Mid-Century Modernism with Monique

Monique wraps up her incredible journey with the podcast in a heartfelt farewell episode, celebrating the amazing guests who’ve joined her along the way. From designers and architects to homeowners, historians, and preservationists, this special episode features unforgettable clips that showcase the passion and stories behind mid-century modernism. Tune in for one last inspiring celebration of the people and ideas that made ‘Mid-century Modernism with Monique’ so special! “When you meet another modernist, you find yourself putting aside anything else you might disagree on, and you’re focusing on that bond of ‘we love these homes’” - Monique   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty (http://www.modernhomesrealty.com/) to learn more.   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:   Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique 

Monique sits down with Matt Johnson, owner of a rare two-story Eichler, about the ins and outs of mid-century modern living. From renovation do’s and don’ts to sourcing the perfect light fixtures and furniture, Matt shares his tips for preserving the Eichler style. He also reflects on what makes his unique home so special and the importance of the Eichler community. It’s an engaging conversation for Eichler fans and design enthusiasts alike!   “[I decided to put virtually no art up in my home because] I believe that the architecture of the home and the design of the home is the art itself.” - Matt Johnson   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty  http://www.modernhomesrealty.com/ to learn more.   ----- Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Practical Props: https://practicalprops.com   Abril Roofing: https://www.abrilroofing.com/   Joybird: https://joybird.com/   Sterling Custom Upholstery Co.: https://www.sterlingcustomupholstery.com/  

Monique chats with Chuck Henderson, former president of the Frank Lloyd Wright Conservancy and previous owner of the iconic Walker House in Carmel, the only Frank Lloyd Wright home on the ocean. Chuck shares his experience restoring the house, offers advice to new Frank Lloyd Wright homeowners, and reflects on memorable moments from his time at the Conservancy and Taliesin. Don’t miss hearing about his favorite Wright designs and what being part of this Mid Century Modern architectural world has meant to him.   “You can say that Frank Lloyd Wright’s work is a world heritage site like the Great Pyramids in Egypt or the Taj Mahal in India… so his place is ensconced now with worlds greats” - Chuck Henderson -----   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty (www.modernhomesrealty.com) to learn more.   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:   Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Savewright.org  

Monique is joined by the talented Mark English, principal of Mark English Architects in San Francisco. They dive into his journey into modernism, from his love of Inca and Mayan architecture to founding his award-winning firm. Mark shares the fun behind designing his favorite projects, like the Atherton and Tōrō houses, and gives his take on sustainable architecture. Plus, he shares with Monique his opinion on mid-century modern versus modern architecture, making for an insightful and engaging conversation.   “You either have the calling or you don’t… architecture isn’t just a job or a profession. I have the calling... I had my first house built when I was 19” - Mark English   ----- If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty www.modernhomesrealty.com to learn more. Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique     Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   The Architects' Take - www.thearchitectstake.com   Mark English Architects - www.markenglisharchitects.com  

Monique is joined by the brilliant Bob Swatt, architect and partner at Swatt + Partners. They dive into his love for mid-century modern design, the powerful work of Beverly Thorne, and the inspiration behind his iconic Tea Cup homes. Bob also reveals his connection to Rudolf Schindler, shares fun stories from his career, and talks about celebrating 50 years of his firm with a brand new book.   “If a building looks like […] nothing else could have been there except for that building, you’ve hit the nail on the head” - Bob   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty (www.modernhomesrealty.com) to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com   Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Swatt + Partners (www.swattpartners.com)   Book: Swatt Architects: Livable Modern (House Design)   Book: Insideout: New Modern West Coast Architecture      

Monique is joined by Cord Struckmann and Alfonso Cordon, the owners of Case Study House #26. They share their restoration journey of this Beverly D. Thorne-designed gem and dive into the revolutionary Case Study House program, which promoted innovative home designs. Discover how they stumbled upon this mid-century treasure and their plans to celebrate what would have been Beverly Thorne's 100th birthday.   “Living in a house like this one makes you more appreciative of architecture and creates a responsibility on you for trying to preserve it for others” - Alfonso   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty (www.modernhomesrealty.com) to learn more.   ----- Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Case Study House #26 - www.casestudyhouse.com     Docomomo - https://www.docomomo-noca.org

Monique chats with Jonathan Braun about his father, Ernest Braun's, incredible work and legacy. They dive into Ernest's inspiration from Eichler Homes, his journey into photography, and vibrant life through the lens. Jonathan shares fond memories, including time in the darkroom, his father's adventures with combat photography, and the seven photography books he created.   “I just found it incredibly fascinating to watch this, to be in the dark, and under the glow of the safe light, seeing these images appearing” - Jonathan Braun   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Modern Homes Reality: http://www.modernhomesrealty.com/   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   www.ernestbraun.com    

