Mid-Century Modernism with Monique

Monique welcomes Chad Dewitt, an accomplished architectural designer and the creative force behind Framestudio, to the show. With features in Dwell, California Home and Design, and many more, Chad shares what inspires him about mid-century modern homes, delves into his personal restoration projects (including an interesting take on why Eichlers aren't his favorite), and invites listeners into his world of auction alerts. Join the conversation with a true expert in the field, as they dive into the world of architecture, design, and restoration.   “It instilled in me a dislike of conformity, I like unique, I like one-offs” - Chad   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Curbed Magazine - Chad Dewitt   Frame Studio: https://www.framestud.io/   Instagram: dewitt_20th_century  

Monique welcomes to the show esteemed architect Bruce Avico, a living encyclopedia of mid-century modern history. In this episode, Bruce unveils his journey, from joining the world of Buff and Hensman to pivotal moments that shaped his career.    Join the conversation as they explore the backgrounds of Conrad Buff, Don Hensman, and the influential Calvin Straub, while Bruce discusses the Case Study Houses, reflects on the impact of the 1973/74 energy crisis on architecture, and expresses his deep appreciation for mid-century modernism. Listen in as Bruce reveals his favorite architects and imparts his hopes for the enduring legacy of homes from this timeless era.   “[Why I like mid-century modernism is] kind of like in the renaissance era, there was the high renaissance and I think in modern times, that’s where this landed” - Bruce   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Modern California Houses - 1962 Esther McCoy    Beautiful Homes and Gardens In California - January 1, 1965 by Herbert Weisskamp   Buff and Hensmen - By Don Hensmen & James Steele   Calvin Straub   Ralph Rapson's - Greenbelt House

Monique welcomes Joanne Koch, the founder and principal of Koch Architects, renowned for her work in organic architecture and mid-century modern restoration. In this episode, you'll delve into Joanne's soulful approach to organic architecture, inspired by the mass housing design and vision of the post-war era.   Explore the concept of 'rustic modern' from Joanne's unique perspective, as she shares her personal experiences at Sea Ranch and her work with architectural treasures designed by  luminaries like William Turnbull, John Hants Oswald, and Fred Langhorst.   Join them for an engaging conversation about how spaces influence life and the legacy we leave for the next generation.   “[We ask ourselves] How do we... see [the houses'] new opportunities for now… while keeping the original spirit of them.” - Joanne   -----   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com   Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Koch Architects - www.kocharchitects.com  

Monique's producer, Jacki Mercer, switches roles and interviews Monique about her journey into the world of mid-century modern design. Monique reveals her personal connection to the style, shares the joys of living in a mid-century modern home, and highlights the features that make these homes irresistible to potential buyers.   She dives into the inspiration behind her business, along with how she secured the rights to Eichler floor plans, what makes an Eichler home truly original, and her favorite designers and architects. Tune in to catch a sneak peek of her upcoming projects, and whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of mid-century modern design, you're bound to be inspired.   “I like living in a story, living in a work of art, something that has this unique history, and something that will be here when you’re gone.” - Monique   -----   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Eichler Home Tour   Modern Homes Reality   Youtube Channel - Monique Anton    

Monique invites you to a fun episode recorded at the Eichler Home Tour VIP party just outside the San Mateo Highlands. She interviews eight passionate Eichler home owners and enthusiasts, who share their love for these iconic mid-century modern homes. They explain what makes Eichler homes special and you'll hear from the organizers who've made this event a reality.   Not only is the Eichler Home tour an exciting exploration of 12 Eichler homes, but it's also for a good cause. All proceeds from the tour benefit the Highlands Elementary School PTA, making it an event that brings modernists from across the country together and gives back to the community. Enjoy this unique peek into the world of Eichler homes and the community of people that cherish them.   “We all come together and celebrate the classic Joe Eichler lifestyle of high style, low budget, and a truth to its’ historic preservation” - Drury   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Eichler Home Tour - www.eichlerhometour.com

Monique welcomes her friend, Hannah Simonson, to the show—an architectural historian and cultural resources planner at Page and Turnbull in San Francisco. As the current president of Docomomo US Northern California Chapter, Hannah shares her history with Docomomo and her fascination with the Diamond Heights community.   This episode also offers practical insights into saving historical modern sites and highlights the value of preserving existing buildings. Tune in to learn how to join the Docomomo community and discover some of Hannah's favorite modern sites. Join us for this engaging conversation about preserving the legacy of modern architecture.   “Part of Docomomo’s mission is really about getting information and education out there” - Hannah   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Modern Diamond Heights   Docomomo USA   Docomomo NOCA   Insta @docomomonoca  

