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10 Boise Businesses Keeping the Mid-Century Modern Legacy Alive

Updated: 3 hours ago

Boise, Idaho, is home to one of the most intact collections of mid-century modern homes in the Pacific Northwest, with over 11,000 residences built between the late 1940s and early 1970s. But this legacy extends far beyond architecture. The city’s mid-century renaissance is powered by a diverse and growing network of local businesses, each contributing to the preservation, celebration, and evolution of modernist design principles in meaningful ways.


From the restoration-savvy real estate firms representing Boise’s most iconic MCM neighborhoods to the interior design studios skilled in blending postwar aesthetics with contemporary livability, these businesses aren’t riding a trend—they’re sustaining a cultural legacy. Organizations like the Garden City Placemaking Fund are embedding MCM values into public art and urban renewal, while studios like Visionkit capture the spirit of the era through intentional visual storytelling. Even Boise’s festival scene, with institutions like Treefort Music Fest, embraces a modernist ethos of innovation, accessibility, and creative community-building.


Across sectors—real estate, design, food, media, and community development—Boise’s mid-century modern momentum is tangible. These ten businesses stand out for their dedication to craft, historical awareness, and a deep understanding that mid-century modernism was never just about style. It was, and is, a way of living.






Want to learn more about what Boise has to offer? Explore the Top 5: Mid-Century Homes, Neighborhoods, and Real Estate in Boise, Idaho.




Mid-Century Furniture and Home Decor



Monke Haus • Mid-Century Furniture Design and Restoration


At Monke Haus, every piece is crafted by hand with passion, devotion, and an unwavering belief that the natural beauty of wood and the subtle imperfections of handmade craftsmanship create perfectly unique products.


Founder Patrick Irvin’s deep appreciation for heirloom-quality furniture stems from his childhood, inspired by his great-grandparents' Danish-modern pieces. Their timeless, minimalist designs influenced the sleek, clean lines that define his work today.


Monke Haus rejects the “throw-away” culture of modern home furnishings, focusing on quality over quantity. Each creation reflects the distinct character of its materials, with subtle build variations and natural wood grain patterns that make every piece truly one-of-a-kind, all while maintaining a minimal ecological footprint. Monke Haus creates lasting legacies designed to be passed down for generations.



Curious to learn more? Dive deeper into Patrick’s incredible craftsmanship: MonkeHaus – Distinguished Woodworking and Mid-Century Furniture Restoration.











Trust Modern • Authentic Vintage and Mid-Century Furniture


Founded by Johnny Ayala, Trust Modern is Boise’s go-to destination for authentic vintage furniture with a distinct focus on mid-century modern design. With a carefully curated selection of iconic pieces from the 1950s through the 1970s, Trust Modern celebrates timeless aesthetics defined by clean lines, bold forms, and lasting craftsmanship.


Johnny’s passion for design and deep understanding of mid-century style are evident in every piece featured in the showroom. From statement-making credenzas and minimalist dining sets to retro-inspired decor, Trust Modern offers thoughtfully selected items that balance form, function, and history.


More than just a furniture shop, Trust Modern is a space where design enthusiasts can rediscover the beauty of a classic era while adding a touch of mid-century authenticity to their homes and spaces. Through a commitment to quality and a keen eye for standout pieces, Johnny ensures that Trust Modern continues to set the standard for vintage style in Boise and beyond.








Boise Vintage • Authentic Vintage Furniture, Collectibles and Decor


Boise Vintage is a treasure trove for mid-century modern enthusiasts, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of furniture, décor, and collectibles from the 1950s and 1960s. Their downtown showroom on Jefferson Street is a haven for design lovers seeking authentic pieces that combine form and function with timeless style.


Specializing in iconic mid-century designs, Boise Vintage features everything from sleek teak dining sets and retro-inspired sofas to statement lighting fixtures and unique home accents. Each piece is carefully selected for its craftsmanship, character, and ability to transform living spaces into works of art.


Open on weekends, Boise Vintage invites visitors to explore a world where vintage charm meets modern living. With a reputation for quality, authenticity, and personalized service, they’ve become a beloved destination for collectors, homeowners, and anyone looking to add a touch of mid-century magic to their home.







Howard Built   • Handmade Furniture, Cabinets, and Woodworking


Founded by master craftsman Ty Howard, Howard Built specializes in custom, handcrafted furniture made from premium wood and steel. With a design philosophy rooted in modern minimalism and timeless quality, Ty creates functional art that transforms living spaces into unique environments.


Each piece from Howard Built is thoughtfully designed, meticulously crafted, and built to last. From sleek dining tables and custom-built credenzas to industrial-inspired shelving and statement-making coffee tables, every project reflects Ty’s passion for precision and authenticity.


Working out of his Boise-based workshop, Ty combines traditional woodworking techniques with modern design sensibilities, producing furniture that balances simplicity, strength, and elegance. His love for natural materials and attention to detail ensure that every item is both visually striking and built to withstand the test of time.


