“The mother art is architecture. Without an architecture of our own
we have no soul of our own civilization.” - Frank Lloyd Wright
Modernism: The Next Preservation Frontier
“Expressive of a “form follows function” ethos and devoid of ornamentation, mid-century modern architecture is often undervalued as heritage worthy of preservation. While presenting unique challenges in terms of material conservation, structural stabilization and facade retrofitting, this style embodies distinctive social, cultural and technological significance.
Early and mid-century modern architecture is the next preservation frontier as these buildings age.” - Center for the Preservation of Modernism
Sealuxe Engineered
Mediterranean Miracles
Your Country Homesite - At The Edge of Sky Blue Water
Within the City Limits of Dallas
“Zoned by Nature”
“Only Rules Give Us Freedom” Goethe
Research - Technology - Climatology
For You in - Mediterranean Gardens
BEAUTIFUL PATIOS
All city conveniences, gas, lights, water, storm sewers.
A Country Estate Community - just fifteen minutes from Downtown Dallas. Seventy-three acres of highly restricted homesites, from moderate size at a moderate price, to large estates.
A wide variety of sites available. Lots with private creek frontage, where you can swim and fish in your own back yard. Here nothing has been done to mar the natural rustic beauty of the tree studded rolling terrain.
BETTER PLANNED - More beautiful than Turtle Creek
Designed for discriminating people who want to express their own good taste and individuality in their homes…
EVELOPEMENT ENGINEERING CORPORATION
J.P. Travis - Climatology - Orientation + Aladar Olgyay - Consultant Architect
Call Fairdale 2145
Original Advertisement for Mediterranean Gardens, 1953
John Preston Travis II
The Visionary Who Created Mediterranean Gardens
J.P. Travis was a pioneer in the manufacturing of windows and non-ferrous metals, particularly aluminum, and was instrumental in the development of the Mid-Century curtain wall which revolutionized the skyline in post-war America. Travis is notable for his work with prominent architects of the day including Mies Van Der Rohe, George Dahl, Emil Fretz Jr., W.W. Ahlschlager, Alfred C. Finn, Pietro Belluschi, Igor Polevitzky, Roscoe Dewitt and A.B. Swank Jr. Many of the public buildings, hotels, corporate headquarters, and sky-scrapers that Travis collaborated on are listed on the National Historic Register of Places.
Born in 1899 in Dyle, Texas, to share croppers, J.P. was a self made man who moved to Dallas after the end of World War I. For the next six years J.P. worked days and attended night school where he studied engineering, drafting and public speaking. In 1925, he founded Universal Corporation and soon began manufacturing windows under the trade name Sealuxe. At the outset of World War II, J.P. converted his facilities for the war effort and began manufacturing precision rockets and pre-fabricated mobile air hangers. His work was recognized for excellence by both the Army and Navy.
After World War II, J.P. and Universal Corporation resumed production of Sealuxe materials for the post-war boom in building. Architects were promising nothing short of utopia as a wave of modernism swept the nation, and Travis, Universal Corporation, and Sealuxe were there to meet the needs of Mid Century Modern. Soon buildings across the nation were going up with precision building materials made by J.P. and his companies.
In 1950, J.P. Travis added real estate developer to his list of job titles when he purchased 74 rolling acres from Frank C. Jones at Northwest Highway and Plano Road in Dallas County. J.P. imagined a development of modern homes by leading architects in a natural setting that would be “more beautiful than Turtle Creek.” The development, in two sections, was named Mediterranean Gardens and Sylvania Dells and is the only neighborhood developed by J.P. Travis. The first home in his beloved Mediterranean Gardens, the Lincoln Research House, was completed in 1952.
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Illustration of John Preston Travis II by Dmitri Vail
Viktor Olgyay + Aladar Olgyay
Mediterranean Gardens - Consulting Architects
The Olgyay brothers, Viktor and his identical twin brother Aladar were Hungarian born American architects and city planners, who formalized bio-climatic or passive solar design as a discipline in the firm Olgyay + Olgyay Architects and designed residential, commercial, and exhibition structures. Viktor and Aladar had an academic career as well and taught at several U.S. universities, including the University of Notre Dame, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, and the School of Architecture and Planning at Princeton University.
