Out with the curves and in with sharp, straight edges...
...Contemporary design, circa 1960's is IN! During the late 1960's, contemporary plans were all the rave. The styling is a combination of several vastly 
different styles, pulled into one:
- Front-load garages for cost effectiveness
- Shallow pitched roofs with sharp edged archtectural design
- Simple, clean lines that are cost effective to build but, are nonetheless attractive
- Large, full-wall windows that follow the roof gables, bringing the outdoors inside
- A mixture of materials on the exterior (brick, stone, siding and stucco)
- Continuous flow in design, creating a more modern living space
The modern contemporary floorplan seamlessly molds efficiency with timeless style and quality. Post World War II contemporary leaned towards the artistic, whereas new contemporary homes offer more utilitarian features.
Frank Lloyd Wright was among the WWII contemporary building pioneers whose style opened the doors to architectural artistic expression in organic, contemporary style. These bold styles were new to the U.S. and certainly, a 180-degree change from the Colonial style, which had been so popular for so many years.
Presently, the craftsman is the mark of the contemporary home. Style and utility are in fine balance in the crafted home. Structures are designed to cater to the homeowner--keeping them in synch with the surroundings; stylish but, not stuffy! The crafted home allows for a wide variety of architectural taste and/or flare. Clean, sheek lines and lower pitched roofs seem to make a strong statement but, allows an unparalled freedom of personal expression--comfortable, classy or chic; the crafted home offers modern luxury that the traditional home does not permit.
The Post World War II design, also known as the Mid Century Modern home, is characterized by features that combine the living areas--such as the living room and dining room, vaulted ceilings, large, exposed beams and geometric forms which draw sharp rooflines and use glass extensively to bring in the natural lighting from the outdoors.
Despite the extensive use of glass in these homes, most of the Mid Century Modern homes are built more energy efficient and the new designs and building materials have taken energy efficiency to a whole new level! Because green building in Charlotte NC has become so popular, these homes have risen in popularity as well.
Some of the popular neighborhoods featuring contemporary Mid Century Modern homes in Charlotte NC include:
- Tega Cay & River Hills in SC
- Midwood
- NoDa (Arts District)
- Dilworth
- Cotswold
- Lansdowne
- Stonehaven
- Pellyn Wood
Here is an example of one that is currently marketed by Curt Seifart with my firm. Call Curt or myself for information from Charlotte's Contemporary Realtors®.
For more information on Contemporary homes in Charlotte NC, read Curt's article.
If you're interested in Mid Century Modern or contemporary homes in Charlotte NC, contact Curt or I and we'll be happy to assist you!
Curt Seifart, Direct: 704-944-9230
Debe Maxwell, Direct: 703-491-3310
About the author:
Debe Maxwell is a Charlotte Residential Real Estate Broker, Certified Neighborhood & Relocation Specialist, ABR & e-PRO who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Charlotte NC Metro Area. If you're relocating to or from any other area of the country, Debe connects you with any member of her team of relocation professionals in your destination or exit city of choice. The destination service is of no cost to you! The Maxwell House Group's quality service guarantee puts this team far ahead of the competition; providing unsurpassed customer service is their #1 priority! Debe Maxwell -- Helen Adams Realty -- 704.491.3310
Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is strictly an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.
(THE best Charlotte home search available - no kidding!)
Debe Maxwell, CRS/Realtor®/Broker
Broker@TheCharlotteScoop.com
Phone (704) 491-3310
Debe --- very interesting --- personally, this is not my style, but I know that it appeals to a lot of the younger generation of today's world. Good Luck.
Hi Debe-I have noticed this trend as well. Great post. Have a great week. :-)
Now that's an interesting house! I've got a 60's style California Ranch that is pretty cool! Still need to get the updating done that I want.....darn real estate market!
Love the house in Landsdowne!
Debe, great localism post. Don't see this trend too much in my area.
Debe, I love marketing and selling contemporary homes. It takes a special buyer and they usually are on the market longer.
Just left you a voice message.
Debe, Charlotte always has had a wonderful mix of different homes inventory. I am more partial to craftsmen then contemporary. I certainly do not need three sets of stairs.
Hi MamaLiz! You know, I'm more of a traditional person as well but, I am SO drawn to this style for some reason--perhaps it's from being a teen in the 70's and my friends who lived in these homes just had THE coolest houses!
Hi Rebecca! We don't have ALOT of them in our area but, certain areas are more appealing to the type of buyer who loves this style.
Hi Margaret! Great chatting with you! Hope you enjoyed your class! And, yes these are typically on the market a bit longer because the target buyer pool is much smaller for these types of homes. However, lately, their popularity is surging again--with all of the green building promotions!
Hi Larry! Many of the craftsman homes in Charlotte NC are simply stunning! Dilworth is full of them and you know I just LOVE that area! The contemporary homes in Charlotte NC certainly do fit a particular demographic than the traditional 2-story or ranch style homes!
Hi PattyP! Hope you have a great week too and thans so much for reading and commenting! I'm glad this trend is surging again--I live in a traditional home but, the contemporary homes in Charlotte NC are certainly appealing to me as well!
Hi Thom! You've got PLENTY of time to rehab that ranch! And when the market turns around--the population will be older and you KNOW how quickly those ranches go!
Have a great week...
Hey Debe - I'm a big fan of Craftsman homes, and while the box with windows is interesting, it's not my thing - LOL
Debi
That is our plan...being a realtor I get sick of seeing the same old thing, my husband and I have plunged into finding a good lot for a california modern contemporary....hopefully soon! steel, concrete, walls of windows and wood! Great combo!
The Contemporary home at 2919 Wesley Avenue received multiple offers and closed November 03. The list price was $339,000. The selling price was $331,000.