Low-slung ranch homes like these were very popular throughout the Midwest in the middle of the 20th Century. The basic form of this one is “California Contemporary”, which probably puts it in the larger category of Mid-Century Modern. But this one has a couple of very unique details, beginning with the Japanese-inspired wood joinery at the entrance. Not something you see every day in central Ohio!
Look carefully at the front of the ridge in the photo below – is that some sort of Goblin’s head?
These wood joinery details are crazy fun! Some craftsperson put a lot of effort and skill into this.
There are bits and pieces of different stylistic influences on the inside and outside – not just Japanese but Arts and Crafts and Prairie Style.
Hard to beat this setting, up on a hillside and hidden under a canopy of trees.
The posts and railings separating the foyer from the living room is a simplified version of a popular Arts and Crafts detail – separating the rooms but not blocking the views out the back windows.
I’m guessing the owners travelled in the far east – lots of Asian-inspired decor in this room.
I’m all in on these waterfalls and ponds, and am not surprised to see a Japanese Maple tree there, too. The water puts the “cool” in “cool California Contemporary”.
Might be my favorite view of the house – approaching a garage is often an uninspiring event, but not here.
I can only imagine where this stone stairway leads!
This very unusual Cool California Contemporary home was for sale recently – check out the listing here: https://apps.realtor.com/mUAZ/ab50db2a
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