Mid-century modern is a style of furniture characterized by sleek lines and minimalist designs. Commonly associated with the 1950s and ‘60s, mid-century modern cabinets are often made from hardwoods, such as walnut, oak, or mahogany.
These hardwood materials provide durability and beauty, while typically requiring very little maintenance. More recently, softer woods, such as cherry and pine, have also become popular choices for mid-century modern cabinetry.
As a result, these cabinetry materials are commonly used in modern kitchens, with lighter stains or natural wood finishes offering a warm contrast to contemporary surroundings. Regardless of the specific wood chosen, mid-century modern cabinetry typically features clean, timeless designs that make an impact.
What wood is MCM furniture made of?
MCM furniture is typically made of walnutwood, although other woods such as rosewood, teak, cherry, and maple are also used. Walnut wood is often chosen because it is a strong, dense wood with a beautiful reddish-brown finish.
From the 1940s and 50s, walnut was the go-to wood due to its natural qualities, as well as its resistance to shrinking or swelling from temperature or humidity changes. MCM furniture pieces crafted from walnut were given additional protection from the elements by being finished with an added layer of glossy lacquer for added protection.
Vegan leather is also often used to upholster mid-century pieces, making them both sophisticated and comfortable.
What materials are used in mid-century modern?
Mid-century modern design is known for incorporating natural materials such as wood, leather, rattan, teak, stone, and marble. Wood is a common element found in many mid-century pieces, often featuring a striking grain and warm color palette of walnut, cherry, or mahogany.
Leather is a popular material choice for mid-century modern furniture and adds instant sophistication to any space. This leather can range from leather upholstery to leather-wrapped armrests and accents.
Rattan is iconic in mid-century modern design. This woven material is often used in chairs and tables to provide a natural texture in the space.
Teak is also a popular choice in mid-century modern furniture. This type of wood has a natural durable finish, which makes it ideal for tables, chairs, and other furniture pieces.
Stone or marble are also widely used in mid-century modern design, often appearing as tabletops, countertops, and accent pieces. These materials give a space a sophisticated and timeless feel.
All of these natural materials offer a unique and organic aesthetic to mid-century modern design and help to create an inviting and stylish interior.
What Colour wood is mid century?
Mid-century style furniture typically incorporates a range of different wood colors. Many pieces of mid-century furniture feature a dark wood, often walnut, mahogany, or teak. Mid century furniture also often has lighter woods, such as beech, birch, and ash.
Colors can range from light to dark, allowing for pieces to be both light and dark. Due to the versatility of these pieces, mid-century style furniture can fit into a variety of interior design settings.
Finally, painted, laminated, or lacquered furniture also falls into the category of mid-century style, due in part to its modern, angular shapes and muted colors. Ultimately, mid-century style furniture can include a variety of shades and colors, ranging from dark, heavy woods to light, bright colors.
What wood is used in Danish modern furniture?
The type of wood typically used in Danish modern furniture is teak. This type of wood is incredibly durable, providing an attractive look and lasting product. Teak offers a rich grain pattern and attractive reddish-brown tones that blend well with the light, airy forms typical of Danisih modern furniture.
Teak is also resistant to cracking and warping and can last generations with the right care. Other woods used in Danish modern furniture include rosewood, oak, beech, and walnut. Each of these woods provides its own unique traits, from grain pattern and color to durability and strength.
Depending on the style and desired look of the piece of furniture, any of these woods can be beautiful and suitable for Danish modern furniture.
Is oak mid century?
No, oak is not traditionally considered a mid century furniture style. Mid century furniture styles traditionally feature materials such as bent plywood, tubular steel, and molded plastic. However, oak wasn’t typically used in mid century furniture construction.
Oak is typically used in furniture styles that date back to much earlier eras, such as the Mission and Arts & Crafts styles of the 19th century. However, this isn’t to say that oak can’t be used in pieces that take design inspiration from mid-century styles; there are sure to be plenty of examples to be found.
