Best North Shore Communities for Mid-Century Modern Homes
Chicago’s North Shore has more mid-century modern homes than many people think. Alongside the area’s Colonial and Tudor-style homes, there are split-level ranches, dramatic split-levels, glass-walled modern homes, and architect-designed houses built between the 1940s and the 1970s. These homes aren’t evenly spread across the North Shore, and buyers are more likely to find them in communities where postwar development, larger lots, and modernist architects made an impression.
Keep reading to learn which North Shore communities to watch when looking for Mid-Century modern home styles.
What Defines a Mid-Century Modern Home?
Mid-century modern homes often focus on clean lines, natural light, and a strong connection between inside and outside. Common features include flat rooflines, wide overhangs, large windows, open floor plans, exposed brick or wood, and fireplaces that stand out as design highlights. Not every ranch or split-level is truly mid-century modern. Some were built by architects while others just followed the styles of the time. Both can appeal to buyers who like layouts and relaxed indoor spaces.
Highland Park for Architectural Variety
Highland Park is a great place to start for buyers looking for homes designed by known architects. The community has work from Henry L. Newhouse II, Edward Dart, J. Marion Gutnayer, Greta Lederer, and other architects linked to North Shore modernism. Homes here range from ranches and split-levels to big glass-and-stone houses on wooded or lakefront lots. Highland Park’s architectural surveys list more than two dozen homes Newhouse designed from the 1940s through the 1960s.
Why Look for Mid-Century Homes in Glencoe?
Glencoe has a smaller but still meaningful number of modernist homes. Strawberry Hill, developed by Greta Lederer in the 1950s, includes split-level homes with unique postwar interiors. Lederer also built in Glencoe’s Skokie Ridge and Skokie Heights areas. The village also has custom homes like the Edward Dart-designed Ancel House, built in 1961. Inventory is limited, so buyers may need to wait for the home instead of choosing from many options at once.
Is Deerfield a Good Option for More Traditional Mid-Century Styles?
Yes. Deerfield is a place to look for postwar ranches, split-levels, and contemporary homes, not just rare architectural pieces. A state historic survey found ranches and split-levels from the 1960s and 1970s, along with contemporary homes with flat or offset-gable roofs. Older housing from the 1950s and 1960s is especially common east of Waukegan Avenue and around Deerfield Road. Buyers looking for picture windows, brick-and-wood exteriors, and flexible split-level layouts may find more options here.
Northbrook for Ranches and Split-Levels
Northbrook has a wide mix of mid-century-era homes, including brick ranches, split-levels, and a few custom modern homes. This community may be a fit for buyers who like the shape and layout of the time but don’t need a home designed by a famous architect. Lot sizes and conditions vary a lot. Some homes are close to their original design, while others have been changed with additions or renovations. Buyers should look at each property on its own rather than relying only on the construction year.
“A great mid-century home should still feel connected to its original design, even if the major systems have been updated. Buyers should look beyond the cosmetic finishes and evaluate the roof, windows, drainage, masonry, and renovation history. The strongest North Shore properties preserve their architectural character without asking the next owner to inherit decades of deferred maintenance.”–Jake McClure, Team Leader/Real Estate Broker
What Should Buyers Inspect in a Mid-Century Home?
Original features often make mid-century homes special. They can also need expert attention. Buyers should check low-slope roofs, large windows, masonry, radiant heating, electrical panels, plumbing, insulation, and drainage. They should also look at any changes made over the years. Ask whether the original architectural plans are available, and see whether renovations kept important materials. For homes with landmark status, review any rules about exterior changes. A contractor who knows homes can help separate valuable original details from systems that need to be replaced.
Finding the Right Modern Home on the North Shore
Highland Park and Glencoe offer homes with documented architecture, while Riverwoods offers modern homes in wooded areas. Deerfield and Northbrook give chances to find practical ranches and split-levels. A flexible search across communities gives buyers the best shot at finding a home with real character and lasting value. Contact the professionals at Burling Square Group for more information about relocating to the North Shore’s top Mid-Century modern homes.
Asked Questions About North Shore Mid-Century Homes?
Q: Are mid-century modern homes common on the North Shore?
A: They can be found throughout the area. They are not as common as traditional styles. Highland Park, Glencoe, Riverwoods, Deerfield, and Northbrook offer some of the best chances, though suitable homes may also appear in nearby communities.
Q: Do original mid-century homes cost more?
A: Price depends on architectural history, condition, location, lot size, and how well renovations were done. A home designed by a known architect may sell for more. A home that has been poorly maintained can still need a lot of money to fix.
Q: Should buyers preserve original features?
A: Features like terrazzo floors, exposed brick, wood ceilings, built-ins, and period lighting help define the home’s style. Preservation doesn’t mean avoiding updates. Improvements to mechanics, safety, and efficiency can often be done without losing the details that make the home special.
Q: How can buyers find these homes before they sell?
A: Search terms alone may miss the listings because agents describe the style in different ways. Buyers should look for ranches, contemporaries, split-levels, and architect-designed homes while working with an agent who can spot century-old features in photos and property records.