The Timeless Charm of Mid-Century Modern Style

When it comes to interior design, certain styles have come and gone, while others have remained popular for decades. One of these timeless styles is mid-century modern, a design aesthetic that emerged in the mid-20th century and continues to inspire designers and homeowners today.

Mid-century modern is characterized by a clean, minimalist approach to design, with a focus on functionality and simplicity. The style is known for its use of natural materials, such as wood, leather, and stone, and its iconic furniture designs, such as the Eames Lounge Chair and the Saarinen Tulip Table.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history and key design elements of mid-century modern, as well as its enduring appeal and how you can incorporate it into your own home.

The History of Mid-Century Modern Style

The mid-century modern style emerged in the United States in the 1940s and 1950s, a time of post-war optimism and a desire for simplicity and functionality. The demand for modern, affordable homes created a market for furniture and decor that was both functional and beautiful.

The style was heavily influenced by the Bauhaus school of design, which emphasized the use of new materials and industrial production techniques to create simple, functional designs. Mid-century modern design became popular for its simplicity, clean lines, and affordability, and it remains a popular design style today.

Influences of the mid-century modern aesthetic included:

1. Modernism

At its core, the mid-century modern aesthetic was inspired by the modernist movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and which sought to create designs that were functional, minimal, and stripped of unnecessary ornamentation. This approach to design was a response to the ornate and decorative styles that dominated in the early 20th century, such as Art Nouveau and Art Deco.

2. Scandinavian Design

Another key influence on the mid-century modern aesthetic was Scandinavian design, which emerged in the 1930s and 1940s.

• Scandinavian design and mid-century modern design shared many of the same values and philosophies. Both design styles prioritized simplicity, functionality, and clean lines. They also emphasized the use of natural materials and a respect for the environment.
  
• the influence of Scandinavian designers and architects, such as Alvar Aalto and Arne Jacobsen, whose work was showcased in exhibitions and publications that were widely distributed and admired by designers and architects around the world.
  
• the innovative use of materials, such as laminated wood, molded plywood, and bent steel. These materials allowed for new forms and shapes in furniture and lighting design, which were integrated into mid-century modern design.
  
• the popularity of Scandinavian design in the United States through brands such as Royal Copenhagen and George Jensen.
  

3. Technology and Innovation

The post-war era was a time of significant technological innovation, and this had a profound impact on design. Advances in manufacturing and new materials such as plastic allowed designers to create furniture and lighting that was lighter, more affordable, and more accessible to a wider audience.

• Molded Plywood – This technique involved pressing thin layers of wood veneer together with adhesive to create strong, lightweight forms that could be shaped into complex curves and angles. The technique was pioneered by the American designer Charles Eames, who used it to create a range of iconic furniture designs, including the famous Eames lounge chair and ottoman. Molded plywood allowed designers to create forms that were previously impossible, and opened up new possibilities for furniture design. The technique was also more efficient and cost-effective than traditional woodworking techniques, making it a popular choice for mass-produced furniture.

• Injection Molding – Another key innovation of the mid-century modern era was injection molding, a technique that allowed designers to create complex, three-dimensional forms from plastic. Injection molding involves melting plastic pellets and injecting them into a mold under high pressure, creating a precise and consistent form. Injection molding was used to create a range of mid-century modern designs, including chairs, lamps, and decorative objects. The technique allowed designers to create forms that were both lightweight and durable, and opened up new possibilities for the use of plastic in furniture design.

• Tubular Steel – This technique involved bending and welding steel tubing to create lightweight, strong frames for furniture and lighting designs. The technique was pioneered by the German architect and designer Marcel Breuer, who used it to create a range of iconic furniture designs, including the Wassily chair. Tubular steel allowed designers to create forms that were both strong and lightweight, and opened up new possibilities for furniture and lighting design. The technique was also cost-effective and efficient, making it a popular choice for mass-produced designs.
  

4. Nature and emphasis on the human experience

The mid-century modern era was characterized by a desire to create designs that were both modern and natural. Many designers of the era sought to incorporate natural materials and textures into their designs, in order to create a sense of warmth and comfort that was often lacking in modernist design.

• Wood – Wood was used in a variety of ways in mid-century modern design, from the molded plywood of Charles and Ray Eames which were designed to mimic the curves of the human body to the simple, unadorned frames of Hans Wegner’s chairs. Many designers of the era favored the use of light-colored woods, such as ash and birch, which were prized for their natural beauty and durability. Designs incorporated the natural grain and texture of the wood, often using it to create patterns or decorative details.

• Leather – Leather was used in a variety of ways in mid-century modern design, from the iconic Barcelona chair by Mies van der Rohe to the simple leather straps of George Nelson’s Marshmallow sofa. Leather was often used to create a sense of luxury and comfort, and was often paired with other natural materials such as wood and metal. Many designers of the era favored the use of high-quality leather, which was prized for its durability and softness.

• Stone – Although less commonly used than wood or leather, many designers of the era favored the use of natural stone, such as marble or granite, which was prized for its durability and beauty, to create a sense of solidity and permanence. It was often paired with other natural materials, such as wood or leather, to create a sense of balance and harmony.

5. Space Exploration

Finally, the mid-century modern aesthetic was also influenced by the Space Race and the optimism and excitement that surrounded space exploration in the 1950s and 1960s. This can be seen in the futuristic designs of mid-century modern lighting, which often featured sleek, streamlined, space-inspired shapes and a focus on new and innovative materials.

