Mid-Century Modernization in Phoenix — Thoughtful Remodeling with Architectural Integrity
Mid-century modern homes are more than just a style—they’re a reflection of an optimistic era, full of clean lines, open spaces, and indoor-outdoor harmony. Here in Phoenix, neighborhoods filled with these post-war architectural gems are being rediscovered by homeowners who want to honor their design history while upgrading for 21st-century living.
At Homework Remodels, we specialize in Mid-Century Modernization—an intentional approach to remodeling that updates these homes with care, preserving their signature details while improving livability, comfort, and energy performance. Whether you live in a classic Ralph Haver home or another modernist icon from the 1950s and ’60s, our team helps you modernize with integrity.
What Is Mid-Century Modernization?
Unlike typical remodeling, Mid-Century Modernization is about elevating the home’s design without compromising its architectural roots. We view it as a thoughtful stewardship process that enhances what’s already beautiful—rather than erasing it.
Our Definition of Mid-Century Modernization:
- Preserving architectural integrity — clerestory windows, flat rooflines, beamed ceilings, and exposed masonry are celebrated, not covered up
- Improving flow and functionality — strategic reconfiguration of spaces without disrupting the home’s open feel
- Modernizing kitchens and baths — integrating updated layouts and features while honoring the home’s design language
- Blending new additions seamlessly — expanding square footage in ways that look and feel original
- Upgrading systems and efficiency — integrating HVAC, insulation, windows, and smart-home features subtly into the existing structure
When done well, mid-century modernization makes a home feel contemporary without losing the timeless simplicity that defines the era.
Why Phoenix Is Ground Zero for Mid-Century Modernization
With over 300 days of sunshine and a post-WWII development boom, Phoenix was a natural canvas for mid-century design. The flat-roofed, low-slung homes that define this style were perfect for the desert climate, and architects like Ralph Haver shaped entire neighborhoods with their vision.
Many of these homes were modest in size, built with economy and efficiency in mind. Today, that simplicity is a blank slate for homeowners looking to enhance livability without losing the MCM charm. Our city is home to dozens of mid-century modern neighborhoods that are ripe for thoughtful renovation.
Explore our Guide to Ralph Haver Neighborhoods »
Common Remodeling Goals in Mid-Century Homes
While every project is unique, homeowners often share common objectives when modernizing a mid-century home. We’ve refined our design-build process to meet these goals while keeping the home’s character intact.
- Open Up the Layout—Mindfully
Many MCM homes were built with a semi-open concept—but they don’t always align with today’s preferences. We can open up kitchens, remove load-bearing walls, and reorient layouts, all while staying faithful to the home’s horizontal flow.
See how we remove walls in mid-century homes.»
- Expand the Kitchen for Modern Living
The original galley kitchens were compact and efficient but not suited for the way modern families cook, gather, and entertain. We design mid-century-inspired kitchens with expanded work triangles, sleek cabinetry, floating shelves, and updated lighting that nods to the period.
Explore our open-concept kitchen remodel in Arcadia Lite »
- Update Bathrooms with Spa-Level Style
Tiled shower surrounds, floating vanities, and streamlined fixtures can all be added without clashing with the home’s design. We often rework plumbing configurations and add skylights to brighten compact bathroom spaces.
- Add a Master Suite or Home Office
Many MCM homes predate the desire for large primary suites or work-from-home spaces. We design seamless additions that match the original roofline, pitch, and materials, so it looks like it’s always been there.
View our project pages for custom home additions.»
How We Approach Mid-Century Modernization
Our proven design-build remodeling process gives homeowners a clear roadmap from concept to completion. This integrated approach is especially valuable when working with mid-century homes, which often require structural insight, preservation experience, and creative design all at once.
Step 1: Listening & Learning
We begin by learning your goals, walking the home with care, and identifying character-defining elements to preserve.
Step 2: Creative Design That Honors the Past
Our designers specialize in mid-century aesthetics and develop ideas that both solve your functional needs and enhance your home’s style.
Step 3: Planning and Preconstruction
We assess structural elements, upgrade electrical and plumbing systems, and design with building science and efficiency in mind. We help you select timeless finishes—never trendy fads.
Step 4: Thoughtful Construction
Our experienced craftsmen execute with care, protecting your home’s original features and applying the same attention to detail that went into the original build.
Featured Project: Arcadia Lite Whole-Home Remodel & Addition
One of our most celebrated examples of mid-century modernization is this award-winning remodel and 500-square-foot addition in Arcadia Lite. Originally a compact mid-century home, our client wanted to modernize without sacrificing its character.
We:
- Reconfigured the kitchen with a large island and clerestory light
- Opened the main living areas for better entertaining flow
- Added a new primary suite with seamless roofline continuity
- Enhanced indoor-outdoor connection with full-length sliders
- Upgraded HVAC, insulation, and finishes for energy performance
This project won a NARI Contractor of the Year Award and has been featured in our marketing as a model for what mid-century modernization can achieve.
Read the full case study.»
Neighborhoods Where We Modernize Mid-Century Homes
Homework Remodels works throughout the Valley, with extensive experience in mid-century neighborhoods, including:
We’ll continue expanding this list with dedicated feature pages, each tailored to the unique architectural qualities and remodeling potential of these beloved communities.
Why Homeowners Trust Homework Remodels
With over 20 years of experience, Homework Remodels has built a reputation for craftsmanship, communication, and creative design. We’re passionate about honoring the mid-century legacy in Phoenix and helping homeowners modernize with care.
- Design-Build Experts — From concept through construction
- Historic Home Specialists — With an eye for preservation
- Award-Winning Remodels — NARI-certified and nationally recognized
- People-First Philosophy — Transparent, collaborative, and client-focused
Your home deserves a team that respects its history and sees its full potential. That’s who we are.
Start Your Mid-Century Modernization Journey Today
Ready to enhance your home while preserving what makes it special? Let’s talk. Our free consultation includes a walk-through of your property, ideas tailored to your goals, and insights into how we approach modernization with purpose.