While mid-century modern homes were built between 1945 and the early 1980s, it is safe to say this architectural and design trend will never go out of style. Birthed in hopes of not only improving the way modern living focuses on the family, but improving modern society altogether. Inspired by upscale prairie architecture, mid-century homes were designed by a generation of modern architects, such as Walter Gropius and Marcel Breuer, who fled the rise of Nazi Germany.
You will notice most mid-century homes share flat roofs but the key components lie in the open floor plans and floor-to-ceiling-glass windows. The giant sliding-glass doors motivated people to go outside and enjoy the nature around them. Traditional homes usually feature windows that children aren’t tall enough to gaze out of. Walls of glass found in midcentury gems allowed children to become engaged and open-minded because the environment uniquely stimulated the senses, inspiring them and their families to explore the world through a new lens. Following World War II, they needed materials quickly and utilized materials such as steel, stucco, plywood, and aluminum to accommodate the growing U.S. population.
Today, not much has changed. Masterpieces of the era’s most notable – from Richard Neutra, John Lautner, and Rudolph Schindler – remain highly coveted. In fact, Hilton & Hyland has compiled a list of some of the most luxury mid-century modern homes below. Who knows – maybe you’ll find a Neutra or a Lautner among them.
400 Castle Place | TrousdaleRepresented by Rona Passman
Built by Robert Skinner (AIA) in 1962, this exquisite mid-century masterpiece was recently updated with the finest modern luxuries while keeping true to era. Gated on a quiet cul-de-sac in coveted Trousdale Estates, this property is perfect for the connoisseur who wants to live in a work of art. Skylights flood the home with natural light and the open floor plan creates terrific indoor-outdoor flow. The picturesque pool area is a Southern California dream with an outdoor fireplace and multiple seating areas. Surrounded by lush, mature trees for privacy, this residence is a truly rare and special trophy property that could not be replicated today.
201 Bentley Circle | Bel-AirRepresented by Drew Fenton 
Built in 1954 by Richard Neutra, the Hammerman House is a rare and highly prized, impeccably maintained modern gem with views at every turn. Sited behind gates up a long driveway on over a half of an acre with expansive westward views reaching to the Pacific Oceans, this 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath residence is a masterpiece of modernism. There are very few Neutra’s of this scale, setting, and quality remain on the Westside of Los Angeles. Updated and expanded in keeping with Neutra’s original plans by a noted Neutra scholar/architect.
1505 Blue Jay Way | Bird StreetsRepresented by Patrick Fogarty
Beautiful, redone, mid-century home located on Blue Jay Way. Arguably the best street in the coveted “Bird Streets” and Los Angeles. This tasteful home offers 3 bedrooms, theater, open kitchen, floor to ceiling glass, speakers throughout, security system, beautiful oval-shaped pool, and the most spectacular showcase garage with views to downtown. Custom built fireplace, outdoor bar and lounging areas surrounded by privacy hedges make this the perfect private retreat only minutes from the excitement of Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills.
16872 Bosque Drive | EncinoRepresented by David Kramer and Ziv Gabay
Recently renovated, this mid-century modern with classic design touches offers the ultimate in California lifestyle by blending indoor and outdoor living via a 36’ glass wall system by Fleetwood. Designed with the modern-day entertainer in mind, the gourmet kitchen and dining area blend seamlessly with the trellised patio, outdoor fireplace, flat, grassy yard and a saltwater infinity edged pool. The residence is fully gated with lush landscaping providing tons of privacy and serenity.
5699 Holly Oak Drive | Los FelizRepresented by Brett Lawyer
Boasting steel, glass, new terrazzo, and flooded with natural light, this stunning restored mid-century jewel is tucked away in a Los Feliz Oaks cul-de-sac. The multi-year endeavor has yielded a truly sophisticated and period rich example of modernism. With astounding city views at every turn, the oversized entertainment decks and expansive hillside garden spaces with mature trees make this property an oasis of its own.
1840 Deermont Road | GlendaleRepresented by Alphonso Lascano and Bjorn Farrugia
Perched on a promontory in the foothills of Glendale stands this completely updated mid-century view home. With commanding views of the entire city, this single-story home boast four bedrooms and four updated baths. From the moment, you walk through the oversized double door entry you are greeted with gleaming wood floors and a 10 foot ceiling and floor to ceiling windows highlighting the jet liner views. This stunning haven is the ultimate contemporary retreat.