Modernist homes make a comeback in Melbourne

Once considered a groundbreaking architectural style; the laminate benchtops, wood panelling and floor-to-ceiling windows of mid-century houses have become a rare commodity across Victoria’s property market.

Since their introduction in the 1940s modernist homes dominated Australian suburbia (they were still being built in the 1970s), but today are commonly advertised as “knockdowns” or “prime development” opportunities.

Those that remain are seldom offered to the public. Instead, they are promoted almost solely to enthusiasts.

Independent website Modernist Australia (MA) is dedicated to the preservation of original mid-century homes, documenting the latest modernist property listings Australia-wide.

MA founder Patricia Callan was raised in a mid-century house designed by acclaimed architecture firm McGlashan Everist, the original designers of Heide II at the Heide Museum of Modern Art. 

The website was created when Callan found herself being repeatedly drawn to the architectural style of her childhood home.

“The principles of modernism are the foundation of all good architecture now, especially with regard to building for energy efficiency,” she says.

Callan appreciates all architectural styles built during their periods (“Just do not get me started on ‘reproduction’ builds such Georgian villas built last year,” she says), but believes it’s modernism that’s best suited to the Australian landscape.

“The only problem with these earlier designs is that they are not at all suited to the Australian conditions as they were conceived in northern-hemisphere cultures and climates,” she says.

Despite losing their widespread appeal in the ’90s and early 2000s, the recent revival of ’60s design within pop-culture has resulted in a surge of modernist home enthusiasts, particularly from younger generations. 

Melbourne agents point to Don Draper’s Manhattan apartment on television show Mad Men as an impetus for the sudden increase in popularity.

Kay & Burton’s Rebecca Edwards says: “Many families from Melbourne’s inner north are particularly drawn to this style and its minimalistic appeal.

“In many ways they are returning to the style of their childhood and you can sense in them a feeling of coming home.”

For modernist home owner Libby McLean, the drawcards of modernist design are simple. “Light, light and more light.”

Inspired by the late American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, McLean was able to successfully renovate her house to highlight its modernist layout.

“Orienting a home for the view outside, a certain tree, or how the light fell in that spot in the afternoons, it excited me,” she says.

“This directed my love into a defined style and school of thought.”

The interior styling of these houses is integral to ensure they do not appear dated, and can be achieved by investing in few quality pieces that minimise clutter, and by contrasting wood panels with indoor plants. 

“I would hate to see them disappear and would love for more people to know just how fabulous this era of home is to live in,”  McLean says.

Styling your modernist home

• Provide balance. You don’t want your entire home to look like it’s come from a vintage shop; mid-century doesn’t equal retro.
• Contemporary designs underpinned by function work well with mid-century pieces as they enhance, not detract, from the modernist attitude.
• Use simple lines and a pared-back aesthetic that celebrates form.
• Bold art choices add an element of surprise and a strong focal point. Try works by David Bromley or up-and-coming Melbourne artist Adoni Astrinakis.
• Scale back on the knick-knacks to keep surfaces clutter free.
• Choose one hero piece per room, such as an iconic armchair.
• Mix contemporary designs with authentic vintage for a fresh and relevant look.
• Add plants and greenery to create a seamless flow from indoor to outdoor.
• Team solid, primary colours with natural materials such as timber and leather.

Source: Designer Rebecca Astrinakis of Nathan + Jac and Rebecca Ellie Studio

6 Woodlands Drive, Ocean Grove

Price guide: $925,000 – $975,000
Auction: 11am, May 2
Agent: RT Edgar Ocean Grove, Brock Grainger 0427 855 157
More photos: Domain.com.au

While on the surface it appears to subvert many of the typical modernist qualities (being built in the early ’80s, housing two stories, and without a flat roof) Modernist Australia have long had their eye on this local home.

As Ms Callan says, the home is a bold triangular statement that “manages to exude an abiding homeliness even in the midst of its Besser brick monolithic front,” which attractively contrasts with the area’s traditional coastal cottages.

“We at MA have a serious soft spot for concrete brick homes, and this one utilises the material in such a commanding yet grounded manner, we simply cannot look away,”  Callan says.

Architect-designed and custom-built, the concrete and glass exterior lends itself to a light-filled floor plan, with each room enriched by the unique angular design.

Through the double-door entry is a light-filled atrium spanning over both stories, with a sunken lounge room, opening out to a sun-drenched patio.

Also being sold with the house is its European appliances including a Smeg double oven and Asko dishwasher.

Step outside on the 4000-square-metre block to play on the recently resurfaced tennis court or croquet law, before visiting one of the many world-class beaches in the area.

With three large bedrooms, two bathrooms, a study and a locking garage; there’s nothing dated about the lifestyle this home provides.