Viktor and Aladar are best known as the authors of Design with Climate: A Bioclimatic Approach to Architectural Regionalism (1963), Solar Control & Shading Devices (1957), and Architectural Album of the Olgyay Brothers (1946). As leaders in the field of bioclimatic architecture from the early 1950’s and the 1960’s, the Olgyay brothers could be considered the fathers of contemporary environmental building design.
Viktor and Aladar Olgyay began collaborating with J.P. Travis in the early 1950’s, Travis was inspired by their work in the field of bioclimatic architecture and he even manufactured a solar protractor, invented by the Olgyay Brothers, that was a pre-computer tool for calculating the suns position and its effects on a building. It was during this period that J.P. asked Viktor and Aladar to become consulting architects on Mediterranean Gardens and Sylvania Dells. Their original plans include both Mediterranean Gardens and Sylvania Dells as well as plans for a shopping center, a small lake and boutique hotel at the corner of Northwest Highway and Plano Rd, parts of which were never realized.
Photo of Viktor and Aladar Olgyay courtesy of Viktor Olgyay Archive
Lincoln Research House Illustration, 1952 Courtesy of J.P. Travis II Archive
Lincoln Research House
Completed in 1952, the Lincoln Research House is positioned along a gentle curve in the Dixon Branch and was the first home built in the historic Mediterranean Gardens section of our neighborhood. It is the vision of developer J.P. Travis II with consulting architect Walter W. Ahlschlager and consulting climatologist R.L. Biesele Jr. The Lincoln Research House demonstrates all of the advancements in bio-climatic architecture that were developed by Viktor Olgyay and Aladar Olgyay, consulting architects for Mediterranean Gardens, during their time as researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
The Lincoln Research House was heralded as “a revolution of design for tropical housing and building” and “the house of tomorrow” by J.P. Travis II and was written about extensively in newspapers and magazines of the day. It was designed to meet the wide variations of the Dallas climate and was said to be a 30 year advancement in building technology over conventional construction. Incorporated in the design are provisions for solar shades, weather controls, fins, canopies, overhangs, natural breeze ventilation, and double roof construction. I was equipped with forced air ventilation, forced washed air cooling, radiant panel heating, forced circulation warm air heating, and ventilating picture windows. It also boasted a gymnasium swimming pool, sun deck, arrangements for home massage, and violet and red ray light spa treatments.
The Lincoln Research House’s first occupants were bio-climatic researchers who measured the effectiveness of the house, it also served as field headquarters for Engineering Development Corporation during the construction of Mediterranean Gardens and was a second home for J.P. Travis II until it was purchased by Dr. Stanley L Seaton and Mildred Seaton.
The Battle to Save the Sophisticated Vision of 1945 - 1970
“Mid Century Modern Preservation Lets Today’s Citizens Witness Post-War Values
Mid Century Modern buildings reflect the '“zeitgeist” or prevailing concerns, values and goals of the time… After World War II, designers felt an obligation to depart from a brutal past with a modern, even futuristic and ultimately different architecture, interior design and artistic style. A new aesthetic swept the world, a paradigm shift that aimed to bring appealing style to the middle classes as well as the monied. Creatives of the era were determined to send the message, ‘we’re different now.’” - MidCentury.org
Mid Century Modern Origins and Context
“Mid Century Modern architecture emerged roughly between the 1930’s and the 1960’s, flourishing in the aftermath of World War II. This period of post-war optimism, prosperity, technological advancement and a desire for a fresh start greatly influenced the architectural landscape. The movement was a response to the ornate and heavy designs of the past, seeking a departure from excess and a focus on simplicity, functionality, and a harmonious blend with nature.” - Marie Albao
Key Features of Mid Century Architecture
Clean Lines and Organic Forms
Mid Century Modern architecture champions clean, straight lines that create a sense of openness and integration with the surrounding environment. Organic forms, inspired by nature, are often present in the design of both interior and exterior spaces.
Integration with Nature
Large windows, sliding glass doors and open floor plans are common elements that facilitate a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. This emphasis on merging architecture with nature blurs the boundaries between the two.
Function and Simplicity
The movement prioritizes functionality and purpose in design. Each element, from furniture to structural components, serve a clear purpose while maintaining an uncluttered and minimal aesthetic.
