It is generally accepted that “mid-century”, from an architectural design perspective, is the period post the end of the second World War through the 1950s and ending in the late 1960s.
The style evolved out of the Modernism style, from the early 20th century, which included the International and Bauhaus movements.
Post the Second World War ending in 1945, a population boom required properties whose simple design enabled them to built quickly and efficiently.
Mid-century design is characterised by:
- Flat or single angled roof lines
- Introduction of light – large windows – often floor to ceiling, central courtyards used as source of light and a preference for a northern orientation to the living room
- Open plan
- Deliberate exposure of materials (for example timber ceilings, blockwork, bricks)
- Split levels and sunken living areas
- Connection of indoor and outdoor spaces
- Lack of ornamentation – an emphasis on function
- Simple forms
As a Melbourne buyers agent looking for mid-century properties, the greatest concentration of them is south of the Yarra river – in Beaumaris, Kew, Caulfield North, Caulfield, St Kilda East and Elsternwick.
North of the Yarra Ivanhoe has some stunning examples.
While mid-century does not have the broad appeal with inner city Melbourne buyers of Victorian, Federation, Deco etc., its appeal is growing and I anticipate them becoming even more popular.
Perhaps proof of this is the number of new inner-city developments – whether they be house, townhouses or apartments – where reference is made to mid-century design, in the design itself (for example exposed blockwork), and the marketing where some of the connections I think are fairly tenuous!
While not “mid-century” in a pure architectural style sense, I see opportunity in unglamorous 1960s clinker brick three and four bedroom houses in suburbs in the 12-18 km ring from the CBD (for example Reservoir, Lalor, Thomastown) that are walking distance to a train station. Often these can be transformed via a “cosmetic renovation” at a relatively low cost and in a matter of weeks not months.
Mid-century apartments in Toorak I see as another “mid-century niche” where buyers can do well. Comparative to more modern apartments at a similar price point, they have larger floor plates, few apartments in the complex, greater set-back from the boundaries of the block, making the overall complex feel more spacious and with a sense of “heritage charm”.
This charm factor helps both in terms of making them a more pleasant environment in which to live and with re-sale value.
I think the demolition of so many mid-century properties (very few gained heritage listing protection) has been a real shame for the richness of Melbourne’s architectural landscape. Made even worse by some of the hideous building company package houses that have taken their place.
