For living in the present day, three houses influenced by mid-20th-century design.

Philadelphia

$1,175,000

615 W. Hartwell Lane

Taxes: $12,450

Tucked into a secluded setting, this two-level Chestnut Hill home features a living room built over a stream, walls of glass and stone, and plenty of space. There is a handsome new kitchen, a rebuilt master suite with a spa-like bath and walk-in closet, plus four more bedrooms and full baths.

Pros: The ground floor has a party room with a full bar, a hot tub, and French doors leading to the streamside terrace.

Cons: The carport looks like a tight squeeze.

Listing agent: Todd Crittenden, Kurfiss Sotheby's International Realty; 215-756-5901, 215-735-2225.

New Hope

$1,955,000

3241 Comfort Rd.

Taxes: $10,011

Luxuriously renovated three years ago, this one-story home has a pool, outdoor access from nearly every room, and a California feel. Interior features include a two-story foyer, a raised living-room fireplace, and a two-sided fireplace separating the dining room from the den. There are three bedrooms, three baths, and a high-end kitchen with walnut cabinets and a large granite-topped island.

Pros: A poolside guest house with vaulted ceilings and a full bath.

Cons: The vast lawn could be a major project to maintain.

Listing agent: Kevin Steiger, Kurfiss Sotheby's, 215-794-3227.

Marlton

$935,000

6 N. Country Lakes Dr.

Taxes: $24,680

Miami Style is evident in the design of this sunny 5,000-square-foot home, which has a dramatic curved staircase to the second floor, balconies off nearly every room, and a great room with a restaurant-sized full bar. There are three bedrooms and a guest suite, plus a master suite with walk-in closets and a built-in dressing table.

Pros: Set back from the road and screened by mature trees, the home offers a real sense of privacy.

Cons: Some of the decor has a dated, 1980s look.

Listing agent: Di Gibson, Prudential Fox & Roach; 609-654-1888, Ext. 133, or 609-741-3233.