Brandy McLain Featured Guest on Mid Mod Remodel Podcast

Co-Founder Brandy McLain was honored to be a returning featured guest on Della Hansmann’s ‘Mid Mod Remodel’ Podcast. Hansmann draws from her architecture background to offer clients and followers advice on how to update their mid century homes to match modern lifestyles.

In this episode, Brandy and Della discuss the history of numbers, how to select the right size numbers, and how to incorporate house numbers into your landscape design. 

The History of House Numbers

“With the rapid expansion of cities during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century, house numbering became essential for city planning, postal delivery, and emergency services.”

While the use of house numbers dates back to ancient times, it was the rise of the postal system and increasing volume of mail in the 19th century that led to the development of modern house numbering systems. Today, house numbering is a global standard, though methods and systems vary by country and region. Essential markers of modern life, house numbers play a crucial role in organization, navigation, and emergency services, while also offering opportunities for personal expression and design.

Determining the Appropriate Size Address Numbers

Brandy discusses important considerations when deciding what size house numbers to choose, the most important being visibility. Your house numbers should be clearly visible from the street for both guests and emergency responders. 

For bolder looks or greater viewing distances, choose 8 inch or 12 inch numbers.  

If you’re tight on space, consider a vertical orientation or a personalized plaque.⁠ Be sure to measure your installation area both horizontally and vertically to help determine the appropriate size and orientation. Last but not least, be sure to check with your HOA and/or municipality for any size requirements or restrictions.⁠

Photo credit, Left | Sunny Skies Media

Incorporating House Numbers into Landscape Design

Address numbers are not only functional, but also offer opportunities for personal expression of style and design elements to your home’s exterior. Brandy shares her design expertise and discusses some creative ways to integrate house numbers into your landscaping design:

• Landscape walls. Landscape walls are perfect for providing a prominent place to display house numbers. Use contrasting colors to make the numbers stand out against the wall material. For example, choose a darker finish for a concrete wall to create a striking visual. 
• Mid Century Privacy Screens. Choose a bold, modern font to complement the horizontal lines or geometric patterns indicative of mid century style.
• Mailboxes and curbs. Make your mailbox a focal point by adding stylish, bold house number deals. Use a curb stencil that matches the font of your house numbers to paint your address numbers on the curb in front of your home.
• Posts. Consider adding a smaller, matching set of numbers on a post near your driveway or street.
• Planters. Planter boxes near your front door or walkway offer a creative way to display your house numbers while also showcasing a landscaping element.

Listen to this episode and learn more about the history of house numbers, proper size, and stylish ways to incorporate them into your landscape design. Available anywhere you stream your podcasts.

Listen now on Apple or Spotify.

Follow Della and her work @midmodmidwest on Instagram for insights, knowledge, and tips on updating mid century homeownership, including helpful homeowner clinics.

 Della Hansmann, 6" Palm Springs, matte brass