Mid-century modern homes have their iconic outposts around the United States, most notably in Palm Springs, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Chicago, but hidden gems can be found nearly everywhere, including Kansas City. The metropolitan area actually has quite an impressive collection of both residential and commercial mid-century modern buildings, particularly in Prairie Village, Overland Park, and Leawood.
As a super fan of mid-century modern design herself, Ashley Kendrick has restored and sold dozens of these mid-mod homes. Her secret? Watching the market and spotting the hidden diamonds in the rough when they pop up. Keep reading for a closer look at some of Ashley’s favorite local mid-century modern finds.
One of David Runnels’ Revere House designs, circa 1952, one of 14 built in Prairie Village and featured in Life magazine. PC: Docomomo US
A Cozy Mid-Century Classic in Lea Manor
When Ashley and her wife Sarah, a home designer, first discovered this mid-century modern gem in South Kansas City’s Lea Manor neighborhood, it was in pretty rough condition. Years of neglect and deterioration had taken a toll on the property, but the two could still see some of the home’s original charm. Despite its rough condition, the soaring vaulted wood ceilings, large floor-to-ceiling windows, and the striking large slab mixed-marble flooring were evidence that this home had plenty of character worth preserving.
Mid-century modern home in Lea Manor, Kansas City
Their plan for the renovation was to make the home feel more open and inviting without sacrificing any of its mid-century modern elements. First, they knocked down a wall that separated the living and dining areas from the kitchen, creating an open and flowing layout that fully connected the two spaces and spotlighted the original stone fireplace. The kitchen was updated with warm natural wood cabinetry and contemporary finishes to honor the home’s modern style. The hallway and primary suite were then reconfigured to make more efficient use of the available space, including the addition of a handy same-floor laundry room.
And finally, to maximize all the natural light coming in through the large windows and glass doors overlooking the backyard, the main living spaces were painted a crisp white. The result: a fresh and welcoming mid-century modern home that seamlessly blends its original character with thoughtful modern updates.
Click here to read more about this Lea Manor mid-century modern renovation.
An Overland Park Mid-Century Ranch Rescue
This overlooked Overland Park mid-mod home was another one past its prime when Ashley and Sarah came upon it, but that was part of the appeal. Despite the obvious years of wear and tear, Ashley immediately spotted (and appreciated!) the appeal of the original floor plan and the classic architectural details throughout.
Preserving the home’s distinctive mid-century modern features was key to the renovation. The existing, expansive windows and sliding glass doors allowed natural light in, while the original wood paneling, wide oak flooring, and brick fireplace were in keeping with the home’s overall clean lines. The original kitchen, full of vintage quirks but in desperate need of a refresh, was opened up. A double oven and pass-through window that once divided the kitchen from the adjacent dining area were removed, eliminating the visual barrier and creating one flowing space. The kitchen remodel was polished off with custom cabinetry and a distinctive kit kat tile backsplash up to the ceiling.
Mid-century modern home in Overland Park
Ashley and Sarah continued that careful approach when updating the rest of the home, from the primary suite’s signature clerestory windows and vaulted ceiling to the sleek multi-material bathrooms and minimalistic, monochrome outdoor living spaces. The completed renovation breathed fresh new life into a once overlooked mid-century modern gem.
Click here to read more about this Overland Park mid-century modern rescue.
A Mid-Mod Wonder in Shawnee
This architectural beauty was not one of Ashley and Sarah’s renovation projects. Instead, Ashley served as the seller’s agent for this unique property in Shawnee, Kansas. Designed in 1975 by the Lawrence, Kansas, architectural firm Design-Build Architects and meticulously maintained by its original owner, the eye-catching facade combines stained wood, textured concrete, and the dramatic two-story glass wall, which, altogether, makes a dramatic first impression. When Ashley first visited the home to discuss taking the listing, it was love at first sight!
The home’s dynamic first impression continues inside. The scale and architectural details upon entering include a two-story atrium, soaring ceilings, open living spaces, and a dramatic glass curtain wall that brings the surrounding wilderness right into the home. Down a spiral staircase, past the retro conversation pit around the look-through split concrete fireplace, is a raised kitchen with custom oiled walnut cabinetry and classic mid-century built-ins, including a pocket desk.
Mid-century modern home in Shawnee
Dramatic enough, but a final bit of wow-factor comes from the library, with floor-to-ceiling custom shelving – with a rolling ladder, of course – large angled skylights, and the look-through fireplace as the room’s centerpiece.
Click here to read more about this Shawnee mid-century modern gem.
Mid-Century Modern Then and Now
Whether restoring a neglected mid-century modern ranch or showcasing a beautifully intact survivor, Ashley knows exactly what makes these homes special. Kansas City may not have the clusters of mid-mod dazzlers other cities are known for, but for those who know where to look, there are plenty of local modernist gems hiding in plain sight.
If you are looking to buy or sell your own mid-century modern home here in Kansas City, there’s no better realtor for the job than Ashley! Her expertise and passion for these properties make her an expert at recognizing the potential in these homes and showcasing their unique architectural character and charm.
