DPP | Compass Throughout the Decades 


 
Carefully Curated by Each Era
 
Southern California looks pretty different than it did 150 years ago, and its evolution can be traced via its residential architecture. While peaceful times were represented by the use of craftsman skills, more affordable housing became the go-to during times of war, and booming economies led to extravagant design. Discover dpp homes throughout the decades, from the 19th century through present day. 
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19th Century


1800-1895
 
Known for its charming Victorian mansions and old-world style, the 19th century also gave birth to the Colonial Revival period, thanks to the 1876 Centennial Exposition, which celebrated the 100th year anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For the first time in America’s history, it became important to document and preserve buildings of architectural interest.

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Turn of the Century


1896-1918
 
Queen-Anne style architecture dominated during the turn of the century, but Colonial Revival homes gained real traction during this era. The early 1900s also ushered in the American Craftsman style — inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement — that became synonymous with Southern California. Craftsman homes, as epitomized by the California bungalow, utilized natural materials in contrast to the over-decorated and eclectic Victorian aesthetic.
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Pre-War


1919-1940
 
Period Revival style homes such as Spanish, Mediterranean, Italianate, and Tudor helped define the Pre-War era. In the 1920s and 1930s, Art Deco buildings created futuristic skylines in downtown LA and on Wilshire Boulevard’s Miracle Mile. Streamline Moderne drive-ins were all the rage and Googie-themed coffee shops and gas stations were influenced by everything from jets to the Atomic Age.
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Mid-Century Modern


1945-1965
 
The beginning of the Mid-Century Modern era popularized single story Minimal Traditional and Ranch-style homes that were ideal for young families or those returning from World War II. Modernism blossomed with creative custom builds such as Pierre Koenig’s Case Study #21 and John Lautner’s Silvertop. With an emphasis on the indoor-outdoor connection and open floor plans, Mid-Century Modern architecture boomed across the U.S.
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Post-Modern


1966-1995
 
Characterized by compact A-Frames and Split-Level houses, the Post-Modern era coincided with the construction of new highways, dams, and lakes, which opened up the wilderness to Americans. The period’s innovative architecture included Frank Gehry’s expressive builds in Santa Monica and Venice, the use of bold color and fragmentary shapes, and experimental residences by the likes of Thom Mayne and Eric Owen Moss.
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Current Era


1996-Present
 
Thanks to progressive architects, sustainable materials, and technological advances, current builds are more exciting, eco-friendly, and luxurious than ever before. From Contemporary Architectural homes and live-work lofts to historic converted condo projects, small-lot subdivisions, and expertly restored estates, there’s no shortage of inspired design throughout the communities we serve, from Malibu to Palm Springs.

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