If there’s one thing we know about the 1970s and 1980s, these decades reveled in bold, irreverent energy. The worlds of art and architecture were no exception. Architects and builders inspired by iconic visionaries such as Venturi and Moore dared to embrace the nonconforming attitude of the times. They pushed the boundaries of what a home could be, encouraging us to embrace the unexpected, celebrate the quirks, and live life with a little more whimsy.
Homes designed during this period embodied a playful, theatrical spirit and were undeniably “extra.”
Diving into ’70s and ’80s architecture is like exploring a mixtape of styles. The post-modernists gleefully raided the entire history of architecture, moving beyond any single architectural influence.
Layers of Intrigue
Imagine stepping into a world where architecture is a fusion of fantasies: a building that combines a Greek temple-inspired entrance with the unexpected charm of a Victorian turret feels right at home. This is the essence of the postmodernist spirit — vibrant and brimming with surprises, much like a playlist where each track is a different genre. Such an eclectic blend, adorned with intentional decorative flourishes, serves as postmodernism’s bold rebuttal to the austere minimalism once upheld by modernism.
Postmodernists rejected simplicity, instead embracing a design rich in complexity and layers, crafting the perfect backdrop that mirrored the era’s thriving music scene, iconic fashion, and non-conformist culture. This architectural canvas intertwined and vividly captured the energy of an unforgettable time, making it my ultimate time machine destination for everything cool. Can you dig it? I knew that you could.
Modern Paper Houses
Fortunately, homeowners and design enthusiasts are giving these unconventional beauties a second look, whether it’s mid-century modern fatigue setting in or just nostalgia; it’s exciting news for those of us who have a passion for these unique homes.
Let’s Open The Photo Album
This era of residential design saw distinctive interpretations of various styles, from the familiar shed, ranch, and split level to more complex, pluralistic designs that weave together diverse influences and elements. The image below showcases this pluralistic approach in action.
How many different design elements did you find?
Rancho Deluxe
Not all Modern Paper Houses are strong in form; some design details are more subtle. One standout in this mix of pics is the rambling ranch; at first glance, it maintains a mid-century vibe from the 60s – think Mad Men sophistication mingling with Brady Bunch warmth. But there is more to this style than meets the eye. Picture this: you approach the house, and what grabs your attention isn’t the low-slung roofline, the signature of ranch-style homes; oh, no, that design element becomes secondary. The entrance steals the spotlight with its oversized pitched porte cochere (french for carriage door) framing the double doors, injecting a dose of serious drama into the home’s front facade. And those stone columns? They’re a statement. The home’s dramatic entrance is a throwback to trendy motor courts that were popular in the 70s. All that’s missing is a vintage Mustang convertible, dark sunglasses, and me behind the wheel, ready to roll up to this cool casa.
Shedding Conventions
This shed-style house is another gem from my pics; I love this; the front facade of this beauty gives nothing away. While the 70s were known for its glitz, the shed often carries a touch of minimalism. The clean lines create a sense of tranquility. It’s a reminder that amidst the hyped energy of the disco era, there was also a desire for calm and simplicity. At the heart of the shed style is its distinctive roofline. Departing from the traditional gable roofs we often see, the shed boasts a dramatically pitched roof. This roof style is not only eye-catching but also functional. The slope is often oriented to capture the best views or optimize solar exposure for energy efficiency, connecting the home’s interior to its natural surroundings. Before you wonder about the mysteriously windowless front facade, here’s a heads up — the windows are on the back and sides of the house. So, yes, there’s plenty of light and views — just from a less expected angle.
Looking Toward The Future
Geodesic dome homes, often called geodome or simply dome homes, gained popularity in the 70s and became an iconic symbol of the era’s architectural experimentation. These unique structures were designed by American architect and inventor R. Buckminster Fuller, who patented the geodesic dome in 1954. The homes, seen as a symbol of counterculture living, sustainability, and non-conformity, often housed communities and individuals who sought alternative lifestyles and were environmentally conscious. Geo domes characterized by their futuristic, space-age appearance aligned with the era’s national fascination with space exploration. I thought we would be living in a geodome on Mars by now; wasn’t that the story? I am a little disappointed. Is it just me? And according to my vintage Popular Mechanics magazines, a flying car came with it. Remember the Jetsons living in a geo-dome high-rise? Zipping around Orbit City.
Form Over Function
With ornamentation taking precedence over functionality, Modern Paper Houses often took on a whimsical character, with faux windows and turrets adding a touch of fantasy and extravagance to residential exteriors. The design philosophy “more is more” reigned supreme. Stained glass, ornate moldings, and sculpted friezes broke free from tradition and made their way into 70s and 80s residential design. Whether it’s candy-colored front doors or trim painted in rainbow hues, these decorative details allowed for creative self-expression.
Artistic statements and glass blocks
I think glass blocks have gotten a bad rep, and I know many people don’t like them. The first thing homeowners do when renovating a Modern Paper House is remove them, but I have to say, I like them. The example in the pic below shows how well they can work as a design element. I have other photos to share in upcoming posts that may sway you into reconsidering pitching them during your renovations.
Below is a postmodern take on the international style. It is so cheeky; don’t you love the curves of the front facade? Just brilliant. The playful yet sophisticated design blends form with function, challenging the straight lines and rigid structures often associated with the International Style. Its whimsical curves and glass block windows capture the humor and irreverence of postmodern architecture in a spirited fashion.
Ok, that is it for Volume I of my gallery of photos I’ve collected or taken over the years. I’m putting together another fun album, so subscribe, my fellow house lovers. Thank you for checking out Modern Paper Houses.
