This carefully planned preservation was all about continuity-allowing a home’s story to unfold without erasing its past.
In May of 2019, Amy Raymer, current board president of the Nevada Preservation Foundation purchased a 1954 traditional ranch home in the John S. Park neighborhood in downtown Las Vegas and worked to bring back the midcentury elements that had been lost through renovations to the property over the years.
The John S Park neighborhood contains some of the oldest homes in Las Vegas with homes dating back as early as 1939. Named for John S Park, one of the town’s early pioneers who arrived here in 1905 and became owner of the First State Bank. The neighborhood is known for a charming mix of architectural styles as newcomers to Las Vegas would build homes reminiscent of their roots.
Starting in the kitchen, Raymer removed the sad 1980s renovation and sourced a 1955 Youngstown metal kitchen from an antiques dealer in Sacramento, who also included the 1948 Frigidaire refrigerator and 1961 Frigidaire Flair stove in the sale—which are both used daily!
The Cath Kidston “Continental Cowboy” print vinyl composite tile (VCT) was sourced from the UK and ties together with cowboy and “old West” planters, lunchboxes, cookie jars, decanters, dishware, and other antiques that add a playful and kitschy throwback to the 1950s.
The large picture window at the front of the house gives visitors a peek into midcentury with a 1964 Brunswick Gold Crown pool table and 1951 AMi jukebox, which connects to a seating area with embossed vinyl loveseats and a 1950’s white and red Formica and chrome dining table with matching vinyl chairs. Visitors can enjoy recreation, conversation, and dining all in one open space!
The goal wasn’t to create a perfect facsimile of a midcentury-era home, but rather to be authentic to the era while creating a sense of nostalgia and whimsy.
In the “pink” living room area, guests can help themselves to a soda from the 1962 Dr. Pepper vending machine as they pick out a record from Raymer’s extensive vinyl collection to play on one of her four vintage turn tables. The pink and white VCT flooring has been sealed with a polyurethane-based floor sealant which protects the floor from damage and removes the ongoing waxing that traditional VCT requires.
This thoughtfully restored 1954 ranch demonstrates how salvaged materials, period-correct appliances, and architectural integrity can revive a mid-century home with authenticity and purpose. Blending preservation, personality, and regional character, the home offers readers an inspiring example of how to honor original design while creating a vibrant, livable space rooted in history.
Using original and period specific materials with vintage furniture and ephemera ensures the house is a delight for visitors who feel transported back in time.
Maintaining original character strengthens the architectural fabric of the neighborhood.
The Neveda Preservation Foundation’s primary goal is to preserve and revitalize historic buildings, communities and places in Las Vegas and around the great state of Nevada.
To learn more about the Foundation visit their website Neveda Preservation Foundation and on Instagram at NVPreservation.
