Is 1960s Homes the Ultimate Home Buying Resource for ABR®

If you are in the market for a home and have a love for the charm and character of the 1960s era, then houses built in the 1960s may be the ultimate resource for you. These homes have unique features and characteristics that are not commonly found in modern homes. From the exterior design to the interior details, 1960s homes offer a glimpse into a bygone era. In this article, we will explore the exterior and interior features of 1960s homes, the decorative trends of the time, the design styles that influenced these homes, the common appliances found in 1960s houses, and the concerns that modern buyers may have when purchasing a home from this era.

Exterior Features of 1960s Homes

When it comes to houses built in the 1960s, there are several common exterior features that you can expect to find. These include:

Ranch Houses

The ranch house, also known as the “rambler,” was a popular architectural style during the 1960s. These single-story homes typically had a long, low profile with a spacious layout. They were designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

Cape Cod Style Homes

The Cape Cod style was another popular choice for homeowners in the 1960s. These homes were characterized by their steep roofs, central chimneys, and symmetrical layout. The exterior was typically clad in wood siding, giving the homes a classic and timeless look.

Mediterranean Split-Level Houses

Mediterranean split-level houses were also prevalent during the 1960s. These homes featured multiple levels, with each level slightly elevated from the previous one. They often had stucco exteriors, tile roofs, and wrought iron details, giving them a Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic.

Screened Porches

One common feature of 1960s homes was the screened porch. These were outdoor living spaces that were enclosed with screens to keep out bugs and provide a comfortable space for relaxation and entertaining.

Attached Garages

Another characteristic of 1960s homes was the presence of attached garages. This allowed homeowners the convenience of parking their cars close to their homes without having to walk long distances or brave the elements.

These are just a few examples of the exterior features that you can expect to find in houses built in the 1960s. Each style has its own unique charm and appeal, making them a desirable choice for homebuyers looking to own a piece of history.

Interior Characteristics of 1960s Houses

Now let’s take a closer look at the interior characteristics commonly found in homes built during the 1960s:

Two or More Bedrooms

Most 1960s houses were designed with two or more bedrooms, making them suitable for growing families or individuals who needed extra space for guests or a home office.

Formica Countertops

Formica countertops were a popular choice in 1960s homes. These laminate countertops offered a durable and affordable option for homeowners. They came in a variety of colors and patterns, adding a pop of retro charm to the kitchen.

Forced Air Heating

Forced air heating systems were a common feature in 1960s homes. This type of heating system uses a furnace to heat the air and then distributes the warm air through ducts and vents throughout the house. This provided a more efficient and comfortable heating solution compared to older heating systems.

Formica, Walnut, Oak, or Cherry Cabinets

When it comes to kitchen cabinets, 1960s homes often featured cabinets made from materials such as Formica, walnut, oak, or cherry. These materials were chosen for their durability and natural beauty, adding a touch of elegance to the kitchen.

Lead Paint/Asbestos in Construction Materials

It is important to note that houses built in the 1960s may contain construction materials that have since been found to be hazardous. Lead-based paints and asbestos were commonly used during this time period. It is essential for modern buyers to be aware of these potential risks and take appropriate measures to address them.

These are just a few examples of the interior characteristics commonly found in 1960s homes. Each home may have its own unique features and details that reflect the style and preferences of the original homeowners.

Decorative Trends in 1960s Homes

The 1960s were a time of experimentation and creativity when it came to home decor. Here are some of the decorative trends that were popular during this era:

Nylon Carpeting

Nylon carpeting was a popular flooring choice in 1960s homes. This synthetic material offered durability and stain resistance, making it a practical option for busy households. It came in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing homeowners to customize their space to their liking.

Vinyl-Coated Wallpaper

Another common decorative trend in 1960s homes was vinyl-coated wallpaper. This type of wallpaper was easy to clean and offered a wide range of designs and patterns. It was a cost-effective way to add texture and visual interest to a room.

Pole Lamps

Pole lamps, also known as floor lamps, were a popular lighting choice in 1960s homes. These lamps consisted of a tall pole with multiple light fixtures attached. They provided both ambient and task lighting and were often adorned with decorative shades or globes.

Lava Lamps

No discussion of 1960s decor would be complete without mentioning lava lamps. These iconic lamps featured colorful, swirling blobs of wax that floated and moved when the lamp was turned on. Lava lamps were considered a symbol of the psychedelic and free-spirited culture of the era.

Danish Modern Furniture

The 1960s saw the rise in popularity of Danish modern furniture. This style was characterized by clean lines, sleek designs, and a focus on functionality. Danish modern furniture was often made with teak or rosewood and combined form with function in a harmonious way.

Bold Black-and-White Patterns

Black-and-white patterns were all the rage in 1960s homes. From geometric prints to bold stripes, homeowners embraced the contrast and drama that these patterns brought to their decor. Black-and-white was a popular color scheme for everything from wallpaper to upholstery.

These are just a few examples of the decorative trends that defined the look and feel of 1960s homes. Each trend added its own unique touch to the overall aesthetic of the house, creating a space that was both stylish and reflective of the times.

