Friday Funny: 15 Mid-Century Modern Death Traps

With their flexible open spaces, right angles, and expanses of glass, mid-century modern houses are coveted by those homeowners with a keen design sense. And, as Projectophile illustrates, it's best if those homeowners don't have children.

1 minute read

April 26, 2013, 2:00 PM PDT

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj

"The clean lines, the geometric decorative elements, the seamless blending of indoor and outdoor space… I sure do love mid-century modern architecture," says Clare at Projectophile. "Do you know what I love more? My children. And that is why I will never live in my MCM dream home. Because mid-century modern architecture is designed to KILL YOUR CHILDREN. (Also, moderately clumsy or drunk adults)."

Using copious case studies, she documents the three key elements of mid-century modern residential design that pose a serious public safety hazard:

Open ledges
Fire, water, and other deaths traps inspired by nature
Floating stairs

FULL STORY: 15 Mid-Century Modern Dream Homes that will Kill Your Children

Wednesday, February 27, 2013 in Projectophile

Architecture History / Preservation Humor World Mid-century modern Children Death Traps View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.