Mid Century Modern

West Lafayette experienced rapid growth in the years following World War II as returning veterans created a demand for additional faculty and administrators at Purdue University. The boom caused a sharp increase in residential construction over the next 20 years. Four of these homes were designed by architect Robert Smith, a professor at the University of Illinois, who had 20 commissions in West Lafayette. These homes feature his signature details – integration of the structure with nature, expansive glass walls, the use of natural materials, and louvered openings to enhance ventilation.