just starting) you might want to stick with established designers like the ones above.

There are so many to choose from like Ray & Charles Eames, Arne Jacobsen, Finn Juhl, etc. You will surely find styles that really get to you. Buying established designers will be easier to trace (labels) or to appraise by a pro.

With that said, focus on furniture, objects or decor that you would be proud to show off in your home. Something that screams YOU! If it happens to be a loud burnt orange couch with cobalt blue tiger stripes, go for it!

Rule of thumb: When investing in mid-century modern buy what you love! – Mid Mod Scout

Researching MCM Designers & Objects Are Key

Once you’ve defined the designer or object(s) you would love to invest and have in your home, research is key. What does it cost? Are there possible fakes in the market? Are reproductions available and when were they produced?

Authentic Designer Heywood-Wakefield – Room Divider

There are tons of places on the internet to buy authentic, as well as, reproduction MCM designs. After a little research you will be able to see what’s authentic or not.

So, at first you must tread lightly until you find reliable and authorized resources to work with. Buying online CAN be a safe option. Websites such as 1stdibs.com and Chairish.com offer guaranteed designer authorization of their products.

However when you find a company with that much clout, it will cost you more. With deeper research you may find smaller retailers carrying furniture with tags (a stamp of authenticity) for much better pricing. Having a label on an item is like having a certification on a piece of mid century modern furniture

TIP: Avoid buying obscure designers. unless you’ve done the research with proof there is an established market or baseline for pricing. Otherwise stick with blue chip vintage furniture from Eames, Kagan, Wegner or Jacobson, etc. Like investments, the value of original pieces will only increase from designers of this caliber.

Networking – Seek Local Dealers – Join Mid-Century Modern Collector Organizations

Go deeper with your research and get to know your community. Local dealers and shop keepers may be the perfect resource to pick up great deals, if you’ve educated yourself and know what to look for. Also, you may have organisations in your community dedicated to interests that you seek.

Hook up with other mid-century modern collectors to share opinions and knowledge. This could open up a whole new area of designers that you may like! What you learn from others you have a connection with is priceless.

Final Word

Atomic Cones Floor Lamp w/ star-light pinholes + George Nelson Star Clock

Labels are your friend. If original labels are attached to vintage furniture it is a certification the piece is genuine.

Otherwise it may have to be appraised or authorized by a pro. There are so many reproductions on-line you have to be a careful shopper. Do your homework and network.

Mid Century Modern Design covers a very broad and world-wide area. Covering many different approaches to the style including kitsch to very elegant Danish furniture.

This was a very popular trend lasting at least 40 years. Take what you’ve learned from networking about the designs, artifacts and products you love and incorporate them into your home.

Because basically that’s what it gets down to is furnishing your home. Buying the correct pieces can be a nice investment as well!

Tip: Keep up with trends & stay on top of up and coming designers. MCM was so classic that new artists can’t help but borrow elements and incorporate into their own work. Those works may match the style you love and compliment other objects and furniture in your home.

Mid Century Modern Collectors Resources:

Mid Mod Scout Local Resources Page – Find Authentic home decor, art and services nearby

1st Dibs – online authentic mid-century art, fashion, furniture, design

Ebay

Billy

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Gin D. Wong – The Most Iconic Asian American Architect …You’ve Never Heard Of

Chancer Reese — Mon, 31 May 2021 15:05:59 +0000

Gin Wong (1922 – 2017)

As part of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, here at Mid Mod Scout, we wanted to showcase the iconic work of the most overlooked Mid-Century Modern architects, Gin Wong.

Gin D. Wong, was a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (FAIA) and one of several Asian American designers who helped define and influence modernist architecture in mid-century Los Angeles and other parts of Southern California.

Wong’s career spanned over sixty years, beginning with his work as a designer in the prestigious firm of Pereira & Luckman Associates and continuing to his own firm, Gin Wong Associates, resulting in some of L.A. County’s most iconic buildings.

Gin Dop Wong was born on Sept. 17, 1922, in Taishan, Guangdong, China.

Some accounts say he immigrated to Los Angeles with an aunt at age 9 and lived with her until his widowed mother and sister arrived.

Other records show that he sailed on the steamship SS President Coolidge from Hong Kong accompanied by his mother Lee Shee. Lee’s husband Wong Shoo Tan is listed as paying for the tickets.

In either case, as a child, Gin excelled in mathematics, science and drawing. In fact, he once said he found it easier to draw a word than spell it.