Whether collaborating on a custom commission or creating ready-made designs, Ty approaches every project with the same level of dedication and craftsmanship that has made Howard Built LLC a trusted name in the custom furniture industry. For those seeking custom pieces that merge modern design with artisan craftsmanship, Howard Built is where vision becomes reality.







Real Estate Brokerages and Real Estate Agents



Mid-Century Homes by Anthology • Mid-Century Real Estate Experts


Mid-Century Homes by Anthology serves as a passionate advocate for preserving and celebrating the architectural beauty of mid-century modern homes. Specializing in purchasing, selling, and restoring mid-century properties, the agency connects design enthusiasts with homes that reflect the distinctive style, craftsmanship, and innovation of the 1950s and 1960s.


What sets Mid-Century Homes by Anthology apart is its unwavering commitment to architectural preservation. Every transaction goes beyond the sale to safeguard the unique features that define these iconic homes: expansive windows, open floor plans, exposed beams, and thoughtful indoor-outdoor connections.


The agency’s own historic office is a stunning nod to mid-century design, embodying the very aesthetic they work to preserve. Stepping into their space feels like walking into a living museum of mid-century modern architecture, offering clients an immersive design experience that reflects their shared passion for timeless style.


Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or restore a mid-century property, Mid-Century Homes by Anthology offers unmatched expertise, personalized service, and a deep respect for design history. They ensure that every home they touch continues to inspire future generations.












Art and Creative Placemaking



Visionkit Studio • Stills, Motion Picture, and Creative Direction


At Visionkit Studio, founders Aaron Rodriguez and Matthew Wordell bring stories to life through stills, video, and animation, crafting visually stunning narratives built on innovation, collaboration, and creativity. Their unique approach invites clients to become co-creators in the creative process, ensuring that every project feels personal, authentic, and powerfully original.


Aaron and Matthew are deeply committed to nurturing Boise’s creative community by mentoring emerging talent, hosting collaborative events, and partnering with artists across disciplines. They believe that when artists support one another, creative possibilities expand, and that is when the truly extraordinary work happens.


Their studio itself is a masterpiece of intentional design, as you can see. Carefully curated with an emphasis on mid-century modern aesthetics, the space reflects their shared love of artistic expression and their attention to the details. Every detail, from the furnishings to the lighting, contributes to an inspiring environment where art and design converge.



Did we pique your interest? Explore the extraordinary work happening at Visionkit Studio: Visionkit– An Idaho Creative Studio Where Creativity Meets Collaboration.









Garden City Placemaking Fund   • Collaborative Art Opportunities, Artist Support, and Creative Partnerships


In partnership with Surel’s Place, the Garden City Placemaking Fund (GCPF) champions local artists, emerging creators, and POC artists by offering paid public art opportunities designed to inspire, engage, and transform the community. Their mission is to keep art at the heart of the Treasure Valley’s evolving cultural identity while fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where creativity can thrive.

GCPF empowers artists to reimagine public spaces while leaving a lasting creative impact through community-driven projects, large-scale murals, and site-specific installations. Their initiatives celebrate diverse voices, encourage artistic collaboration, and create opportunities for artists to grow professionally through mentorship, funding, and visibility.



Want to get involved with the Garden City Placemaking Fund? Learn more: The Garden City Placemaking Fund – Cultivating Creativity and Supporting the Arts in Boise and Beyond.







Food and Dining


Stardust • A Glamorous, Mid-Century Inspired Restaurant in the Heart of Downtown


Stardust has taken the glamorous mid-century modern theme from our interior design right into their kitchen. Our Executive Chef, Robby DeBolt has taken a Neo-classic approach to traditional mid-century dishes on both our brunch and "After 3" menus. Their menu is exquisite, evolving, and truly one of a kind in Boise.








Experiences and Travel Destinations




Nestled in the heart of downtown Boise, the Treefort Music Fest is more than just a music festival—it’s a cultural phenomenon that bridges the gap between eras. While its eclectic lineup and diverse programming make it a hotspot for indie music lovers, art enthusiasts, and culinary adventurers, the festival also carries a unique connection to mid-century modern design and spirit, making it a standout celebration of Boise’s creative identity.



Interested in exploring all Treefort has to offer? Continue reading: Treefort Festival: A Modern Celebration of the Mid-Century Spirit in Boise's City of Trees.



The Record Exchange   • Boise Record and Music Store


Since its founding in 1977, The Record Exchange has been more than just a music store—it’s a Boise institution. Located in the heart of downtown, this beloved shop has grown into Idaho's largest independent record store, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for music lovers of all ages. But beyond its role as a treasure trove for vinyl enthusiasts, The Record Exchange plays a vital part in keeping the spirit of the mid-century era alive.





These businesses play a vital role in preserving Boise's mid-century modern legacy through expert furniture curation, custom craftsmanship, real estate expertise, and creative advocacy. Their passion ensures that the timeless design, bold aesthetics, and architectural integrity of this iconic era continue to inspire future generations.


Do you know a Boise-based business keeping mid-century modern design alive that deserves the spotlight? Drop their name in the comments—we’d love to hear from you and celebrate the creative forces shaping our city’s vibrant community!

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