Monique welcomes her friend Danny Heller to the show, a globally exhibited artist renowned for his mid-century modern artistry. From his roots in Los Angeles' suburbs to prestigious features in publications like Architectural Digest Spain and California Home and Design, he shares the stories behind his vibrant paintings that capture the essence of the era's architecture. Tune in to hear about his artistic evolution, his unique perspective on iconic structures like the Chemosphere, as well as details about his upcoming New York show and the inspiring message he aims to convey through his art.   “[In] my process, I get to actually visit these places, and that’s reward enough, and then I get to spend time painting them, which is icing on the cake” - Danny   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   YouTube Channel: Monique Anton   Danny Heller Art

Monique invites Karen Nepacena, the visionary behind DestinationEichler.com, to the show. From viral blogs on Eichler restoration to features in Dwell, HGTV, and Atomic Ranch, Karen has left an indelible mark as a designer. Join their conversation as Karen delves into the challenges of Eichler restoration, her newly completed book "Midcentury Modern Style," and her experience featured on Cabin Chronicles. Discover what ignited Karen's passion for mid-century modern style, thrift store treasures she simply can't resist, and the behind-the-scenes scoop on her HGTV journey.   “[The reason Eichlers are special] are because our little 1600 sq ft home was built by someone who built world renowned buildings and then he also put his stamp on these modest houses for families like ours” - Karen   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   ----- Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:    Destination Eichler   Midcentury Modern Style: An Approachable Guide to Inspired Rooms   Cabin Chronicles

Monique chats with the brilliant Alan Hess, an architect, historian, and author of 21 books on Modernism. In this episode, they explore Frank Lloyd Wright's impact on modern architecture, along with the intriguing world of "Googie" design and the way they were able to bring ordinary life into the realm of these mid-century modern designs.    They also touch on architectural legends like Oscar Niemeyer, Alan Bray, Jack Hillmer, and Donald Wexler, along with Alan Hess's preservation efforts, including a surprising McDonald's Drive Thru. Tune in as he shares about his book ‘Forgotten Modern’ and the passion for preserving these iconic spaces that define midcentury modernism.   “For the price of a hamburger and a piece of pie, the average person at a Googy coffee shop could participate in that modern life” - Alan   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Googie Modern: Architectural Drawings of Armet Davis Newlove    Googie: Fifties Coffee Shop Architecture   Alan Hess Website: www.alanhess.net

Monique sits down with Vince Bravo, an art and furniture collector, artist, and expert on Alexander Girard, with an impressive 30-years experience in vintage furnishings and mid-century decorative arts. Tune in as he shares the origins of his art collection, his restoration of mid-century furniture, and the stories of the unique pieces he's acquired along the way, including an Alexander Girard-designed tortilla wrapper. Join them as they explore the treasures of timeless classics and delve into the fascinating history behind Alexander Girard's iconic designs.    “I started buying things like Troll dolls and Zippo lighters and Levi jeans… that was really what got me into the business” - Vince   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   ----- Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Vince Bravo Website   Instagram @mrvincebravo   Gitman Vintage   The Girard Studio   Book: Todd Oldham - Alexander Girard  

Monique welcomes Matt Bliss, founder of Modern Christmas Trees, on today's episode. Matt shares the story of how his grandfather's 1966 modern Christmas tree design inspired him to start the business, along with the story of his appearance on Shark Tank and how he fell in love with mid-century modern design.    From exclusive photoshoots in iconic mid-century modern homes, to being a beloved tradition in many families, his trees have charmed modernists and non-modernists alike. Plus, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of the special "Christmas in July" promo happening right now on their website!   “That’s the thing, the idea of minimalism, which is a part of mid-century modern design. How do you make things user friendly and as easy as humanly possible... and we spent a lot of time figuring out how to achieve all that” - Matt   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    - Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   - Modern Christmas Trees

Monique is joined by Greg Kelly, founder and president of Modbox USA, to talk about his journey in the world of midcentury modernism. They discuss Greg's frustration with the lack of available products and how it led to the birth of Modbox USA through his quest for the perfect mailbox, and the support he received from the MCM community to bring his vision to life. They also touch on Modbox's expansion beyond mailboxes and Greg's exciting collaboration with Atomic Ranch on a curb appeal contest. He has been featured in renowned magazines such as Dwell, Atomic Ranch, Palm Springs Style, and Adore Homes Magazine.   “There was a point in the 60’s where my parents bought some furniture that was very mid-century, and it just had such a cool look and vibe about it; that’s when we kicked in on the mid-century phase… it just spoke to us” - Greg   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Modbox USA   Atomic Ranch Curb Appeal Contest  

Monique sits down with the talented architect, Stanley Saitowitz. From his early years growing up in South Africa, Saitowitz shares his deep love for architecture that ignited during his youth. They delve into his bold and larger-than-life designs, highlighting a few extraordinary house and building creations and the intriguing blend of nature and architecture that defines his work. Saitowitz's extensive expertise shines through as he discusses his work as an author, his teaching experiences at renowned institutions, and his insights on the future of architecture. Tune in to this episode for a dose of inspiration and valuable insights as he helps shape the future of aspiring architects.     “I used to watch these buildings being built and from that I started getting interested in this process of making things appear out of nothing… it was kind of a magical sort of activity” - Stanley     If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    - Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Website: Stanley Saitowitz   Book: Stanley Saitowitz: Buildings and Projects   Book: Stanley Saitowitz/Natoma Architects: Seventy-five Works  

