The History of Mid-Century Gems
From Student to Preservationist and Mid-Century Enthusiast: The Educational Roots of Mid-Century Gems
Mid-Century Gems was born from a deep admiration for the bold, timeless designs of the mid-century modern movement. The founder, a dedicated preservationist and architecture enthusiast, first cultivated their passion while studying in the Department of Art and Architecture at the University of Idaho. This academic foundation became the bedrock of their expertise, shaping an understanding of architectural principles, design theory, and historical preservation.
While at the University of Idaho, the founder studied under Matthew Brehm, an esteemed architect and professor known for his keen eye for urban sketching, architectural history, and design integrity. Under Brehm’s mentorship and a series of thoughtful teaching assistants, several of whom they remain close with today, they gained hands-on experience in analyzing structures, exploring form and function, and understanding the cultural significance of mid-century modern architecture.
Acknowledging Early Influences: A Major Shout Out to the University of Idaho’s Art & Architecture Program
The University of Idaho’s College of Art and Architecture (CAA) is known for its immersive, design-driven approach, offering students a holistic education in architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, and art history. With a focus on sustainability, historic preservation, and innovation, the program fosters a deep respect for design’s role in shaping communities.
One of the standout aspects of the University of Idaho’s architecture program is its hands-on methodology. Students engage in studio-based learning, field studies, and real-world applications of architectural theory. The program encourages students to think critically about space, materiality, and the intersection of design and human experience, perfectly aligning with mid-century modernism's ethos.
"I’ll never forget one specific major assignment in our first year of study. We were tasked with selecting a building on campus and, without using any traditional measurement tools, conduct a full building analysis using only our feet. A few of my classmates and I entered a three-story, 7,500 square foot building around 6:30 p.m. on a Friday night—and we didn’t leave until we had paced out the entire space around 11:00 a.m. the next morning. I’ve always loved the sketching aspect of architecture and interior design—and in general—but this assignment pushed me to trust my instincts in an entirely new way. Pacing off a space of that size to estimate dimensions felt crazy at the time, but it gave me a hands-on, experience-based approach to measuring and understanding spatial relationships in the field." — Founder, Mid-Century Gems
The University of Idaho's Department of Art and Architecture curriculum is heavily influenced by modernist, sustainable, and design-thinking principles—an approach that resonated with Mid-Century Gems' founder. Students are encouraged to develop a keen appreciation for mid-century architecture's clean lines, functional aesthetics, and timeless appeal through research, sketching, and structural analysis.
Bringing the Vision of Mid-Century Gems to Life
After years of research, study, and exploration, our founder launched Mid-Century Gems, a platform dedicated to celebrating, documenting, and preserving mid-century modern architecture and design. What began as an academic interest quickly became a full-fledged mission to educate, inspire, and advocate for mid-century preservation.
Through photography, historical research, and storytelling, Mid-Century Gems brings forgotten architectural treasures into the spotlight, ensuring that these structures remain appreciated and protected for generations to come. Our founder’s background in art and architecture, combined with an insatiable curiosity for design history, fuels the platform’s commitment to authenticity and excellence.
Whether uncovering mid-century gems in Phoenix, Spokane, and Palm Springs or celebrating architectural icons right at home in Boise, Idaho, Mid-Century Gems goes beyond being just a resource—it’s a tribute to the movement that redefined modern living, honoring visionaries like Richard Neutra and Bruce Walker along the way.
The Future of Mid-Century Gems
As Mid-Century Gems continues to grow, the founder remains dedicated to educating the public, advocating for historic preservation, and uncovering the untold stories of mid-century modernism. With a foundation built on years of study, mentorship from architectural greats, and an unwavering commitment to design, Mid-Century Gems is set to remain an essential voice in the mid-century preservation movement.
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