Streets of Your Town (ATOM Study Guide)

In the 1950s, pioneering architects such as Robin Boyd, Roy Grounds and Harry Seidler adapted the International style of Modernism for a nation that was ready to embrace new ideas for home design. Through the 1960s and 1970s, these architects continued to adapt these designs for our local culture and lifestyle, developing our own style of Modernism. This 'new' architecture was extremely popular and as a result our suburbs boasted some of the best architecture in the world.

But by the end of the 1970s, things changed. Australians turned their back on these modest homes designed specifically for our needs and climate and embraced featurism – massive street presence and enormous dwellings. The era of the McMansion was born. In this prime-time series, Tim Ross – broadcaster, comedian and aficionado of all things Modernism – tracks the stories of these houses, and gains unprecedented access to these iconic homes to revel in their beauty and consider their currency and legacy in Australia's suburbia.

Curriculum Links:

This study guide is mainly aimed at mid to senior secondary school levels, with relevance to:

• English
• Social and Cultural History
• Media Studies
• Social Studies
• Creative Arts
• Technology and Design Studies
• Cross-curriculum priority (Sustainability)