History of the Modern Style

Modernism in art, architecture and design is not just another style—it presents a new way of thinking. In the early 20th Century, there was a lively constructive rebellion against traditional European styles in the visual arts. Exploration and experimentation greatly expanded our horizons and sensibilities. New goals and values, together with new materials and technologies and different ways of using older ones, led to art forms uniquely expressive of this age. Architects and urban planners became increasingly aware of the visual arts to the qualities of modern living. Structures became more than a shell to protect their contents and became expressions of our search for identity during a period of rapid industrialization, social change and scientific advancement. Modernist architects attempted to apply scientific and analytical methods to design by emphasizing function over ornament. The idea of space as opposed to mass was used as an inspiration for design and led to innovative choices of materials such as reinforced concrete, steel, aluminum and glass to free up the structure. By the 1950s, modernism became widely established in the United States and marked the high point of American civilization.

What is the Modern Style?

Modern style homes are are typified by one or more of the following features:

• Strong horizontal lines with flat or low-pitch roof
• Open interiors with vaulted or beam cielings
• Floor plans shaped like "H, U, T or L" that partially enclose outdoor space
• Ample use of glass in clerestory windows, sliding doors, and skylights
• An acknowledgment of the increasing importance of the automobile in suburban life with garages and carports becoming important design elements

The History of Modernism in Denver

Colorado provides an ideal setting for modern architecture. Our sun-drenched climate, big sky, and wide open spaces are conducive to large windows and indoor-outdoor living. Many of Denver's modern homes have their roots in the work of Frank Lloyd Wright and California architects/builders Joseph Eichler and Cliff May - hence the term "California Contemporary" for many of these homes. Local architects such as Victor Hornbein, Joseph and Louise Marlow, William Muchow, Eugene Sternberg, Gerry Dion, and others brought adaptations of these modern architectural trends to Denver. With the help of developers like Edward Hawkins and Brad Wolff, many homes in Denver were built in the modern style.

The most documented example of modernist residential architecture in Denver is Arapahoe Acres, a remarkable neighborhood in Englewood developed by Edward Hawkins. Here, Hawkins partnered with architects Sternberg and Dion between 1949 and 1957 to build 124 modernist homes. The general contractor for Arapahoe Acres, Clyde Mannon later developed another similar neighborhood in Littleton called Arapaho Hills with architect Bruce Sutherland.

However, numerous modern style homes are scattered in pockets across many Denver neighborhoods including Montclair, Mayfair, Hilltop, Virginia Village, Bonnie Brae, Cherry Creek, and Harvey Park. Suburban communities such as Westminster, Littleton, Lakewood, and Evergreen also have examples of modern homes. Follow this tour link for a driving tour of several modern neighborhoods.