Mid-century modern is a trendy and popular interior design style that pays homage to the designs of the mid-20th century. This style is easy to recognize because of its use of organic shapes, clean lines and neutral colors.
Mid-century modern furniture typically features hairpin legs or thin metal legs, boxy shapes, geometric patterns, and pops of bold colors. It was particularly popular in the 1940s and 1950s, but has recently made a comeback and become very stylish once again.
This style is known for creating a timeless look and bringing a sense of simplicity and serenity to a room. It includes pieces such as sectional sofas, coffee tables, end tables, lighting, and artwork with a focus on natural materials like wood, leather, and metal.
Mid-century modern style can be used in any type of room, from the living room and dining room to the bedroom and beyond. A great way to incorporate this style into your existing decor is to start with a single statement piece, such as an area rug with a bold geometric print or a mid-century modern coffee table.
You can also add in artwork that features a vibrant pop of color, such as a large painting of an abstract design. By adding metal accents such as a mid-century chair and side table, you can tie together the look for a timeless and sophisticated space.
Lastly, small mid-century modern decor pieces like trinket boxes and bookends can be used to add a touch of personality to the room.
What are the elements of modern decor?
The elements of modern decor depend largely on personal preferences, but typically include basic, sleek, and clean design elements that are de-cluttered and monochromatic. Common materials used in modern decor include metals, glass, and molded plastic, often combined with traditional materials like wood and stone.
Modern decor generally features open floor plans, plenty of light, and uncluttered surfaces. Elements like rectangular shapes, sharp angles, and high-gloss finishes add to the modernized aesthetic. Symmetry is also a key element of modern decor.
Furnishings for modern decor include streamlined, low-profile furniture with few details and sleek fabrics. Sofas, chairs, and tables are often constructed with clean lines, minimal embellishment, and monochromatic color schemes.
Rugs and throw pillows are used to add visual interest and color.
Modern art is often used to further the modern look with abstract pieces, geometric shapes, and minimal landscapes. Statement pieces, like wall sculptures and wall hangings, also make an impression in modern decor.
In modern decor, a variety of textures can be updated while keeping the overall look monochromatic. For example, matte walls with a glossy accent wall. Metal finishes, such as steel, also look great in modern decor.
These subtle elements help to create depth and dimension in a room.
How do you decorate a midcentury modern?
Decorating a midcentury modern space can be a fun and rewarding task. To capture the classic look and feel of midcentury modern, the best place to start is with the colors and patterns. Look for colors like earthy browns, sage greens, and sky blues along with bold geometric patterns on items like rugs, curtains, and furniture.
Add texture to create an interesting and balanced look that’s still tasteful. Look for woven accent pillows, thick shag rugs, and wooden chairs and tables. Opt for a more minimalist approach and bring in sculptural pieces like an egg chair or a pop-art coffee table.
Midcentury modern is all about employing the art of “less is more”; use subtle tones and repeat colors throughout the pieces to tie everything together. Then you can accessorize and layer with warm lighting, potted plants, and wall art to make it your own.
What’s the difference between mid century and mid-century modern?
The terms mid-century and mid-century modern are often used interchangeably, however they actually refer to different design styles. Mid-century refers to design elements from the mid-twentieth century that include furniture, home decor, architecture, and more.
This style is inspired by 50s and 60s style and features organic shapes, wooden accents, and bright colors. Mid-century modern, on the other hand, is a style of architecture and design that became popular in the mid-twentieth century.
It is a modernist architectural style defined by open, airy spaces and clean, geometric lines. It also typically incorporates natural materials such as wood, stone, and glass. Mid-century modern also emphasizes functionality in order to free up space and make a home more livable.
Both styles draw from the same period in time, but mid-century modern is more rooted in architecture, while mid-century is focused on furniture and other design elements.
What is considered a mid-century home?
A mid-century home is a style of residential design popularized in the mid-20th century. The distinguishing characteristics of mid-century homes often include open floor plans featuring large windows and natural light, low-slung roof lines, and minimal ornamentation.
Mid-century homes often emphasize functional, uncomplicated design, making the most of natural elements. The style is characterized by minimal, clean lines, and a focus on both form and function. Mid-century designs are often recognizable for their integration of natural materials, such as wood and stone, giving them a timelessly modern appeal.
Many mid-century homes also feature large outdoor space, taking advantage of natural sunlight and air flow. Despite its popularity in the 1950s and ’60s, the mid-century style is still a favorite of many homeowners today, as it features a modern look that can still feel timeless.
Was the Brady Bunch house mid-century modern?
No, the house featured on the iconic 1970s TV series The Brady Bunch was not mid-century modern. It was a traditional two-story house with an exterior that was decorated to look like a California ranch house.
The show’s house was actually a set on the Paramount studio lot and was not a real house. Inside, the house had the typical 1970s California ranch aesthetic, with wood paneling and shag carpeting. The house was very family friendly and, as the show went on, featured some space-age and retro-style touches such as Captain’s chairs, an outdoor swimming pool and bright pops of color.
However, the style of the house was much more representative of the 70s than any specific mid-century modern era.
What are the characteristics of a mid-century home?
Mid-century homes typically feature a minimalist aesthetic, emphasizing open and airy living spaces. The architectural style makes use of large windows and natural light, as well as simple or boldly colored accents.
Other key characteristics include low-pitched roofs, well-defined outdoor spaces, and tall, tapered chimneys. Many mid-century homes feature exposed stone construction, as well as asymmetrical shapes and jutting structures.
Inside, there is typically an emphasis on natural materials such as wood, brick and exposed beams. Bold patterns and chic geometric shapes are popular design features of mid-century homes. The interiors may be decorated with vintage furniture, incorporating curved lines and dramatic shapes.
Additionally, the architecture of a mid-century home often incorporates a backyard, providing ample space for outdoor recreation and gardening.
Is modernism the same as mid-century modern?
No, modernism and mid-century modern are not the same. Modernism is a style of art and design that emerged in the late 19th century that was focused on creating a new way of understanding and engaging with the world.
It was characterized by a rejection of traditional styles, a focus on new forms, and a rejection of accepted social conventions. Mid-century modern, on the other hand, is a style of design that emerged in the 1950s and is characterized by its striking geometry, clean lines, and lack of ornamentation.
While modernism is the philosophical framework on which mid-century modern is based, mid-century modern is distinctive enough to be considered its own style.
Can you mix mid-century modern and traditional furniture?
Yes, you can mix mid-century modern and traditional furniture. One simple way to do this is to select items that have classic lines but provide a modern twist in form, color, and/or material. For instance, you can have a classic wingback armchair in a bold, vibrant color, or you can choose mid-century modern seating with a traditional wood finish.
You could also choose traditional wood pieces with a modern, minimalist finish. Other ideas might include a classic hutch with mid-century flair or a mid-century modern sofa with traditional tufting or patterned upholstery.
If mixing traditional and mid-century furniture is done successfully it can create a unique, eclectic style that blends the best of both worlds.
Is mid-century modern going out of style?
No, mid-century modern is not going out of style. The mid-century modern home aesthetic has gained traction over the years, and continues to be well-liked by many. A recent survey found that 70% of Americans say they still prefer the look and feel of a mid-century modern home.
Additionally, mid-century modern furniture trends remain popular, and the aesthetic is often found in newly built homes today. Through renewed interest in vintage finds, true mid-century items have also become popular once again.
From ceramics to furniture, mid-century modern style pieces are highly collectible and sought after. That’s why mid-century modern will likely never go out of style; as its admirers continue to expand, the aesthetic is here to stay.