In 1942, Wong graduated from John H. Francis Polytechnic High School and went to study engineering at Los Angeles City College before serving in the Army Air Corps. While in the service, he became a naturalized citizen and changed his name to Gin Dan Wong.

The Los Angeles Times, September 8, 2017, wrote that Wong “Served in the Army Air Corps during World War II, participating in major air battles over Japan in 1945 as a lead crew navigator and radar bombardier.”

It was during his stint as an Army navigator that a platoon member whose father was an architect noticed Wong’s skills in math and art (he was always drawing) and suggested that Wong study architecture.

After the war, he studied at the University of Illinois and graduated from the School of Architecture at the University of Southern California.

But in an interview, years later, he said he recognized how helpful being a navigator had been to his work as an architect…”I had to learn how to get from here to there,” he told The Los Angeles Times in 1974. “I had to know how much fuel would be needed and how long the trip would take. The big message was to minimize the odds to survive.”

And it was his skill in minimizing that helped Wong become of an indispensable lead designer for William Pereira at two of his firms, Pereira & Luckman and William L. Pereira & Associates. In this role, he was instrumental in creating some of Los Angeles’ greatest modern structures.

….

LAX Theme Building

While many more famous architects claim credit for their part in the design of the LAX Theme Building, according to an article from 2015, the Los Angeles Times research of the building’s construction notes, showed it was Gin Wong who led the project’s large design team. (Wong is the first man on the left, with noted Black American architect Paul William, is the next to last man on the right)

Union/76 Gas Station

The swooping futuristic wing-like canopy design was originally planned for a different structure at LAX. When that project didn’t work out, Wong recycled the Googie-style concept for a humble gas station in Beverly Hills.

Trudi Sandmeier, the director of graduate programs in heritage conservation at the U.S.C. School of Architecture, said of Wong’s work, “He had a very refined sense of style in terms of his design aesthetic, and if you look at what he did pre-1970s, he had a clear eye for what he wanted to see,” She added, “The gas station was elegant and beautiful, and that was his hallmark.”

ARCO Tower

“I happen to believe in simplicity,” Los Angeles architect Gin Wong once told an interviewer. And this elegant simplicity is easily seen in one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by Wong after forming his own firm, this office tower was constructed in 1989 and remains one of the tallest structures west of the 110 freeway.

Transamerica Tower

And Wong’s love of simple, clean lines can also be seen in the peaked silhouette of the Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco, that he designed.

…

Gin D. Wong struggled with poverty and racism to become one the most influential architects and designers in Southern California and so we are proud to help bring to light some his most famous landmarks.

Chancer Reese

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Mid Century Modern Living Room Ideas – Tropical Home Office Décor

Billy — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 16:30:07 +0000

Mid Century Modern Living Room, your home office and outdoor patio ideas are great places to utilize a Polynesian style.

We’ve gotten quite a lot of attention with our last blog on Exotica Music & Tiki Home Décor. So, this time we’ll give you some more background and some great places to start creating a new atmosphere.

Tropical America

In the 1950’s Americans became infatuated with tropical paradise of the South Pacific islands and Hawaii in particular.

Most citizens never wanted for much during this era. But, the culture was so conservative, mundane & competitive, it was sometimes called “The Rat Race”

Our Mid Century Modern Living Room Ideas

People wanted to escape their drab existence. So, instead of travel we brought the islands home. Exterior and interior decoration created a Polynesian ambience.

Mid Century America arranged outdoor patio ideas which included Hawaiian Luau parties. This started, kind of a “tiki” craze.

Exoctica Mood Music and Tropical Home Décor make for a very calming and relaxing atmosphere. Create new original ideas for your Mid Century Modern Living Room or home office décor. It could enable a more productive environment, especially on a rainy day!

Click images below for some of the best Island products we offer. You will have fun scanning thru these, even if it isn’t your style.

MORE!

Please feel free to explore new ways to experience the South Pacific atmosphere.

Tropical Products

Exotica Music & Tiki Home Décor

All About Tiki Culture

Billy

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Mid Century Modern Architecture by Trailblazing Black Architect Paul R. Williams

Chancer Reese — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 21:39:01 +0000

From Los Angeles, to Palm Springs, to Las Vegas…

Paul R. Williams’ iconic architectural designs shaped much of the mid-century

landscape in Southern California and beyond

Paul Revere Williams (1894-1980) was the first Black American to be accepted as a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). In 2017, the AIA bestowed its highest honor, the AIA Gold Medal, on on this prolific designer and builder … the first African American ever awarded – nearly 40 years after his death.