Monique chats with architect Dominic Sarica, who shares his love for living in a Roger Lee home, its unique design, and what drew him to it. Hear about raising his family in this architectural gem, the distinctive style of Roger Lee, and how Dominic tackled design challenges to preserve its integrity.   “All I could see was this horizontal line that peaked out from the landscape and I said, ‘I know what’s back there’” - Dominic Sarica   -----   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Modern Homes Realty: http://www.modernhomesrealty.com/   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Dominic Sarica - Interior Architects: www.interiorarchitects.com

Monique welcomes Allan Green to the show to discuss his father's legacy, his work with Frank Lloyd Wright, and his journey in creating the stunning coffee table book, "Aaron Green Organic Architecture: Beyond Frank Lloyd Wright." They talk about his father's unique approach to design, his distinctive style of collaborating with clients, and the charming story of how his parents met with a handmade sweater. Tune in for an intimate look at one of the pioneers of organic architecture and the process of bringing his story to life in print.   “I didn’t want to put limitations on the design because the point is to let him [Aaron Green] do something interesting” - Allan Green   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   Let's Connect!   Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Aaron Green Organic Architecture: Beyond Frank Lloyd Wright - Allan Green

Monique welcomes Chad Dewitt, an accomplished architectural designer and the creative force behind Framestudio, to the show. With features in Dwell, California Home and Design, and many more, Chad shares what inspires him about mid-century modern homes, delves into his personal restoration projects (including an interesting take on why Eichlers aren't his favorite), and invites listeners into his world of auction alerts. Join the conversation with a true expert in the field, as they dive into the world of architecture, design, and restoration.   “It instilled in me a dislike of conformity, I like unique, I like one-offs” - Chad   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Curbed Magazine - Chad Dewitt   Frame Studio: https://www.framestud.io/   Instagram: dewitt_20th_century  

Monique welcomes to the show esteemed architect Bruce Avico, a living encyclopedia of mid-century modern history. In this episode, Bruce unveils his journey, from joining the world of Buff and Hensman to pivotal moments that shaped his career.    Join the conversation as they explore the backgrounds of Conrad Buff, Don Hensman, and the influential Calvin Straub, while Bruce discusses the Case Study Houses, reflects on the impact of the 1973/74 energy crisis on architecture, and expresses his deep appreciation for mid-century modernism. Listen in as Bruce reveals his favorite architects and imparts his hopes for the enduring legacy of homes from this timeless era.   “[Why I like mid-century modernism is] kind of like in the renaissance era, there was the high renaissance and I think in modern times, that’s where this landed” - Bruce   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com    Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Modern California Houses - 1962 Esther McCoy    Beautiful Homes and Gardens In California - January 1, 1965 by Herbert Weisskamp   Buff and Hensmen - By Don Hensmen & James Steele   Calvin Straub   Ralph Rapson's - Greenbelt House

Monique welcomes Joanne Koch, the founder and principal of Koch Architects, renowned for her work in organic architecture and mid-century modern restoration. In this episode, you'll delve into Joanne's soulful approach to organic architecture, inspired by the mass housing design and vision of the post-war era.   Explore the concept of 'rustic modern' from Joanne's unique perspective, as she shares her personal experiences at Sea Ranch and her work with architectural treasures designed by  luminaries like William Turnbull, John Hants Oswald, and Fred Langhorst.   Join them for an engaging conversation about how spaces influence life and the legacy we leave for the next generation.   “[We ask ourselves] How do we... see [the houses'] new opportunities for now… while keeping the original spirit of them.” - Joanne   -----   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com   Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Koch Architects - www.kocharchitects.com  

Monique's producer, Jacki Mercer, switches roles and interviews Monique about her journey into the world of mid-century modern design. Monique reveals her personal connection to the style, shares the joys of living in a mid-century modern home, and highlights the features that make these homes irresistible to potential buyers.   She dives into the inspiration behind her business, along with how she secured the rights to Eichler floor plans, what makes an Eichler home truly original, and her favorite designers and architects. Tune in to catch a sneak peek of her upcoming projects, and whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of mid-century modern design, you're bound to be inspired.   “I like living in a story, living in a work of art, something that has this unique history, and something that will be here when you’re gone.” - Monique   -----   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Email:  monique@modernhomesrealty.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Eichler Home Tour   Modern Homes Reality   Youtube Channel - Monique Anton    

Monique invites you to a fun episode recorded at the Eichler Home Tour VIP party just outside the San Mateo Highlands. She interviews eight passionate Eichler home owners and enthusiasts, who share their love for these iconic mid-century modern homes. They explain what makes Eichler homes special and you'll hear from the organizers who've made this event a reality.   Not only is the Eichler Home tour an exciting exploration of 12 Eichler homes, but it's also for a good cause. All proceeds from the tour benefit the Highlands Elementary School PTA, making it an event that brings modernists from across the country together and gives back to the community. Enjoy this unique peek into the world of Eichler homes and the community of people that cherish them.   “We all come together and celebrate the classic Joe Eichler lifestyle of high style, low budget, and a truth to its’ historic preservation” - Drury   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com   Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Eichler Home Tour - www.eichlerhometour.com

