Steve Jobs: How to live before you die | Video on TED.com

Steve Jobs: How to live before you die Video on TED.com

Architectural Styles Mid Century Modern


What is all the buzz about Mid Century Modern?  Certainly, that style is mentioned every where by designers.  I checked an excellent reference for Architectural Styles, and nowhere is Mid Century Modern described.  There is Victorian, Italianate, Prairie, Craftsman, Art Deco and Neo Classical plus many others. A current google search of "Mid Century Modern Homes" however generated 30,700,000 references.


Wikipedia describes Mid Century Modern as the time period from roughly 1933-1965.  The term was coined by Cara Greenberg in 1983 for her book Mid-Century Modern: Furniture of the 1950s.  Wiki describes Mid Century Modern as an architectural, interior and product design form that generally describes mid-20th century developments in modern design, architecture, and urban development.  Some of the leaders in this style were Joseph Eichler, Frank Lloyd Wright, George Fred Keck, Henry Glass, and Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe.


I have had a theory in forming in my mind that during times of economic stress or uncertainty, that our natural desire is to turn to the things of the past.  Those things that bring comfort and a sense of security.  I have noticed that some current automobile colors are a throwback to the not too distant past.  There are some unusual shades of green (think neon/vibrant colors) and orange (very vivid).  Bright red lipstick is popular again just as it was in days gone by when our country was at war in the 1940's.  It has been said that when the economy is suffering, lipstick sales actually go up.  Perhaps lipstick is an affordable way to pamper and to provide some self nurturing.


Mid Century Modern is a return to the solid things in life, where space is not wasted--but celebrated.  Windows cover an expanse of wall and bring the outside in.   The organic and the free flowing are highlighted.  Design and function are both highlighted.


Do you have a sample of Mid Century Modern that you find appealing?  Share it here.  I would love to have your input.

Mid Century Modern Designs by Avriel Shull, a Female Architect in Carmel, Indiana


Indianapolis has its own Mid Century Modern inspired builders.  One of them was Avriel Shull, who lived from  1933-1976.  Avriel divided some of her family's land in Carmel, IN and created a Mid Century Modern neighborhood.  The neighborhood still exists today and features the open spaces and beautiful windows characteristic of that era.   Pictured above is one of the homes Avriel built in Thornhurst.  Avriel was unusual for her time.  Very few females were builders.  She was first an artist, then became an architect with no formal architectural training.  She designed her first home at the age of 23.  Avriel went on to design Ladywood Estates, a striking apartment community on the east side of Indianapolis.  She also designed a library in northern Indiana and one in California, and homes in some of the most highly regarded neighborhoods of that day in Indianapolis.


Sadly Avriel passed away at the age of 43, dying of complications from diabetes.  Her work will remain part of the heritage of Indiana.

Just Sold in Westfield


A myriad of windows & light filled spaces set this home apart. An easy open flowing floorplan connects the stepdown Great Room to the cherry cabinet kitchen with center island & planning desk. A main floor study is highlighted by stunning stacked windows & 12 ft ceiling. The Master Suite is a spacious retreat with soaking tub, separate shower & extensive closet space. There is not a small bedroom in sight and a rare 3 full baths upstairs. Swimming pool, ball fields, trails, tenniscourts and more make this a wonderful neighborhood to call home.
16133 Dandborn Green

It is a Great Time to Buy a Home. 5 Reasons to Buy a Home Now

Welcome to 2010. It is a wonderful time to buy a home.  



*Interest rates are still at historic lows and the *inventory of homes is plentiful. More homes will come on the market in the month of January as sellers who have been waiting to get past the holiday season are ready to offer their home for sale.



*There are less buyers in the market now than there will be in the Spring, the traditionally most active time of the year. So there is less competition for the home you may want.



*The home buyers tax credit will end April 30th. Offers must be accepted by that date, and closings must take place no later than June 30th. 1st time buyers receive a credit of $8500, and 2nd, 3rd, 4th time buyers will receive $6500 tax credits. Click here to check on the criteria for qualifying.



*Winter is an excellent time to check on the energy efficiency of homes. Feel the areas around doors and windows to see if air flow is noticeable. Does the home seem well constructed? Look at the roof if there is snow to see if the snow is melting evenly. An area that is melting much faster than others may indicate a lack of insulation. Heat is escaping in that area.



Homes are more completely tested during weather extremes. An inspection on the home you choose will be even more beneficial in revealing areas that need improvement.



*Interest rates are at historic lows. During the last 6 months of 2010, rates are expected to increase again. By buying now, you may save significantly on your monthly payment. Even an extra $200 savings a month equals $2400/year and $72,000 over 30 years, the life of the loan.
Reblog this post [with Zemanta]