Contemporary Homes: Being Square is IN!

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.