Design Styles Influencing 1960s Homes

The design styles of the 1960s were influenced by various themes and aesthetics. Here are some of the design styles that had a significant impact on homes built during this time:

Colonial

The Colonial design style was a popular choice for homeowners in the 1960s. This style drew inspiration from the traditional architecture of the American colonies, with details such as symmetrical facades, columned entryways, and clapboard or brick exteriors.

Venetian

The Venetian design style brought a touch of Italian elegance to 1960s homes. This style was characterized by arched windows and doorways, ornate moldings, decorative wrought iron details, and colorful tile work. It added a touch of luxury and opulence to the interior and exterior of the home.

Provincial

The Provincial design style, also known as French Provincial or French Country, was another popular choice in 1960s homes. This style drew inspiration from the French countryside, with its rustic and charming aesthetic. It featured elements such as whitewashed wood, distressed finishes, and delicate floral patterns.

Riviera

The Riviera design style brought the essence of the Mediterranean coast to 1960s homes. This style was characterized by bright colors, terracotta tiles, wrought iron details, and lush greenery. It created a feeling of relaxation and vacation, even in landlocked areas.

Mediterranean

The Mediterranean design style, as the name suggests, drew inspiration from the architecture and design of the Mediterranean region. This style featured elements such as stucco exteriors, tile roofs, arched windows, and vibrant colors. It added a touch of warmth and richness to 1960s homes.

These design styles influenced the overall look and feel of 1960s homes, creating spaces that were both stylish and influenced by global aesthetics. Each style brought its own unique charm and character to the homes of this era.

Common Appliances in 1960s Houses

When it comes to appliances, 1960s homes were equipped with some of the latest innovations of the time. Here are some common appliances that you can expect to find in houses built during this period:

Modern Kitchens

Kitchens in 1960s homes were equipped with modern appliances such as electric stoves, refrigerators, and dishwashers. These appliances made cooking and cleaning more convenient for homeowners, allowing them to spend less time on household chores and more time with their families.

Black-and-White Televisions

The 1960s marked the rise of television as a staple in American households. Black-and-white televisions were the norm during this time, and families would gather around the TV to watch their favorite shows and news programs.

Stereos

Music played a significant role in the lives of many people during the 1960s, and stereo systems were a popular addition to homes. These systems allowed homeowners to enjoy high-quality sound and listen to their favorite records or radio stations.

Electric Skillets

Electric skillets were a convenient and versatile appliance that was commonly found in 1960s kitchens. These skillets allowed homeowners to prepare a variety of meals without the need for a traditional stovetop.

Upright Vacuum Cleaners

Upright vacuum cleaners were a common sight in 1960s homes. These appliances made it easier for homeowners to keep their homes clean and free of dust and dirt.

These are just a few examples of the appliances that were commonly found in 1960s homes. Each appliance added to the convenience and comfort of the home, making everyday tasks easier and more efficient.

Concerns for Modern Buyers of 1960s Homes

While houses built in the 1960s have their charm and character, there are also some concerns that modern buyers should be aware of when considering purchasing a home from this era:

Electrical Service

The electrical service in older homes may not be up to modern standards. It is essential to have the electrical system inspected by a professional to ensure that it can handle the electrical load of modern appliances and technology.

Steel Water Pipes

Some 1960s homes may still have steel water pipes. These pipes are prone to corrosion and may need to be replaced with modern materials to avoid issues with water quality and pressure.

Lead-Based Paints

As mentioned earlier, lead-based paints were commonly used in the 1960s. It is important to be aware of the presence of lead-based paint in older homes and take appropriate measures to address it, especially if you have young children who may be at risk of lead poisoning.

Asbestos Products

Asbestos was commonly used in various construction materials during the 1960s. It is crucial to identify and address any asbestos-containing materials to ensure a safe living environment.

By addressing these concerns and taking the necessary steps to upgrade or remove outdated or hazardous materials, modern buyers can enjoy the unique charm and character of a 1960s home while ensuring the safety and comfort of their family.

Houses built in the 1960s offer a wealth of charm, character, and unique features that are not commonly found in modern homes. From the exterior design to the interior details, these homes provide a glimpse into a bygone era. The exterior features of 1960s homes include ranch houses, Cape Cod style homes, Mediterranean split-level houses, screened porches, and attached garages, among others. The interior characteristics often consist of two or more bedrooms, Formica countertops, forced air heating, and cabinets made from materials such as Formica, walnut, oak, or cherry. Decorative trends in 1960s homes encompass nylon carpeting, vinyl-coated wallpaper, pole lamps, Lava Lamps, Danish modern furniture, and bold black-and-white patterns. The design styles influencing 1960s homes include Colonial, Venetian, Provincial, Riviera, and Mediterranean themes. Common appliances in 1960s houses include modern kitchens, black-and-white televisions, stereos, electric skillets, and upright vacuum cleaners. However, modern buyers of 1960s homes need to be aware of concerns such as electrical service, steel water pipes, lead-based paints, and asbestos products that may require upgrading or removal. Despite these concerns, 1960s homes offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of history and enjoy the charm and nostalgia of a bygone era.

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