In short, oak is not a traditionally mid century furniture style, but can be used in mid-century inspired pieces.
What is the difference between mid century and mid-century modern?
The terms mid-century and mid-century modern are often used interchangeably, but there is a distinct difference between the two.
Mid-century refers to any design, architecture or furniture from the mid-20th century, specifically from the 1930s to the 1960s. It includes any type of style from that period, including Danish modern, Bauhaus, French modern and Craftsman.
Mid-century modern, on the other hand, is a specific design style that was developed during the post-World War II era. It is a pared-down aesthetic that emphasizes functionality and practicality. Typical characteristics of mid-century modern furniture include clean lines, minimalist design, and materials such as wood, plastic and acrylic.
Mid-century modern was popularized by the work of influential designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, and continues to influence modern design styles.
How do I know if my furniture is MCM?
To determine if your furniture is Mid Century Modern (MCM), look for certain characteristics. MCM furniture has a minimalist, streamlined design with simple silhouettes and bold, geometric shapes. Sturdy materials such as wood, steel, and glass are common, and materials such as plastic, vinyl, and upholstery may also be used.
Additionally, MCM furniture often features bright colors and bold patterned fabrics, which can be found on chairs, stools, and sofas. Natural and neutral colors are also often used. Functional, wooden pieces are a hallmark of MCM furniture with tapered legs, visible joined sections, and hard-edge construction all being signs of good MCM craftsmanship.
Another way to determine if you have Mid Century Modern furniture is to research the manufacturer or designer. Many MCM designers, such as Florence Knoll and Charles and Ray Eames, have become legendary and sought after.
Researching the designer, especially if you have the signature of the designer written on the furniture, can help determine if it is MCM or not. You can also look for hallmarks or stamps from the era, including from companies like Drexel, Heywood-Wakefield, and Herman Miller.
What is considered mid century furniture?
Mid century furniture refers to the furnishings and design style popular during the middle of the 20th century, primarily between the 1930s and 1960s. Characteristics of mid century furniture include bold colors and shapes, durable materials like teak, minimal ornamentation and clean lines, and functional-focused designs.
Common materials used in mid century furniture construction are plastic, metal, and wood—particularly teak, rosewood, walnut, and beech. These pieces often featured low-lying, straight-legged shapes and incorporated the use of geometric shapes, curves, and natural textures within their designs.
Examples of popular mid century furniture pieces include the Barcelona Chair, Eames Lounge Chair, Noguchi Table, Hans Wegner Wishbone Chair, and Bertoia Side Chair.
When was oak wood popular?
Oak wood has been popular for a long time, with uses for furniture, flooring, and other construction dating back thousands of years. It was a popular choice for early settlers in both North America and Europe for its durability and unique grain.
In 15th and 16th century Europe, oak was the preferred choice for building boats and other naval vessels due to its waterproof qualities and resistance to rot.
In more recent times, oak wood is still held in high regard for its versatility and gorgeous grain. From furniture to millwork, the wood is left unstained to show off the natural graining or sealed to create a seamless look.
Oak wood was especially popular in the 1950s and 1960s, with mid-century modern designs often crafted out of the wood. Even today, it is a popular choice for furniture and decor, ranging from light to dark shades and stains.
Its popularity continues in part due to its availability, affordability, and strength, making it a great choice for quality home furnishings.
Is oak furniture valuable?
Oak furniture is considered valuable for a variety of reasons. Firstly, oak is a durable hardwood that can last for decades if cared for correctly, making it a great long-term investment. Secondly, its beautiful grain and golden hue makes it aesthetically pleasing, elevating the look of any room.
Lastly, its timeless design makes furniture with oak an investment that can easily blend with different decor styles. All of these factors make oak furniture an excellent value, and it is sure to add a touch of sophistication to any home.
How do you know if something is mid-century modern?
Mid-century modern is a style of design that was popular during the mid-20th century and is characterized by minimalist lines, natural materials, and a timeless aesthetic. To determine if something is mid-century modern, there are several key elements to look for.
