There’s nothing quite like an MCM exterior with a jazzy door or breeze block–or both! The icing on the architectural cake, a vibrant color on an MCM door or house numbers with a modern flair are enough to stop passersby in their tracks.
We’ve collected some favorite exterior doors and beyond, many of which can be found in Atomic Ranch: Remodeled Marvels by our very own Jickie Torres. In it, you’ll find a chapter devoted to curb appeal, including MCM doors, as well as a chapter on outdoor spaces.
Orange doors are just the beginning here! Starburst doorknob mounts, a tripod plant stand with a brass planter that ties in perfectly with the door accents are the mid mod cherries on top.
Architectural elements such as the brick and large windows certainly draw the eye, but other details are achievable no matter what kind of house you live in. The turquoise door and the sculptural planter add an irresistible splash of mid mod appeal.
This MCM exterior and door extends the lines of the house beautifully, allowing sunlight to angle through parallel slats. The play of light and shade is a win-win to take some of the edge off the heat and to allow the barrel cacti and palms to get the light they need. And, of course, there’s the color contrast with the black siding, white trim and jazzy orange door.
White reflects the desert sun, and details like the alternating directions of cinder block and the geometric shadows its casts make this already-stunning accordion roof home exceptionally eye-catching. Of course, the turquoise door and bullet planter (not to mention the Malm flue visible through the clerestory window) brings it all together!
Architecture is the star in this Wendell Lovett home, but the primary blue and red on the exterior certainly adds to the modernist vibes.
Olive green painted breeze block, a walkway that extends the lines of the house, a pop of orange on the doorframe, and cursive house numbers—we may not ever want to go inside there’s so much to admire from the outside!
Texture does wonders! The etched pattern on the exterior walls add visual interest as well as the xeriscape desert landscaping.
It doesn’t need to have breeze block, succulents and palm trees to be MCM! This mountain A-frame’s dark exterior, sleek profile and the floral black and white doors make a design statement as crisp and clean as the pine-scented air that surrounds it.
This Eichler has loads of curb appeal with unique touches like the rust-colored fence and rectangular planter in the entryway. The orange door contrasts nicely with the cool gray siding.
Breeze blocks are one gorgeous way to provide aesthetically pleasing shade and still allow airflow. Vertical slats are another way to accomplish a very similar purpose and also create a bit of privacy.
Starbursts over the eyes—I mean, i’s? Yes, please! Little touches like this can make your home memorable and inviting even from the sidewalk!
For more Mid Century Modern inspired backyards, from outdoor living rooms, patios, pools, landscaping and more, don’t miss Atomic Ranch’s book Remodeled Marvels. In it, Atomic Ranch’s very own Jickie Torres takes you through the process, room by room, including the exterior and outdoor spaces. Find many of these fantastic MCM exteriors and doors as well as backyards and more besides for inspiration. Read hard-won advice from seasoned MCM homeowners, designers, landscape architects and more. Get your copy or buy one for a friend at our site or on Amazon.
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