Monique welcomes her friend and the incredibly talented interior designer, Melinda Mandell, to today's episode. Having been featured on the pages of esteemed publications like San Francisco Cottages & Gardens, Modern Luxury Silicon Valley, California Home + Design, Melinda brings a wealth of expertise and creativity that will inspire you to express yourself in your own home. They discuss Melinda's knack for seamlessly merging different styles and eras in her home designs along with her family ties to Eichler and how the love for this architectural style runs deep in her bloodline. Tune in as they attempt to uncover the difference between modern, mid-century modern, and contemporary aesthetic, and discover some of the secrets behind Melinda's seamless style and design blending.   “Our homes are such a place for us to be able to experiment and to express our own personality and express our own perspective of the world… Why can’t a lot of these things go together?” - Melinda   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   ----- Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique   -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Melinda Mandell Interior Design   Instagram: @melindamandell

Monique welcomes George Smart, the founder and CEO of US Modernist, the world's largest non-profit educational archive for modernist residential design, to her podcast. Affectionately known as "Mr. Modernism”, George shares his journey of documenting 20,000 modernist houses and becoming the epicenter for all things mid-century modern. Monique marvels at his detective skills in connecting with people related to the modernist world and hosting incredible parties to celebrate these architectural gems. They explore the defining features of a modernist house, leaving listeners with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and significance of mid-century modernism.   “The goal of all this, of everything we do ultimately, is to keep these houses from being destroyed… that’s it” - George    If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more. -----  Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com      Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique      -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   US Modernist   Instagram Handle: @mr.modernism

Monique chats with historian and author Heather David, known for her books “Motel California" and "Mid-century by the Bay: A Celebration of the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1950s and 1960s." They discuss Heather's childhood love of mid-century modern buildings, the allure of this architectural style, and her exploration of motel and sign preservation. Enjoy some laughter as they recount the restoration tale of Tiki Bob and reminisce about Heather's crush on a specific mid-century building.  Join the conversation as they explore how preserving old buildings and signs not only tells a story but also creates a profound sense of place!   “I think If you care about something, you are naturally inquisitive and you want to know the story” -Heather   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   ------  Let's Connect!    - Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Mid-century by the Bay: A Celebration of the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1950s and 1960s   Motel California   Preservation Action Council of San Jose  

Monique welcomes Curt Cline, owner and principal architect of Modern House Architects. Discover why Curt is Monique's top choice when it comes to architects, as they delve into his journey from the Midwest, his devotion to preserving Eichler remodels, his admiration for architectural pioneers, and his ingenious approach to ADUs. Discover how Curt demonstrates his versatility across properties of all sizes and budgets, seamlessly bridging the worlds of new construction and the timeless allure of the past.   “My client asked me, ‘Oh my gosh, what did you do?’ And I replied, ‘I took 50 years of bad decisions off of your house’” - Curt   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     ----- Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Modern House Architects

Monique is joined by Cindy Carey and Marissa Smith from Starburst Construction, a dynamic team who excel at keeping the minimalist look of the midcentury design clean and fresh. Join us as we delve into their journey in the business, their mindful approach to working with Eichlers, and how they beautifully integrate the landscape into the design while maintaining the integrity of these architectural gems. Get ready to be inspired by the synchronistic team of Starburst Construction.   “If you want to better those infrastructures that are going to last the house another 50-60 years, you’ve got to put the time in and do it the right way so you get the most out of it” - Marissa   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Starburst Construction

Monique is joined by Paul Adamson, a San Francisco-based architect, writer, educator, and preservation advocate. Join them as they explore his journey into architecture, his family's artistic legacy, and the lessons on sustainability found in Eichler homes. Discover the passion and advocacy that drives Paul's work, while unraveling the influences of his architectural heroes and mentors.    “Where is more important to have good work than in a dwelling: this is the background for ones life... and having a great circumstance, even if it’s modest in scale, to live in when you’re growing up can be the foundation of a beautiful life” - Paul   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   ----- Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique     Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Worthen Foundation AIASF Design Competition AIASF - Shape Your City   Eichler: Modernism Rebuilds the American Dream By Paul Adamson

Monique is joined by Raymond Neutra, son of Richard Neutra, one of the fathers of modernist architecture, who shares his extensive efforts in documenting and preserving his father's works. Join them as they explore what makes up good design, the peaceful atmosphere of mid-century modern homes, and the profound connection these visionary architects had with nature. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the enduring legacy of Richard Neutra and Raymond's significant role in preserving modernist architecture.   “His commitment was to the landscape, the physiological well-being of people, and also to new technology; to use it in a way that would make this kind of living affordable” - Raymond   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    - Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com      Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique      Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique   -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   The Neutra Institute for Survival Through Design