For this project, we define Mid-Century Modern as structures constructed between 1930 and 1970. Modern is not a style, but encompasses a variety of approaches that sometimes fall under the stylistic terms of Art Deco, Streamlined, Modernistic, Roadside (i.e.: gas stations, eating), International Style, Miesian, Brutalism, Abstract/Stripped Classicism, Organic, Wrightian, A-Frame, Googie and others. The buildings we list depart from the traditional historical styles and ornament such as Colonial (very popular in our area), Gothic and classical revivals, though we do list buildings that attempt to bring the past up to date. Also welcome are bridges and utilitarian structures of important design from the period along with great signs on the road or painted on buildings. Our attempt is to identify important structures and other objects from the period that give a sense of history and should be recognized.

This is a project of Preservation Piedmont. Established in 1993, Preservation Piedmont is a non-profit grass-roots organization dedicated to preservation public awareness and advocacy, serving the City of Charlottesville, the County of Albemarle, and adjacent localities. To learn more about the organization, please visit our website.

Charlottesville

Albemarle County

Waynesboro

Louisa County

Nelson County

Orange County

Featured Buildings

Below is our current database of the mid-century modern buildings we have found in the Piedmont area. We are collecting information about these buildings and would like to grow our list. Please connect with us if you have any suggestions on buildings to add to this list as well as if you have historic photos or information about these historic properties, their occupants, or their architects. Included in our list are demolished buildings that once fit the definition of mid-century modern. In particular, we welcome any additions from the counties surrounding Charlottesville. To make a suggestion or to help us add to our list, please email us: preservationpiedmont@gmail.com.