Innovative Use of Materials
Mid Century Modern architects experimented with the new materials of their time, such a steel, concrete and glass. These materials allowed for innovative descignsand the creation of structures with large windows and open spaces.
Flat Planes and Geometric Shapes
Flat or gently sloping roof lines, often with overhanging eaves, are a hallmark of this style. Geometric shapes, including triangles and rectangles, contribute to the distinctive appeal of Mid Century Modern buildings.” - Marie Albao
Original Advertisement for Mediterranean Gardens - 1953
Mediterranean Gardens - Your Country Homesite
“Zoned by Nature”
For You in - Mediterranean Gardens
How you like to wake up in the middle of a miracle every morning? In Mediterranean Gardens you are surrounded by miracles of nature. Trees, foliage and a creek are part of your individual homesite.
Located just a few minutes from downtown Dallas, you can enjoy the spaciousness and privacy of life in the country. Choice lots are now available for your inspection. Drive out and see for yourself!
J.P. Travis, Developer
Development Engineering Corp
For Information Phone FA-2145
Directions
Drive out to corner of Northwest Highway and Plano Road. 1 mile East of Buckner Blvd. (Loop 12) and White Rock Lake. Turn left on Plano Road.
Enduring Influence
“The influence of Mid Century Modern architecture extends well beyond its initial era. Many contemporary architects and designers draw inspiration from its principles. The movement’s emphasis on open spaces, efficient use of materials, and a connection to nature align with sustainable and eco-friendly practices today. Additionally, its iconic furniture pieces remain popular and sought after, adorning homes with a blend of vintage charm and modern sensibility.
Mid Century Modern architecture stands as a testament to the power of design to reflect the spirit of an era and transcend its time. With its clean lines, functional beauty and seamless integration with nature, this style continues to captivate and inspire architects, designers and homeowners around the world. Whether you’re a fan of its iconic furniture or drawn to the architectural elements themselves, the influence of Mid Century Modern design is unmistakable, enduring and worth preserving.” - Marie Albao
Conserving Modern Architecture
“As time passes, appreciation will inevitably grow for places that represent the Modern era’s richness and diversity, survivors will become precious, and a level of comfort about conserving them will be achieved. In the meantime, important places will be lost unless we stimulate greater public support, access significance in the context of a large number of survivors, and help people learn how to conserve this legacy.” - Getty Conservation Institute
A New Era of Living: Mid Century Modern In Dallas
“The 20th century brought to the fore a veracious desire to supplant the old and embrace new and exciting ideas, causing a break from the previous model and context in design. In turn, new materials increased the freedom of architecture and design. This welcomed into the view of the architect a new splendor of form, brought forth by the developments in the application of concrete, glass and steel.
In a push to keep up with the migration of companies to Dallas, a boom in residential architecture began to evolve. Many architects - David Braden, George Dahl, Herschel Fisher, Grayson Gill, E.G. Hamilton, Howard Meyer, Arch Swank, Jack Wilson, Lyle Rowley, and countless others - provided the design of modern homes during this period, developing neighborhoods surrounding downtown Dallas. With respect for the local environment, these architects developed designs that utilized honest building techniques and materials to create site specific homes.” - Edward Avila
My Mid Century Modern Home
When I heard that Preservation Texas inaugurated its first ever Texas Modern Month, being celebrated the entire month of April 2011, I wanted to share my experience in the Mid Century Modern home in which I lived from the age of six until I left home for college.I grew up in Dallas in a Mid Century Modern home built by my parents and designed by the late architect, Joe Gordon, in 1952. I called the land on which it was built, “d"Cowboy LanD, because at this time in East Dallas, there were few houses and wide expanses. We had over 50 pecan trees on the lot and plenty of land to dig a maze of tunnels in which I got lost in my imagination.
On long summer days, my Mother packed a lunch for me and I didn’t see her again until it was almost dark. Our home was perfect for our family of four.: informal, few walls, lots of light, several changes in ceiling height. This home was unusual in that it was designed by an architect and that it was very modern for its time. I remember looking over the blueprints and being amazed that a person could communicate with flat drawings and create a three dimensional object in which people could live so efficiently, yet remain so comfortable. Still, for me, it was just my house. I did not understand the influence it had on my life until much later, both in the selection of a carrier as an architect and the development of a personal aesthetic and visual vocabulary of design.
