Post WWII + the second home

(This home sits just above 4000’ elevation and echoes the post WWII exodus into nature)

ABOVE HOME: A compact floor plan, a carport in the rear, and simple lines distinguish this home as a Modern mountain hideaway.  The green railing, wall of windows, and open beams are hallmarks of the Mid-century design principles. A stone fireplace holds up the pediment of the homes securing the architecture into the rocky hillside. Can't you see yourself perched on the balcony watching the birds or just relaxing after a day of hiking the elfin forest? ~ Year built and Architect: unknown

Post WWII getaway – the second home

The United States' economy had a surplus of money after the war and more Americans began building second homes.  Ending the Great Depression, WWII put men back to work, and even gave women a taste of earning an income. Families were prosperous, which opened opportunities for travel and vacation.

Popular Homes, Late Spring, 1956
Architects: Lee Mielke and Larry Smith

Print media spread the word and popularized the dream of a vacation retreat in the woods, “where nature at its best brings relaxation from the tempo of everyday living.” (Quoted from 1956’s Popular Home, a publication sponsored by the Tulsa Lumber Company)  Material suppliers hired architects to design conservative “camping lodges” using their products and would advertise the architects name and the building materials via these circulated magazines.

 

Popular Home, Late Spring, 1956 - Architectural rendering of interior.