Calculated Cool: The Math Behind a Midcentury Modern Home

Math and architecture have always been intertwined, and not simply from an engineering standpoint. Geometry defines the space and form of buildings, and in residential architecture, it became the backbone of Midcentury Modern styles. Math allowed architects to break traditional boundaries and create cool houses.

By using post-and-beam construction, traditional load-bearing walls were no longer necessary, and architects discovered a newfound freedom. Suddenly, they could design the massive floor-to-ceiling glass walls that were a defining element of the Midcentury Modern home.

These homes are even more popular today than when they originated. It’s not just that they are design icons, but they were built extremely well with innovations that builders today continue to copy, and it all comes down to the math. So when you find one that has hit the market, move quickly. They never last. I’m speculating that will be the case with this Wynnewood Hills Midcentury Modern home. It is iconic in so many ways.

It was built by the legendary George Sebastian, who founded what is now Sebastian Construction Group in 1948 after returning from military service. Sebastian Construction was, and still is, noted for its quality builds and attention to detail. Oak Cliff’s Wynnewood neighborhood was his launching pad. At the time, it was also the hot new neighborhood conceived by Angus Wynne and Rosco Dewitt to provide not only homes but also every modern convenience via the new shopping center, Wynnewood Village.

When Sebastian finished the home, it was featured by Jeanne Barnes in the Dallas Morning News on December 30, 1958.

“Cathedral ceilings, indoor-outdoor living areas, a two-level living-dining area, and a central kitchen. All these make the new home of Mr. and Mrs. L.J. Donham at 1729 Boca Chica one of the most interesting homes built in Dallas in the past 6 months,” the article reads.

This 3,966-square-foot, four-bedroom, two-bathroom residence combines every cool element we love in a Midcentury Modern home, from the double-entry walnut doors framed by geometric transom windows to the soaring vaulted ceilings, a dramatic central fireplace, and the sunken conversation pit. This is open-concept living at its best.

The kitchen was beautifully and sensitively updated from its original orange Formica countertops and copper-finish appliances. It overlooks the breakfast room, with its views through a wall of windows and French doors to the backyard, itself complete with an in-ground pool, slide, and diving board.

As I mentioned, Midcentury Modern homes are more popular than ever, so when you spot them, move quickly.

Jeremiah Hobbs with United Real Estate has 1729 Boca Chica Dr. listed for $799,000.