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Home Sweet Homeworks: Late Modernism, Molen Style

By the time we saw the listing that is now our current home, we had put in offers and missed out on two other very cool mid-century modern homes: one in the Westshire neighborhood of West Valley City and one in South Ogden.


When we set out to find a home, we knew we wanted something architecturally significant...


For us, that meant mid-century bones and intentional design. When we saw it listed on the MLS, we recognized it immediately. Designed with a few hallmark features—a distinct conversation pit, bedroom loft, exterior and interior wall planks—we knew it had to be a Ron Molen home. We reached out to Molen's daughter, and later received a call from the architect himself, who confirmed that he had designed the property in question (located in Farmington) for a private homeowner back in 1972.


Ron Molen helped to shape the landscape of late modernism architecture across Salt Lake City and beyond. A University of Utah graduate, he earned his architect's license in 1966 and launched his own practice after an early career alongside Glen Ashton Lloyd. His work became known for a distinctive tension between the expansive and the intimate: sweeping, open gathering spaces were anchored by quiet conversation pits and lofts that invited connection. It was an approach he described as "open, free, and spontaneous space," and it reflected his belief that a family home should be a vibrant, creative, and inspiring environment for everyday existence.



The saying, "They don't make things like they used to" has always resonated with me...


Cozy nook with white sofa, colorful pillows, and a red throw beside a lit fireplace. Wood-paneled walls, leafy plants, warm ambience.

We've made updates along the way, but always with the era in mind. We've tried to stay true to the spirit of late modernism and 1970s styling—the warm reds, oranges, and yellows feel right at home here, and it plays perfectly with all the greenery we've brought in (we are, unquestionably, a plant family). Nearly all of our furniture, lighting fixtures, and decor are sourced from Facebook Marketplace or local thrift shops and flea markets.


I always tell my clients that the home that becomes theirs is the one that's meant to be theirs. That's no more evident than in our "3rd time's the charm" Farmington home.


You can follow along to see more Ron-Molen properties and other cool mid-century designed Utah listings on my social media account @midmodutah.


Cozy living area split view: left, orange dining set with lush plants; right, woman with dogs on sofa by wooden wall, brick fireplace lit.

Cozy living room with a brick fireplace, warm tones, and wooden paneling. White couch with pillows, plants, and modern chandeliers.

Mid-century living room with piano, art, and lush plants. White chairs with orange cushions face a wooden table, creating a cozy vibe.
Modern bathroom image split into vanity and shower views. Features wood accents, brass fixtures, green tiles, and warm lighting.
Cozy bedroom with a wooden bed, mustard pillow, rust blanket, and a woven wall hanging. A dresser with a mirror and plants adds warmth.
Cozy bedroom with a loft bed, white walls, and warm lighting. Art on the walls, bright orange pillows, and a mustard throw add color.
Mid-century modern living room with a brown lounge chair, orange dining chairs, houseplants, brick fireplace, and vibrant wall art. Cozy ambiance.
Mid-century modern room with circular table, black chairs, plants, and orange artwork. Shelves hold books and decor. Warm, cozy vibe.

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