These Vintage Houses Are True Time Capsules of Another Era
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Not everyone is looking for a new house. In fact, many people are looking at old houses for sale as a unique place to live or a source of design inspiration.
These vintage houses are true time capsules. They have changed little since they were built and are a true window into the past.
The Ennis House in Los Angeles, California
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The Ennis House in Los Angeles was built by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1924. It is listed on the National Register of Historic places and is a state and city cultural monument.
You might recognize its unique look. The famous house has been featured on television and in movies, including "Blade Runner."
1920s Elegance
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The home is made from 27,000 interlocking granite blocks designed by Wright.
Overlooking Los Angeles
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The house almost didn't survive. It suffered significant structural damage during the 1994 Northridge earthquake.
A Proper Restoration
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In 2011, supermarket billionaire and preservationist Ron Burkle bought it for $4.5 million with the promise of renovation.
Luxury Defined
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And it remains a work of art. The home has over 6,000 square feet of living space, which includes a detached guesthouse.
Cozy in Concrete
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The Ennis House is the largest of four concrete-block houses that Wright built in Los Angeles. Much of its furniture was also designed by the architect.
A Vision Restored
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After restoration, the house was up for sale again in 2018 for $23 million.
Unlike Other Houses
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The Ennis House is unlike other Frank Lloyd Wright homes in that it's bright with high ceilings. Most of his creations are low and dark inside.
New Owners
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The home sold in 2019 for $18 million. It used to host tours, but they have been temporarily suspended.
A Mid-Century Modern in Hamburg, New York
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This house in New York State has been in the same family since it was built in 1953.
A Unique Look at the Past
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Because of this, its interiors have not changed much since.
A Retro Color Palate
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According to the owner, everything is original, down to the avocado carpets.
A Jaw-Dropping Fireplace
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The house was designed with Frank Lloyd Wright in mind and includes built-ins and bleached mahogany everywhere.
A Classic Bathroom
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The home is for sale for $669,000, which is about $400,000 more than houses in the area.
Built to Last
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The 3,479-square-foot home’s interior is made from concrete and steel.
Room to Cook
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The kitchen floor is made from imported Italian marble.
Cabinet Space Galore
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The cherrywood cabinets were made from trees grown on the property.
Brass Railings Throughout
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The home was used to entertain, both inside and out.
It sits on a 3.34-acres perch and even has a private lake with a dock.
Tiki Elements
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The family room features flagstone floors, cypress and large windows.
A Swinging 1960s Pad in Hershey, Pennsylvania
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Marlin Umberger, an esteemed builder in the Hershey area, created this home in 1959.
Space-Age Elements
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The sunburst design on the door is very indicative of the time period.
The Little Details
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Umberger was also a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright and designed the mid-century modern ranch with him in mind.
Room to Spread Out
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The open living room features, high ceilings, built-in speakers, and large windows.
Open and Airy
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The wall of windows gives warmth to the large space.
The Charming Kitchen
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The home's kitchen is fully equipped and has plenty of counter space, and even a built-in desk.
Room to Play
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The basement rec room is massive with a brick fireplace, a full bath, and its own bonus room.
Wood-Paneled Excellence
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This spacious room has vaulted and beamed ceiling and is a perfect writing space.
Retro in Red
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It has a bedroom big enough for your round bed.
Delicate Decor
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This is one of two full bathrooms with a decidedly mid-century vibe.
A 1970s Throwback in Minnetonka, Minnesota
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This home was built in 1970 by architect Arthur Dickey. It features over 5,500 square feet of living space.
A Bold Entryway
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Stained glass frames and bright orange double doors welcome you into the house.
Untouched for Over 50 Years
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The home has been cared for by the original owner and has vaulted ceilings, walnut built-ins, stained glass, and a two-sided copper and brick fireplace.
Understated Comfort
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The living room is part of the home's open floor plan.
This Small Kitchen Gets the Job Done
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While the kitchen is not very big, there are several cabinets, and the counter space is plentiful.
A Dining Room Filled With Built-Ins
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The home boasts five bedrooms, a home office, and five bathrooms.
The Two-Way Fireplace
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The second living room looks out on the property's lush greenery.
Curved Air
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The bedrooms boast curved walls, high ceilings and built-in storage cabinets.
That '70s Wallpaper
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While the house is mostly brick and wood, it does feature some color in its bold wallpaper.
A Place to Entertain
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The home also features an indoor pool, sauna and even a dance floor.
A 1980s Desert Home in Indian Wells, California
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If you're looking for desert excellence, this timeless classic built in 1989 has it all.
A Pastel Palate
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True to the decade, the design scheme is pastel with a little neon thrown in.
A Disco Vibe
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Neon and a mirrored ceiling make the main living area look even bigger than it is.
1980s Arcade Style
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The previous owners also owned a casino in Las Vegas, and the billiards room reflects that vibe.
A Room With a View
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These floor-to-ceiling windows brighten the home and give its color palate contrast.
Shocking Pink
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A secondary party kitchen has the requisite marble and neon.
A Multicolored Marvel
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This brightly colored nook is perfect for morning coffee and a view of the desert.
A Place to Get Ready
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The glam room has a nail station and hair salon.
An Oval Bathroom
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Glass blocks offer privacy in the main bathroom.
Relax in the Indoor Jacuzzi
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What desert home would be complete without a jacuzzi? This one has one that is unforgettable.