In the late 1930s, a group of émigré European Modernists—Marcel Breuer, Serge Chermayeff, Walter Gropius, and Eero Saarinan—began to build summer homes on the Outer Cape Cod, mostly in Wellfleet. "Though humble in budget, materials, and environmental impact, the Outer Cape’s Modern houses manage to be manifestos of their designers' philosophy and way of living, close to nature, immersed in art, and seeking community," according to the Cape Cod Modern House Trust. Painter James Lechay (1907–2001) moved in the same circles; his house remains one of the best examples of modest Bauhaus architecture in town (it's also for rent seasonally; go to We Need a Vacation for information). For more photos, see Architect Visit: Midcentury Modern in Wellfleet by Hayden Walling; to read more about Hayden Walling, go to the CCMHT.
Create the low-key, modernist Outer Cape look with the following elements:
Above: Modernica Case Study Sofa; $1,698 at Modernica.
Above L: Pello Chair; $49.99 at Ikea. Above R: Mil Floor Light; $24.99.
Above: Celeste Round New Zealand Shag Wool Rug (six feet in diameter); $599 at Crate and Barrel.
Above: Driftwood Birds by Osamu Harihara; $120 to $330 at Tortoise in Los Angeles; contact Tortoise directly for information.
Above R: George Nelson Ball Lamp; $269 at YLighting.
Above: The adjustable Scissor Table is available from SF architect John Randolph adjusts from 18 to 30 inches in height.
Above: Thin Stripe Ceramic Lamp with linen/cotton shade; $149 at West Elm.