Monique welcomes her friend, Hannah Simonson, to the show—an architectural historian and cultural resources planner at Page and Turnbull in San Francisco. As the current president of Docomomo US Northern California Chapter, Hannah shares her history with Docomomo and her fascination with the Diamond Heights community.   This episode also offers practical insights into saving historical modern sites and highlights the value of preserving existing buildings. Tune in to learn how to join the Docomomo community and discover some of Hannah's favorite modern sites. Join us for this engaging conversation about preserving the legacy of modern architecture.   “Part of Docomomo’s mission is really about getting information and education out there” - Hannah   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Modern Diamond Heights   Docomomo USA   Docomomo NOCA   Insta @docomomonoca  

Monique welcomes her friend Danny Heller to the show, a globally exhibited artist renowned for his mid-century modern artistry. From his roots in Los Angeles' suburbs to prestigious features in publications like Architectural Digest Spain and California Home and Design, he shares the stories behind his vibrant paintings that capture the essence of the era's architecture. Tune in to hear about his artistic evolution, his unique perspective on iconic structures like the Chemosphere, as well as details about his upcoming New York show and the inspiring message he aims to convey through his art.   “[In] my process, I get to actually visit these places, and that’s reward enough, and then I get to spend time painting them, which is icing on the cake” - Danny   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   YouTube Channel: Monique Anton   Danny Heller Art

Monique invites Karen Nepacena, the visionary behind DestinationEichler.com, to the show. From viral blogs on Eichler restoration to features in Dwell, HGTV, and Atomic Ranch, Karen has left an indelible mark as a designer. Join their conversation as Karen delves into the challenges of Eichler restoration, her newly completed book "Midcentury Modern Style," and her experience featured on Cabin Chronicles. Discover what ignited Karen's passion for mid-century modern style, thrift store treasures she simply can't resist, and the behind-the-scenes scoop on her HGTV journey.   “[The reason Eichlers are special] are because our little 1600 sq ft home was built by someone who built world renowned buildings and then he also put his stamp on these modest houses for families like ours” - Karen   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   ----- Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:    Destination Eichler   Midcentury Modern Style: An Approachable Guide to Inspired Rooms   Cabin Chronicles

Monique chats with the brilliant Alan Hess, an architect, historian, and author of 21 books on Modernism. In this episode, they explore Frank Lloyd Wright's impact on modern architecture, along with the intriguing world of "Googie" design and the way they were able to bring ordinary life into the realm of these mid-century modern designs.    They also touch on architectural legends like Oscar Niemeyer, Alan Bray, Jack Hillmer, and Donald Wexler, along with Alan Hess's preservation efforts, including a surprising McDonald's Drive Thru. Tune in as he shares about his book ‘Forgotten Modern’ and the passion for preserving these iconic spaces that define midcentury modernism.   “For the price of a hamburger and a piece of pie, the average person at a Googy coffee shop could participate in that modern life” - Alan   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Googie Modern: Architectural Drawings of Armet Davis Newlove    Googie: Fifties Coffee Shop Architecture   Alan Hess Website: www.alanhess.net

Monique sits down with Vince Bravo, an art and furniture collector, artist, and expert on Alexander Girard, with an impressive 30-years experience in vintage furnishings and mid-century decorative arts. Tune in as he shares the origins of his art collection, his restoration of mid-century furniture, and the stories of the unique pieces he's acquired along the way, including an Alexander Girard-designed tortilla wrapper. Join them as they explore the treasures of timeless classics and delve into the fascinating history behind Alexander Girard's iconic designs.    “I started buying things like Troll dolls and Zippo lighters and Levi jeans… that was really what got me into the business” - Vince   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   ----- Let's Connect!    Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    -----   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   Vince Bravo Website   Instagram @mrvincebravo   Gitman Vintage   The Girard Studio   Book: Todd Oldham - Alexander Girard  

Monique welcomes Matt Bliss, founder of Modern Christmas Trees, on today's episode. Matt shares the story of how his grandfather's 1966 modern Christmas tree design inspired him to start the business, along with the story of his appearance on Shark Tank and how he fell in love with mid-century modern design.    From exclusive photoshoots in iconic mid-century modern homes, to being a beloved tradition in many families, his trees have charmed modernists and non-modernists alike. Plus, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of the special "Christmas in July" promo happening right now on their website!   “That’s the thing, the idea of minimalism, which is a part of mid-century modern design. How do you make things user friendly and as easy as humanly possible... and we spent a lot of time figuring out how to achieve all that” - Matt   If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to Modern Homes Realty to learn more.   -----   Let's Connect!    - Website: www.mcmwithmonique.com     Follow Me On:    Instagram: @mcmwithmonique   Facebook: facebook.com/mcmwithmonique    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:   - Modern Christmas Trees