05.  Art Moderne

                 5a. Art Moderne,  (Kitchener)

The architects of the 1930's sought a stream-lined, modern, up-to-date look that moved away from the Cubism and hard-edged Art Deco that had preceded it. Buildings and experimental transportation at two major world fairs (Chicago,1934 and New York,1939) created the impetus. A streamlined train and the Chrysler Airstream Sedan* titillated the American public who, in the throes of the depression, yearned for something hopeful, clean and new.

                                                5b. Art Moderne,  (Kitchener)

      5c. Art Moderne, (Guelph)

What to look for (clues)

• • The stucco finishes are usually a startling white but pastel colours may be used.

  • Large expanses of glass and/or vertically stacked, glass bricks are normal. The majority of the glass windows are vertical and usually appear in sets.I can't ever remember seeing shutters.

  • Occasionally, a round or oval window, somewhat similar to a ship's porthole, has been added.

  • Some of the corners are curved rather than at 90-degree angles.

  • A flat roof.

  • Door entrances may be inset or, conversely, consist of a large, slightly protruding, heavy, cement structure.

  • The house is almost devoid of decoration with the exception of long, horizontal lines called 'string courses'.

               5d. Art Moderne, (Quebec City)

    5e.  Art Moderne

                              5f.  Art Moderne  (Toronto)

Where to find it

Some, older, urban neighbourhoods, dating back to the 1930's, are enhanced by these plain, distinctive homes. I have not found one in a rural setting as yet. Unlike many of the striking older homes, I have also not found signs of any more modern versions. 

See Also:

The Art Moderne homes are frequently mistaken for the Art Deco style. Art Deco was normally used for offices, restaurants and theaters. They are extremely rare as homes (there is one that I know about in Toronto).

* The Chrysler Air Stream Sedans (and its companion De Soto) were too modern a vehicle for the average driver and sold poorly. This was a pity because it was actually a fine car with numerous technical advances. (Chrysler, wisely, continued to manufacture the older, squarish model, which probably saved the company!)

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