8 Mid-Century Modern Classics Priced Over $1 Million

Would you pay a million bucks for a home that’s more than 40 years old? Well, some sellers hope the skyrocketing allure of classic Mid-Century Modern design will spur home buyers to dip into their deepest pockets.

Of the approximately 1,400 self-described Mid-Century Modern homes built in the ’50s and ’60s currently for sale across the country, a select group of 273 are priced over $1 million. And over half of these listings are in California, the Mid-Century Modern epicenter of the U.S.

And while these iconic designs serving up a seamless blending of indoor and outdoor space are a California specialty, homes from that design school and era do exist outside the West Coast.

“Modern houses are more popular than ever,” says George Smart, executive director of the nonprofit North Carolina Modernist Houses. As for the high cost, “it just really all depends on the condition of the houses.”

It helps that Mid-Century Modern designs, often dating back a half-century or more, mesh well with current ethos and home buyer aesthetics, he adds. These houses are associated with “green building” and have “great vibes.”

The rarity of the homes is also a factor.

“The market’s huge because of supply and demand,” says Monique Lombardelli, a Mid-Century Modern specialist with Palo Alto–based Modern Homes Realty. “People want to become stewards of the homes. It’s almost like owning a piece of art. It’s the same type of craving to experience that artistic design.”

For artsy home collectors with fat wallets, we’ve highlighted a few shining examples of these million-dollar Mid-Century Modern gems.

739 El Cerrito Ave Hillsborough, CA

Price: $3,495,000
Modern mention: Designed for the owners 58 years ago, the two-bed, two-bath home spans three-quarters of an acre on a creekside setting. The walls of glass look out to the serene surroundings and a pool. Features include parquet floors, soaring ceilings, multiple decks, and an open kitchen.

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300 Bella Dr, Metairie, LA

Price: $1,595,000
Modern mention: A 1951 home where every room has a garden view. Vaulted ceilings, a modernized kitchen with granite counters and stainless-steel appliances, and a living space with walls of windows that look out to the Japanese plantings and gazebo.

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999 N Rodeo Gulch Rd, Soquel, CA

Price: $4,450,000
Modern mention: If you get a distinct Frank Lloyd Wright vibe from this home, it’s because it was designed by one of the legendary architect’s colleagues, Aaron Green. The custom home combines sandstone masonry, teak, and redwood, and includes a tennis court, pool, fire pit, and Japanese garden.

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1799 Mount Curve Ave, Minneapolis, MN

Price: $2,300,000
Modern mention: Yes, you can have floor-to-ceiling windows, even in frigid Minneapolis. The kitchen has been updated with Wolf and Miele appliances, and the master suite has been enlarged.

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650 E Tachevah Dr, Palm Springs, CA

Price: $4,400,000
Modern mention: At almost 10,000 square feet, this Mid-Century Modern home is the largest of its kind in Palm Springs, according to the listing. The expansive space includes a living room with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, terrazzo floors, an indoor pool, a chef’s kitchen, and a guesthouse.

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153 Old Colony Rd, Hartsdale, NY

Price: $2,498,000
Modern mention: While the open layout is surrounded by windows, the thick trees provide privacy for this fully renovated 1963 gem. The suburban property is just 34 minutes to Grand Central Station by train.

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7224 Carrizo Dr, La Jolla, CA

Price: $3,475,000
Modern mention: Architecture and nature blend together in this 1951 design. Rock and concrete walls set off dramatic woodsy interior spaces. The peaceful setting amid sloping canyon walls emphasizes the natural environment. Surrounding lots are also available for purchase.

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2860 Paper Mill Rd, Huntingdon, PA

Price: $2,999,900
Modern mention: Renowned architect Richard Neutra designed Pitcairn House for the owner over 50 years ago. The result is a home that’s “85% windows,” according to the listing. Details include a renovated kitchen, a master suite, office, media room, separate in-law apartment, and indoor pool.

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