What is Post-War Architecture? The Definition, Pros, and Cons

In the mid-19th century after World War II, particularly in the late 1940s through the 1960s, life was all about change and new construction. In line with this cultural shift, a new architectural style and movement emerged in real estate. Socio-economic changes and the need for rebuilding in war-torn regions informed the style, known as post-war architecture.

Defined by functionality, simplicity, and the integration of new materials and technologies, post-war architecture created buildings that were boxy and ordinary, but also practical and affordable due to the housing shortages and economic constraints of the time. Despite its sometimes brutalist look, post-war architecture remains relevant and functional in today’s apartment styles. It’s important to consider the pros and cons before deciding if a pre-war unit or post-war unit is right for you.

As citizens rethought and re-populated cities after World War II, architects aimed to create structures that responded to that growth — with practicality, with details that were aesthetically pleasing, and with plenty of new design schemes to match the world’s new normal.

Post-war architecture significantly influenced apartment design, especially in urban settings where the demand for housing surged as the population grew. As you may notice in your own rental, the post-war style manifests in apartments we still live in today.

Open floor plans: Many post-war apartments are characterized by open layouts that maximize space and light. Without the unneeded walls of eras past (like the separate dining rooms, living rooms, and kitchens you may see in pre-war apartments), post-war apartments have added flexibility when it comes to furniture arrangement, making these apartments more compatible with modern living.

Functional design elements: Apartments from the post-war era often incorporate built-in storage solutions and multi-purpose rooms, reflecting the more functional approach of post-war architecture. If you have a post-war apartment, you might find it easier to maximize even a small living space.

Large windows: Post-war designs often have large windows that invite plenty of natural light and create a sense of openness. These large windows not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the apartment, but also contribute to energy efficiency and connection to the outdoors, even in urban units.

Use of modern materials: Many post-war apartments were built with materials that were new for residential spaces at the time, like reinforced concrete and glass. These provide a contemporary feel that remains sought-after today.

Shared spaces: Post-war design was characterized by community-centric philosophies, so you’ll likely find that many apartment complexes built during this time include spaces like gardens, playgrounds, and recreational areas, meant to encourage social interaction among neighbors.

Because they were built for a specific purpose, and in reaction to the end of a highly influential historic period, post-war apartments still fill essential needs for many contemporary renters. When touring post-war units, you’ll likely leave with a long list of benefits and tempting features.

The other side of the post-war, modern architecture coin is characterized by some ‘blind spots’ in the design philosophy. Pointed goals of increasing the volume of residential units and a hyper-focus on functionality leaves some to be desired in terms of aesthetics.

If you’re prioritizing functionality and a flexible layout in your apartment search, a post-war apartment might be right for you. In order to find one, you can always do research into the different neighborhoods and architecture of your city. Many times you can find specific neighborhoods that have higher density of pre- or post-war residential buildings, allowing you to steer your search towards those characteristics you’re looking for.

In New York City, many apartments in the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, and Yorkville were designed and built post-war. If you’re not set on living in Manhattan or Brooklyn, you can look at apartments in the suburbs, too, which is where much of the residential development was focused after World War II. The same goes for Boston — if you’re leaning towards true post-war styles, the suburbs are probably your best bet.