Some things just never go out of style: red lipstick, martinis, The Beatles, minimalistic post-war architecture.
While Mid-century Modern design may not be the easiest to spot in Kansas City, it’s still one of the metro’s most notable architectural styles.
Where did it come from?
Like many trends in the mid-20th century (i.e. our Baby Boomer readers), this design style was birthed out of a post-war mindset. Soldiers returned home with a greater appreciation for family + nature, making way for entertaining-friendly open floor plans, oversized windows, and trendy indoor/outdoor spaces.
Most of Kansas City’s Mid-century Modern buildings were constructed from 1949 to 1969, largely inspired by Bauhaus and high-prairie design. Famous architects of the era who worked in and around KC include Don Drummond, Bruce Goff, Sam Symons, and Frank Lloyd Wright.
Spot that style
You can find Mid-century Modern all across the metro, but a large concentration of it exists west of State Line Rd. Kansas’ Johnson County suburbs were building out prolifically at the time, and areas like Leawood’s Aberdeen neighborhood or OP’s Broadmoor Ranch Historic District are rife with MCM.
On the house hunt? Keep an eye out for the telltale signs of Mid-century Modern style:
- Simple sloped or flat rooflines
- Floor-to-ceiling windows
- Changes in elevation (i.e. split-levels)
- Minimal, geometric decoration
- Access to the outdoors
Love it? Live it
If you like what you’re reading, check out some KC Mid-century Modern homes on the market today.
- New build MCM | $1.12 million | 4BD, 5BA | This Fairway home has Mid-century-inspired touches — like its chic roofline — while featuring modern amenities (read: walk-in closets + new appliances).
- MCM Ranch | $675,000 | 4BD, 2BA | Built in 1964, fall in love with its original fireplace, quartz countertops, and luxury tile flooring before taking a dip in the saltwater pool.
- Westwood MCM | $665,000 | 3BD, 3BA | Exposed beams, curved brick fireplace, heated floors — there’s a lot to see in this spacious State Line-adjacent home.
