The ModBlog

Portland mid-century modern house with a Japanese garden
By Brian Enright February 28, 2026
When modern architects in the Pacific Northwest began searching for solutions in the 1930s, they found that Japanese builders had tackled many of their same problems.
a post and beam construction interior of a mid-century modern home.
By Brian Enright February 17, 2026
How the ancient building technique of post-and-beam construction got reimagined for the modern era helps explain why mid-century homes look and feel the way they do.
Contemporary house with a gray roof and garage, stone and wood accents, and a concrete driveway.
By Brian Enright February 9, 2026
The terms "modern" and "contemporary" get used interchangeably in real estate, but there is a difference. Let's review what makes a home contemporary vs modern.
Modern Home in the Pacific Northwest
By Brian Enright November 14, 2025
Explore why Portland and Seattle became leaders in modern residential architecture, shaped by culture, climate, sustainability, and regional design.
Modern cabin in a forest setting with a wooden deck and large windows.
By Brian Enright January 14, 2024
The environmental impact of modern life is becoming an increasing concern. People want to live more sustainable lives and limit their impact on the environment. For many, eco-friendly modern homes have a significant role in making our lives more sustainable. Real estate markets are seeing increased ...
Modern home with large windows, dark trim, and landscaped yard.
By Brian Enright January 9, 2024
Many of us consider our homes to be our castles, but for some, the outdoor space is where we define what we want from our homes. It can be a refuge from the stresses of the modern world, a place to spend time relaxing with friends and loved ones, a recreation space for activities, or any other numbe...
Modern two-story house with dark brown siding, large windows, and a flat roof against a blue sky.
By Brian Enright March 30, 2023
The desire for a more sustainable life is growing. People want to conserve resources, live in healthier homes, and do what they can to protect the environment. This demand leads many to the idea of a LEED-certified project.LEED Certified ProjectsLEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental...
Man installing a roller shade in a window frame, indoors. He wears a white shirt, green straps.
By Brian Enright January 2, 2023
Finding the right window treatments is often the most challenging part of designing a room. You want them to be functional, but you also want them to fit your style. Working with a window treatment expert can be one way to ensure you get the right coverings for your windows. Check out the following ...
Modern Palm Springs Home
By Brian Enright October 19, 2022
You won’t find many places that have as much of a connection to modern design as Palm Springs. There is much to see, from iconic celebrity homes to classic commercial buildings. With Palm Springs mid-century modern tour operators, you have some of the best options for enjoying these designs.The...
Modern kitchen with wood cabinetry, white accents, and three pendant lights.
By Brian Enright September 21, 2022
If you're thinking of investing in custom cabinets for your modern home check out these local Portland cabinet makers. Custom cabinets help resale value too.
Modern house with dark wood siding, large windows, and a mature tree in the yard.f n
By Brian Enright July 13, 2022
You may already be familiar with LEED certification.The idea is to promote building projects that are better for the environment while also being better for us.
mid-century modern home with double gable roof
By Brian Enright June 29, 2022
The roofs are among the most striking features of mid-century modern homes. The roofing is practical in design and can also make the home stand out.