The home is still in our family, and though my parents kept it in good shape, it required loving restoration by my sister and her husband. They removed what my mother called “wall to wall” carpet and refinished the beautiful oak strip flooring below it. It still has the original trim details, floor to ceiling glass (something that seems to difficult to execute today), steel casement windows, generous redwood overhangs and the salmon colored common brick. Even then, architects somehow understood the shading effect that generous eaves could provide to reduce the heat load of the hot Texas sun. This was prior to the “new” sustainability movement, it was just intelligent design.
Inspired by Houston Mod, Preservation Texas and partners organized the Texas Modern Month concept to raise awareness of the need to preserve locally, regionally, and nationally significant examples of modern buildings, sites and neighborhoods in Texas. Preservation Texas hopes all communities take time in April to celebrate architecture and landscape design of the 1950’s, 1960’s and 1970’s. Much of this unappreciated architecture is often torn down to make way for bigger developments and larger homes. - Steve Chambers, Architect
What Was New for the 1960’s House?
Many houses were designed with wide overhanging eaves as sun shields.
Aluminum windows did not require painting.
Exterior maintenance was almost eliminated with brick exteriors and stained rough-sawn cedar trim.
Built-in furniture (bookcases, china closets, desks, and vanities) afforded more storage.
Multi-function rooms were emphasized over formal living and dining rooms.
Cathedral ceilings created the illusion of more space.
Master bedrooms often had an adjoining bathroom.
Dishwashers were becoming standard equipment.
Central air conditioning was no longer a luxury - it was a standard amenity.
The aftermath of the Second World War paved the way for creative geniuses to craft a new vision, resulting in timeless designs fit for the modern world.
“Mid Century Modern architecture marks the birth of living spaces defined by geometric lines and expansive glass windows, integrated with the natural environment that surrounds the house. A resurgence of of some architectural elements from the modernism style popularized by the revered architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Mid Century Modern was a refreshing rendition after the bleak episodes of the Second World War.
Even decades since its conception, Mid Century Modern lingers today. It is an architectural legacy that has continued to influence designers of the 21st Century. Its juxtaposition of technology and cutting edge technique with natural elements makes a very bold statement: that man and his evolution can still be one with nature.” - Tatler
Ju-Nel Homes
The partnership of Lyle Rowley and Jack Wilson originated in their work with architect Howard Meyer on Temple Emanu-El and the luxury apartment tower at 3525 Turtle Creek. The duo founded Ju-Nel Homes in 1958 - The name derived from a contraction of their wives names, Julie and Nelda. Similarities between the work of iconic California architects Joseph Eichler and Cliff May can be made in Ju-Nel’s designs.Primarily all three designed with large expanses of glass to maximize the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Ju-Nel and May’s home designs bear even more resemblance in that they both incorporated vertical wood siding with low-pitched roofs and extended soffits…
Ju-Nel’s were widely welcomed by Dallas’s creative class - including Kim Dawson, Stan Richards, and a conductor of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Walter Hendl, who undoubtedly appreciated custom homes that were built in concert (no pun intended) with hilly terrain and natural vegetation.
Ju-Nel interiors promoted open floor plans and clerestory windows to provide expansive interior spaces. Room were often divided with custom-made Japanese screens, while accent walls were dressed with smooth South African wood paneling that created a subtle glow. The team fervently believed in preserving existing trees on building sites - often notching out soffits to allow them room to flourish.” - Kerry Adams
Learn more about Ju-Nel at www.ju-nel.com
Original Advertisement for Lakeland Hills, November, 1955
Sensational Lakeland Hills
11000 block of northwest highway
Homes for discriminating people
Each design is an expression of forward thinking, utilizing line, texture, color and space.
Each home equipped with a three-ton Frigidaire conditioner for year round comfort.
All-electric kitchens featuring the new and revolutionary Frigidaire wall oven and fold-back range units.
A healthful, garbage-free community is made possible by having a Waste King Disposer in every home.
Dallas most distinctive individually designed, no plans repeated in the same block.
Landscaped for sun-loving, garden minded families who demand recreational freedom.
Lakeland Hills will consist of over 1,400 air-conditioned homes. All of a contemporary design.
Completely furnished home open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Longhorn Construction Company