Incorporating Mid-Century Modern into Your Home

If you’re looking to incorporate the mid-century modern style into your own home, there are several ways to do so. Here are some ideas:

1. Furniture

Invest in some key mid-century modern furniture pieces that are not only beautiful but also functional and comfortable. Some of the most iconic mid-century modern furniture designs include the Eames Lounge Chair, the Saarinen Tulip Table, and the Noguchi Coffee Table. These designs are still popular today and have become synonymous with the mid-century modern style.

Here is a collection of some of our favourite mid-century furniture finds.

2. Color Palette

Incorporate a bold, vibrant color palette into your space, using shades such as mustard yellow, avocado green, and burnt orange. You can do this through your choice of furniture, accessories, or even a statement wall. Don’t be afraid to mix and match – the style is all about creating a cohesive, harmonious look through the use of different shapes, textures, and colors.

The Benjamin Moore paint mid-century modern pain palette combines organic, warm colors and sleek, industrial white and blue-gray hues with pops of red:

3. Natural Materials

Use natural materials such as wood and stone as architectural elements:

• Exposed wooden beams were a common feature of mid-century modern interiors. They were often used to create an open, airy feeling, and to add visual interest to a room. Exposed beams were typically left natural, without any stain or paint, in order to showcase the natural beauty of the wood.

• Wooden paneling was another common feature of mid-century modern interiors. Paneling was often used to create a sense of warmth and texture, and to add visual interest to a room. It was typically left natural, although it could be stained or painted to match the overall color scheme of the room.

• Wooden screens were another common feature of mid-century modern interiors. They were often used to divide a room into separate areas, or to provide privacy without completely closing off a space. Screens were typically made of natural wood, and often featured intricate patterns or designs that added visual interest to a room.

• Wooden stairs were also a common feature of mid-century modern interiors. They were often designed to be both functional and beautiful, with clean lines and simple, understated details. Wooden stairs were typically left natural, although they could be stained or painted to match the overall color scheme of the room.
  
• Stone accent walls were a popular feature in mid-century modern interiors, particularly in living rooms and bedrooms. They were often used to create a focal point in a room and to add a sense of texture and warmth. Stones like travertine, marble, and slate were common choices, and the stones were typically left in their natural state, with minimal treatment or finishes.
  
• Stone fireplaces were another common feature in mid-century modern interiors. They were often designed to be both functional and visually striking, with simple, clean lines that complemented the overall aesthetic of the space. Stones like limestone and granite were popular choices, and the stones were typically left in their natural state or with a minimal finish.
  
• Stone flooring was also a popular choice in mid-century modern interiors, particularly in entryways and hallways. Stones like terrazzo and slate were commonly used, and the stones were often left in their natural state or polished to a high sheen. Stone flooring added a sense of durability and permanence to a space, while also providing a unique visual element.
  
• Stone countertops were a common feature in mid-century modern kitchens and bathrooms. Stones like granite, marble, and quartzite were popular choices, and the stones were typically left in their natural state or with a polished finish. Stone countertops added a sense of luxury and sophistication to a space, while also providing a practical and durable surface for daily use.
  

4. Lighting

Lighting is an important element of mid-century modern design. Look for fixtures that have a minimalist, streamlined appearance, such as a Sputnik chandelier or a George Nelson pendant lamp.

5. Artwork

Incorporate mid-century modern artwork into your space, such as a print by Andy Warhol or a sculpture by Isamu Noguchi. These pieces will add interest and a pop of color to your walls.

Retailers that Specialize in Mid-Century Modern Furniture, Lighting, and Decor

Whether you’re looking to outfit your entire home in mid-century modern furniture and decor, or simply add a few key pieces to your existing decor, there are plenty of retailers that specialize in mid-century modern design. From furniture and lighting to home decor and accessories, these retailers offer a range of options to suit any style and budget:

1. Design Within Reach

Design Within Reach is a popular retailer that offers a wide range of mid-century modern furniture and lighting. They carry pieces from many of the top mid-century modern designers, including Eames, Saarinen, and Nelson. Design Within Reach also offers a range of home decor and accessories to complement your mid-century modern furniture.

2. Joybird

Joybird is a furniture retailer that specializes in mid-century modern and retro-inspired designs. They offer a range of furniture pieces, from sofas and chairs to coffee tables and credenzas. Joybird also offers custom upholstery options, so you can choose the perfect fabric or leather for your furniture.

3. West Elm

West Elm is a well-known retailer that offers a mix of modern and mid-century modern furniture and decor. They offer a range of furniture pieces, from sofas and chairs to dining tables and bookcases. West Elm also carries a range of home decor and accessories to complete your mid-century modern look.

4. Lumens

Lumens is a lighting retailer that specializes in modern and contemporary lighting designs. They carry a wide range of mid-century modern lighting pieces, including pendant lights, table lamps, and floor lamps. Lumens also offers free shipping on many of their products, making it a convenient option for online shopping.

5. CB2

CB2 is a furniture and home decor retailer that offers a mix of modern and mid-century modern designs. They offer a range of furniture pieces, from sofas and chairs to dining tables and desks. CB2 also carries a range of home decor and accessories to help you create a cohesive mid-century modern look.

6. 1stdibs

1stdibs is an online marketplace that specializes in high-end vintage and antique furniture, lighting, and decor. They offer a range of mid-century modern pieces from top designers, including Eames, Noguchi, and Wegner. While 1stdibs can be more expensive than other retailers, it’s a great place to find rare and unique mid-century modern pieces.

Mid-century modern is a design style that has stood the test of time, and for good reason. Its clean lines, natural materials, bold colors, and iconic furniture designs continue to inspire designers and homeowners today. Whether you’re looking to incorporate mid-century modern into your entire home or just add a few key pieces to your existing décor, this style is a timeless and classic choice. So why not embrace the mid-century modern aesthetic and add a touch of retro charm to your space?