'Pan Am' Inspires Flight Back to 1960s Design
15 updated '60s homes offer lessons in craft, simplicity and style
Bud Dietrich, AIA
October 25, 2011
Houzz Contributor. My name is Bud Dietrich and I am an architect located in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. I am licensed to practice architecture in Illinois, Florida, New Jersey & Wisconsin. Since 1996 I have worked from my home office and provide full architectural services exclusively to the single family residential market. My passion is to transform my clients' houses into their homes. I strive to have the "new" home accommodate my clients' lives without fighting them at every junction. I look to add curb appeal to encourage a beautiful streetscape. And I design any addition to look and feel like it has always been there.
Our projects have won numerous design awards as well as having been featured on television (CBS News Sunday Morning, HGTV, CLTV, etc.), in magazines (Better Homes...
Houzz Contributor. My name is Bud Dietrich and I am an architect located in the Tampa... More
Okay, I admit it. We've been watching the new television series Pan Am. So what if the characters aren't as developed and deeply flawed and the story isn't isn't as gripping as Mad Men? If for no other reason, I watch the show because the sets and costumes are wonderful. Let's face it, the 1960s were one stylish decade. Any era that was ushered in by Jackie and Camelot had to be!
So let's bring back some of that '60s optimism, that can-do spirit and that willingness to do what is hard. This time around, let's keep an eye on the future and eschew the "throw away" for a sustainable approach.
So let's bring back some of that '60s optimism, that can-do spirit and that willingness to do what is hard. This time around, let's keep an eye on the future and eschew the "throw away" for a sustainable approach.
The early 1960s was the beginning of the Space Age and the Jet Set, and the best of our homes looked ready to take flight.
These homes were ready to hurtle us into space so we could float above it all.
With roofs that aimed for the sky and stars.
These homes were designed to be simple and straightforward while appearing impermanent and movable.
New manufacturing techniques continue to create more efficient and less-expensive glass so we can make whole walls of glass to eliminate the line between inside and outside.
Let's create rooms that are sandwiches of space between the two horizontal planes of roof and floor.
Let's create rooms that are light and bright while furniture and cabinetry is imagined as movable and impermanent.
Let's reintroduce the richness of wood finished walls that are like movable panels. And let's wash this panel with a skylight that illuminates a stair.
See more of this house
See more of this house
Let's use a circle and bold color to create a place to sit and chat.
Let's reintroduce the fun of Pop Art ...
... and the craft of Charles and Ray Eames.
Let's make our kitchens of a minimalist design. No carvings, no cherubs, no acanthus leaves. Just simple, straightforward and glossy surfaces.
Let's make a powder room like something on a Boeing 727.
Let's make a vanity that we can fold up like a suitcase and take with us.
More: 5 Inspiring Mid-Century Homes
More: 5 Inspiring Mid-Century Homes
Related Stories
Kitchen Makeovers
Kitchen of the Week: Beer, Shuffleboard and Pizza Bring the Fun
Entertaining features and a warm industrial style create a lively atmosphere in this revamped Craftsman bungalow space
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Bedrooms So Far in 2024
By Becky Harris
Feather your nest in style with inspiration from Houzz readers’ most-saved bedroom photos
Full Story
Working With Pros
Which Pro Should You Hire for Your Project?
Find out whether you need a contractor, an architect, an interior designer or another professional for the job
Full Story
Bathroom Makeovers
Bathroom of the Week: Accessibility and a Relaxing Vibe
By Becky Harris
A design-build firm uses universal design principles when expanding a family bath
Full Story
Housekeeping
How to Clean Your Windows and Keep Them Streak-Free
Try these tips, tricks and tools to wash your windows so they’re crystal clear
Full Story
Entryways
The 10 Most Popular Entries and Mudrooms So Far in 2024
Get ideas for storage setups, color schemes and special details from the most-saved entry photos so far this year
Full Story
Kitchen Design
30 Bold and Beautiful Range Backsplashes
Get ideas for eye-catching tile and stone backsplashes inside stove alcoves and behind cooktops
Full Story
Porches
Porch of the Week: Catching a Breeze in Austin, Texas
By Becky Harris
The new screened-in space has a beautiful fireplace as a focal point and includes lounging and dining spaces
Full Story
Landscape Design
Before and After: 4 Landscapes That Bring Resort Style Home
Stunning fire pits, luxurious pools, elegant entertaining zones and other relaxing spots give these yards vacation vibes
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Home Offices So Far in 2024
By Julie Sheer
Get inspired by these stylish workspaces where designers pair comfort with practicality
Full Story
Glad to see things coming back to full circle with new perspectives added!