Art of Mid-Century Modern
Mid-Century Modern emerged in the mid-1940s to the late 1960s, a period of significant social, technological, and cultural changes following World War II.
Post-war housing boom. After World War II, there was a sense of optimism and progress in Western societies. This optimism influenced design trends, leading to a departure from the austerity of wartime and a focus on innovation and modernization. The Bauhaus Movement. The Bauhaus school had a profound impact on Mid-Century Modern. Its principles emphasized art, craft, and technology, as well as the use of simple geometric forms and functional design. Scandinavian design. Scandinavian countries also played a significant role in shaping Mid-Century Modern with simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship. Technological Advances. Advances in manufacturing and materials during the mid-20th century contributed to new design possibilities. Materials such as molded plywood, fiberglass, and plastic became increasingly available and affordable, allowing designers to create innovative and iconic furniture pieces.
Today Mid-Century Modern continues to influence architects, designers, and homeowners. Its principles have been adapted and reinterpreted in various design movements, from Scandinavian design to Urban loft leaving. Here are 7 key features to help you transform your dream home into iconic Mid-Century Modern:
Clean Lines & Minimalism
Mid-Century Modern design is characterized by clean, uncluttered lines and a minimalist approach. Flat or low-pitched roofs, post-and-beam construction, and simple geometric shapes in furniture are common architectural features.
Ya-Home Mid-Century Accent Chair in Soft PU Leather, Set of 2
With 100% positive feedback, this brown retro set is built according to the curve of the human body. Made with a high-elasticity natural sponge & metal frame, it’ll withstand the test of time.
Plank+Beam 36” Mid-Century Wood Coffee Table, Black
Crafted with precision in natural pine wood, this sleek Mid-Century coffee table is perfect for small spaces.
MINKA-AIRE Light Wave 52” Ceiling Fan, Distressed Koa
This ceiling fan is inspired by the ocean's graceful & tubular wave formations. Brand says it’s conveniently quiet with a 3-speed reversible motor, saving energy costs. Requires Bond hub BD-1000 (sold separately) to work with Amazon Alexa or Google Home.
Functionality & Practicality
Functionality is paramount in Mid-Century Modern. Furniture pieces are designed with a purpose in mind, and form follows function. This emphasis on practicality extends to architectural layouts, with open floor plans, cozy seating areas, large windows, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.
POLY & BARK Girona 88” Italian Leather Couch, Cognac Tan
This forever 3-seater brown super comfy sofa features a tailored tufted seat back & arms, sturdy corner-blocked wood frame with high-density foam & feather-down topper on seating, upholstered in genuine Italian leather.
SAFAVIEH 6 Ft x 6.9 Ft Cowhide, Black & White
You can’t complete your Mid-Century decor without a classic black & white cowhide rug!
Stadler Form Eco-Friendly Bamboo 3-Speed Fan, 14.8” H
With its excellent bamboo ring, this best-selling floor fan provides individual cooling. Whether you want a light breeze or a refreshing wind, Ventilator Otto moves air all over the room.
Natural Materials
Mid-Century Modern embraces the use of natural materials such as wood, leather, metal, and stone. Teak, rosewood, and walnut are commonly used for furniture, while materials like chrome and stainless steel add sleek accents.
SAYGOER Black Small “Egg” Coffee Table
You’ll need this iconic “Egg” coffee table in your Mid-Century Modern decor. With a unique triangle design, it’s ideal for small spaces. The table is made of engineered wood & solid metal legs for stability & durability.
O’Bright LED Dimmable Floor Lamp, Antique Brass, Gold
Unlike most floor lamps this LED pharmacy lamp has all the functions: Adjustable height from 47” to 55”, swivel head, & 360° swing arms.
Organic Shapes & Textures
Despite its clean lines, Mid-Century Modern also incorporates organic shapes and textures inspired by nature. Curved forms, tapered legs, and asymmetrical compositions add visual interest and warmth to spaces.
Elepbear 31.5" Round Tulip Dining Table
A defining piece of Mid-Century Modern. The minimalist silhouette of the iconic Tulip table is complemented by its organic shape with a contemporary twist. It’s made with a chip-resistant smooth MDF tabletop for an easy clean-up.
Furmax Mid-Century Plastic Chairs, Set of 4
These top-rated (with over 9,000 reviews) retro dining chairs are perfect for minimalist decor. They’re built with molded plastic, real wood, & metal connectors, & the best part is, they’re under $80!
Qufute Orange Glass Dome 1-Light Pendant
This lovely Mid-Century pendant (11” D) is made of brushed brass with an orange glass shade for a soft, diffused light, providing comfortable & sufficient lighting. It’s fully dimmable & has an adjustable cord.
Bold Colors & Patterns
While Mid-Century Modern interiors often feature neutral color palettes, bold accent colors, and patterns are also prevalent. Vibrant hues like mustard yellow, turquoise, and orange inject personality into spaces, while geometric patterns and abstract motifs add visual dynamism.
SIMPLIHOME Draper 60” Mid-Century Wood TV Stand, Teak Brown
Just imagine the focal point this statement Mid-Century TV stand can create in your living room! It’s crafted of wood & hand-finished in classic rich teak brown with protective lacquer to accentuate & highlight the grain.
Camaflexi Mid-Century Coffee Table, Castanho
Crafted of natural pine wood, this iconic Cloud-shaped Mid-Century Modern coffee table will instantly transform your room. Features four angled legs for support & stability.
ELUCHANG Mid-Century Armchairs, Gray Linen, Set of 2
The best things in life come in pairs! Enjoy these top-rated cute retro chairs upgraded with 4 metal springs & plush foam padding for the best comfort. They’re upholstered in skin-friendly & durable linen.
Iconic Furniture Pieces
Mid-Century Modern is synonymous with iconic furniture pieces that have stood the test of time. Designs by luminaries such as Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, and Arne Jacobsen include classics like the Eames Lounge Chair, Tulip Table, and Egg Chair.
Eames Lounge Chair Replica, Black Leather
Eames Lounge chair is designed based on human engineering. It’s crafted from Palisander wood & genuine leather with a thicker sponge filling. With a 15° tilt angle & spacious seating, this iconic chair provides maximum comfort.
Integration of Nature
Mid-Century Modern celebrates the beauty of nature, both in its use of natural materials and its integration of outdoor spaces. Floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, and expansive decks or patios blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.
Yaheetech Set of 2 PU Leather Armchairs, Retro
Whether you want to cuddle by the fireplace or use it as a comfy bedroom chair, this top-rated brown Mid-Century chair set will serve all purposes. Crafted from wood, metal, & resilient foam fill, it’s oversized enough to sink into even with your legs crossed.
Favorite Garden 44” Portable Ethanol Fireplace
This black triangular fire pit is made of high-temperature resistant metal & wood tripods, suitable for indoor & outdoor. It’s smoke-free & dust-free, requires no ventilation or cleaning, & is very safe & reliable to use.
POLY & BARK Denver Italian Leather Ottoman in Cognac Tan
It’s always in the details! Brown leather will scuff & develop into a beautiful vintage patina with use. Each hide is unique & varies in depth of color. It’s built with rubberwood & high-density foam with fiber & feather-down blend.
