Mid-century modern is based around clean lines, organic curves and marrying different materials. The style was born from the economic changes that started after World War II and lasted from the mid-1930’s to the mid-1960’s. The minimalist style focused on function over elaborate detailing, which was especially important because of the limited resources due to World War II. However, because of mid-century modern timeless quality, it still has broad appeal.
What is Mid-Century Modern Design?
Mid-century modern furniture is a combination of sleek lines with curvaceous silhouettes. It has a bright, punchy color palette, geometric prints and many mid-century modern furniture designers remain household names.
Mid-Century Modern Furniture
- Mid-century modern furniture can be easily identified by futuristic shapes, blending swooping lines with straight pencil lines.
- Mid-century modern furniture incorporates plastic, as well as metal, vinyl and lucite.
- Several notable mid-century modern furniture designers still have recognizable names and continue to inspire similar furniture pieces, including:
- Ray and Charles Eames, known for the Shell Chair and the Eames Lounger
- Eero Saarinen designed the iconic Tulip Table and Womb Chair
- Arne Jacobsen designed the Egg Chair
Mid-Century Modern Colors
- Mid-century modern style often features solid, bright colors in durable wool and woven fabrics to balance the wood foundation. Geometric black and white is also prevalent.
Mid-Century Modern Accents
- Art and pillows in graphic designs and patterns are prevalent in mid-century modern design. So are ceramic vases, brass accessories and various tones of wood
How to Create a Mid-Century Modern Space
Mid-century modern accents are an excellent way to incorporate this retro style into your home while also keeping it from looking like a 1960’s time warp. For example, an Eames chair in a transitional room or wishbone chairs in a traditional dining room are excellent ways to bring a mid-century modern influence to a space.
In mid-century modern home design, form typically follows function, so accenting the room with functional items such as trays, coat hooks and clocks contributes to a mid-century modern aesthetic.
Where to Shop for Mid-Century Modern Decor Pieces
In a mid-century modern home, form follows function. Below are tried-and-true retailers that have an affinity for mid-century modern home decor.
- Herman Miller is synonymous with modern furniture. Working with legendary designers George Nelson and Charles and Ray Eames, the company produced pieces that would become classics of industrial design. The 100-year-old company continues to place great importance on design.
- Knoll has been recognized for creating modern furniture that inspires, evolves and endures. Steeped in the history of modernism, it features classic collections from mid-century modern designers such as Saarinen, Mies van der Rohe, Florence Knoll and more.
- West Elm offers modern furniture and home decor featuring inspiring designs and colors.
If you’re looking to create a mid-century modern space, follow this guide to create a home designed around sleek lines, curvy silhouettes, bright colors and geometric prints.
