designboom · Kunst en ontwerp

Leisurama's Prefabricated Promise of Mid-Century Vacation Homes

In 1965, Leisurama Homes offered prefabricated, affordable vacation houses in Montauk, New York, complete with furnishings and promising postwar summer fun for middle-class families. These homes, designed by Andrew Geller and Raymond Loewy, were sold at Macy's department store, often including Melmac plates and Murphy beds.

Leisurama homes were marketed as a convenient purchase, similar to buying other goods, with options for full furnishing from Macy's. The development aimed to provide accessible vacationing for the average working family, fostering community and lifelong friendships through shared summer experiences.

Mia Certic, Executive Director at the Montauk Historical Society and an owner of an original Leisurama home, recalls the communal move-in days that immediately created a sense of neighborhood. Her family's purchase was influenced by the reputation of designer Raymond Loewy and an aggressive sales approach that included incentives like a free weekend stay.

Despite limited square footage, the compact design with ample storage allowed for comfortable family gatherings. While lacking modern amenities like air conditioning, residents focused on outdoor activities, highlighting a quaint postwar American ideal of summer housing.

Graphic designer Paul Sahre, who later rented an 'Expanded Convertible Leisurama' and documented the development in his book 'Leisurama Now,' observed the visual evolution of the neighborhood as owners made alterations over time. He noted that Montauk's remoteness contributes to its unique character, even amidst rising real estate prices and changing demographics.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.