Williams practiced mostly in Southern California and his career extended over five-decades and during that time he created a prolific portfolio of more than 3,000 buildings that included homes, hotels, banks, churches, hospitals and schools, many of which have become some Southern California’s most famous icons.

The exact number of the projects he was involved is uncertain since some of his records and drawings were damaged or destroyed during the 1992 LA Riots.

As Williams, himself once said, “Expensive homes are my business and social housing is my hobby.”

However during his lifetime, he was nicknamed, “Architect to the Stars” because he designed the homes of such notable celebrities as Frank Sinatra, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Lon Chaney, Barbara Stanwyck, Tyrone Power, and Barron Hilton.

Paul Revere Williams was born in Los Angeles on February 18, 1894 to middle-class parents who had immigrated from Memphis to Los Angeles take advantage of the better opportunities for Black Americans in the West.

However by age four, Williams was orphaned and ended up living with a local family. Raised by a foster mother who encouraged his artistic development, he pursued a career in architecture.

Despite one teacher’s fears that he wouldn’t get work from white clients, and that the black community wouldn’t be able to sustain his practice, he continued his studies at the Los Angeles School of Art and Design.

Later he studied architectural engineering from 1916 to 1919 at the University of Southern California, where he earned his degree. He became a certified Architect in 1921 and became a AIA member in 1923.

…

During World War II, Williams worked for the Navy Department as an architect.

Williams work helped define the Mid Century look and feel of much of Los Angeles, Palm Springs and other parts of Southern California.

Among the most famous of the thousands of buildings he designed during his long career are …

The LAX Theme Building

Williams was famous for his work on the spaceship-like Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), part of a collaboration with noted LAX architects William Pereira, Charles Luckman and Welton Becket.

The Palm Springs Tennis Club

The Palm Springs Tennis Center (created with A Quincy Jones)

The La Concha Motel Lobby

The design I like the best is the futuristic La Concha Motel Lobby in Las Vega, Nevada. When the La Concha Motel was being demolished a consortium of designers, architects and other interested parties raised the funds to save this wonderful landmark. Now it is home to the Neon Museum.

Many people think that the animators of the 1960’s cartoon series the Jetsons might have had some inspiration from this unique building’s design.

….

According to his family, Williams used some uncommon marketing techniques to promote his business. Said one relative in an interview, “He taught himself to draw upside-down so white clients wouldn’t be uncomfortable sitting next to him.”

Williams once said his aim was always to amaze potential clients within a few minutes of meeting and his trademark upside-down sketching no doubt helped. This technique, he also said, would let clients focus on his skills and creativity, rather than his race.

He also learned to design quickly to get a leg up over his white competitors, often promising detailed sketches and designs in less than 24 hours.

“Without having the wish to ‘show them,‘ I developed a fierce desire to ‘show myself,'” Williams wrote in his 1937 essay for American Magazine, I Am a Negro.

Other Commercial Projects by Williams

….

Below are series of images for some of his more famous residential projects.

Frank Sinatra’s House

Lucille Ball & Desi Arnaz’s Palm Spring Home

While Paul R. Williams, designed in many architectural styles over his 50 year career I think his iconic mid century work is best described in his own words.

“I wanted to prove that I, as an individual, deserved a place in the world.”

….

LEARN MORE BELOW

Website references used in this article:

https://www.paulrwilliamsproject.org/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_R._Williams

https://www.kcrw.com/news/shows/greater-la/restaurants-covid-food-media-paul-williams/paul-revere-williams-getty-usc

https://news.usc.edu/trojan-family/pioneering-architect-remembered/

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/why-know-paul-revere-trailblazing-architect-180961378/

https://www.townandcountrymag.com/style/home-decor/g33327566/paul-revere-williams-archive-hollywood-homes/

Videos
https://www.kcet.org/shows/hollywoods-architect-the-paul-r-williams-story/episodes/hollywoods-architect-the-paul-r-williams-story

https://www.pbs.org/video/paul-r-williams-architect-to-the-stars/

Books (no affiliate links)
https://www.amazon.com/Williams-Architect-Karen-Hudson-2000-02-19/dp/B01JXOWZYW

https://www.amazon.com/Regarding-Paul-R-Williams-Photographers/dp/1626400814

Chancer Reese

midmodscout.com