There’s something about midcentury modern homes that gets me all excited. Maybe it’s the sleek lines, giant glass windows, and wood paneling that are characteristic of the period’s style. Or maybe it’s because I can picture the parties at the homes with beautiful ladies dressed up in cocktail dresses and the gentlemen decked out in sleek suits.
If you are like me and midcentury modern design tickles your fancy, stop by Docomomo US/MN’s Modern Homes Tour this Saturday, October 5 from 10 a.m.to noon. Docomomo US/MN is an all volunteer non-profit that is dedicated to documenting, educating, and preserving midcentury modern architecture. As a volunteer board member for this organization, I can tell you that personally, I’m really excited to see the lineup of homes on this year’s tour!
John Polivka designed this Edina house in 1959
The self-led driving tour will start in the morning from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at homes designed by Ralph Rapson, Lisl and Wyn Close, Thomas Ellerbe, and Brooks Cavin.
After starting the morning tour in the east metro, tour attendees will move over into the west metro to tour homes designed by James Stageberg and John Polivka from 1-3 p.m.
Philip Johnson’s “Davis house,” built in 1952.
Don’t forget there’s a special treat at the end of the tour! An after-party from 3:30 p.m.-5 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be held at the “Davis house.” This house was designed for MIA curator Richard S. Davis and his wife by famed architect, Philip Johnson, best know for his “glass house” in Conneticut.
Tickets are available and range from $25 for Docomomo US/MN members, $35 for non-members, and $15 for students. For more information about the tour, visit Docomomo US/MN’s website.
