Chattanooga, with its rolling mountains, vibrant arts scene and rich Civil War history, might not be the first place one thinks of when considering mid-century modern architecture. This sleek, futuristic and often-minimalist style flourished in the 1940s through the 1960s, leaving an indelible mark on cities like Los Angeles, Palm Springs and Chicago. But Chattanooga? Here, amid the historic homes and industrial-era brick buildings, pockets of mid-century modern design stand like hidden gems, offering a glimpse into a bold architectural past that’s both surprising and exhilarating.
Mid-century modern architecture speaks to me on a deep level. It represents an era of innovation, optimism and a seamless blend of form and function. The clean lines, open spaces and intentional integration with nature make it one of the most captivating design movements of the 20th century.
As a real estate developer with a passion for preserving and promoting mid-century design, I’ve made it my mission to enhance Chattanooga’s architectural landscape while celebrating this timeless style. My wife, Jennifer and I established Uptown Development with the vision of merging modern luxury with the enduring appeal of mid-century design. While Chattanooga is more known for its colonial classics, it also holds its own mid-century architectural treasures – if you know where to look.
Missionary Ridge is home to an array of mid-century gems, featuring low-slung profiles and expansive windows that maximize the breathtaking views of Chattanooga. Many of these homes are built directly into the ridge, seamlessly integrating with the natural landscape and exemplifying the core principle of mid-century architecture: a harmonious balance between structure and environment.
Among them, the Shavin House, designed by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, stands as a remarkable testament to this ethos, showcasing Wright’s signature organic architecture.
One of our most exciting new projects, “Bossa,” is nestled within one of these distinctive enclaves of mid-century design on Colyar Drive in Missionary Ridge. This home – originally built in the 1960s – captures the effortless cool of Hollywood Hills and Palm Springs, boasting sleek lines, an open floor plan and fluid indoor-outdoor living spaces that pay true homage to mid-century modernism and the surrounding landscape.
Likewise, Stuart Heights, with its rolling hills and wooded lots, offers a charming collection of mid-century homes that feel like a step back in time. I’ve had the pleasure of remodeling several of these iconic homes, most notably on Avalon Circle – a picturesque, tree-lined street filled with mid-century architecture at every turn. One standout project was Palm Paradiso, a true transformation that beautifully blended modern updates with the home’s original mid-century character, while adding pops of color and authentic mid-century details with geometric screen walls, bold wallpaper and mosaic tiles.
Unfortunately, not all of Chattanooga’s mid-century gems have stood the test of time. Among the most significant losses was the Livingston House in Riverview, a masterpiece by my personal favorite modernist icon, Richard Neutra. As the only Neutra-designed home in Tennessee, it was a striking example of his signature style – clean lines, expansive glass and an effortless connection to nature.
Its demolition was a profound loss, as I often draw inspiration from Neutra’s vision, striving to recreate that same seamless harmony between art, nature and comfort in every home I have the privilege to restore or recreate.
As Chattanooga continues to grow and evolve, I hope to see even more recognition and preservation of its mid-century heritage. There’s so much potential here and I’m committed to playing a role in ensuring that these architectural gems are celebrated. Whether it’s through restoring existing structures or designing new homes that honor mid-century principles, my goal remains the same: to share my passion for this incredible style with the community I love.
While many people visit Chattanooga for its bridges, mountains or revitalized downtown, my favorite thing will always be its mid-century modern architecture. It’s a part of the city that feels personal to me and I take pride in helping it thrive. For those who share my passion, I encourage you to explore, appreciate and preserve these stunning examples of modernist design. Because once you start looking, you’ll find that mid-century magic is all around.
“My Favorite Thing” is a regular feature in which Chattanoogans from all walks of life write about the one thing they enjoy the most in the Scenic City. Installments unearth hidden gems, offer fresh perspectives of local mainstays and reveal the rich diversity of Chattanooga.
Gary Crowe was born and raised in Chattanooga and is the founder and owner of Uptown Firm, a boutique real estate brokerage. His passion starts with mid-century modern architecture and with his wife, Jennifer Crowe, with whom he started Uptown Development. Crowe believes in taking a unique approach to development, sales and marketing that leads to bold and exciting places.