1. Clean, minimal lines – look for pieces with a streamlined look, such as those with tapered legs, curved edges, and a general lack of extra embellishments.
2. Natural materials – common materials in mid-century modern design include wood, metal, glass, and plastic. Natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and leather are also often used.
3. Simplicity – mid-century modern designs are known for their simplicity and lack of extra details or unnecessary ornamentation.
4. Neutral color palette – this style is typically quite neutral, with common colors like beige, black, white, amber, and grey. Other colors in earth tones, such as blue, green, and brown, are also often used.
5. Organic integration – natural elements like plants, flowers, and even artwork depicting nature are often associated with mid-century modern design.
6. Focal point – mid-century modern design doesn’t necessarily have a focal point, but rather often has several well-defined areas that the eye is drawn to.
If the piece you are looking at seems to meet these criteria, then it is likely mid-century modern.
How do you mix mid-century modern and traditional?
Mixing mid-century modern and traditional can be a great way to bring together two popular interior design styles. The key is to create a balanced look that merges both elements in a complementary way.
Start by selecting key pieces that reflect both styles, like a mid-century modern sideboard combined with a set of traditional chairs. To create an unified look, choose colors that pair well together, like combining warm tones with cool shades of grey.
Fabrics can also be a great asset when blending styles, try pairing muted patterns with subtle textures to bring both styles together. Another great way to mix mid-century modern with traditional is to add unexpected accessories.
Artwork or lighting fixtures with a contemporary twist can be a great way to bridge the gap between traditional and modern elements. With the right approach, a mix of mid-century modern and traditional can create a timeless, sophisticated look.
How do you authenticate MCM furniture?
Authenticating MCM furniture can be a tricky process, as there are many potential factors involved. Generally, the most reliable way to identify genuine MCM furniture is to have an experienced appraiser carefully inspect the piece.
Factors to consider include the type of material used, style, construction and hardware, overall condition, and any other details that can help determine the piece’s authenticity. In addition, the appraiser can compare the piece to known examples of genuine MCM furniture, which can help determine if it is authentic.
Authenticity can also be determined by examining the manufacturer’s label or identifying any proof of manufacturer authenticity, such as a stamped mark. With the assistance of an experienced appraiser, MCM furniture can be reliably authenticated.
How do you identify wood in mid century furniture?
Identifying wood used in mid century furniture can be difficult, as many pieces were highly stylized and incorporated various materials, some of which were directly inspired by more exotic woods. Generally, however, there are a few common types of wood used in mid century furniture which can help to identify the type of wood being used.
Most common were woods such as oak, maple, walnut, and cherry. These woods were popular not just for their durability and rich color but also for their relatively low cost and easy availability. With these four types of wood, look for any clues that can confirm the type of wood being used.
For example, oak has a grain that is generally more open, whereas maple has a very tight grain. Walnut is often a deep brown hue, while cherry can range in color from deep burgundy to pale tan.
Other woods used in mid century furniture include teak and rosewood. These woods were more expensive to purchase and harder to find. Teak is a glossy wood, often with golden brown tones, while rosewood has a deep, dark color like mahogany.
In addition, both woods are often filled with decorative inlays and accents, which can help to confirm that the wood being studied is teak or rosewood.
Finally, there were other unique types of wood that could be used in mid century furniture, including sucupira, rosewood, and ebony. These woods were much rarer so it can be more difficult to identify them.
If a piece of furniture includes intricate details or an exotic look and feel, these are clues that you may be dealing with an uncommon wood. In this case, it can be a good idea to reach out to a professional appraiser or woodworker who can inspect the wood and help to identify the type of wood used in the furniture.
Is mid-century modern going out of style?
No, mid-century modern is not going out of style. Although some aspects of the trend have become associated with the past, mid-century modern is still very much in style and continues to be embraced in homes, businesses and other settings.
In fact, many people are now embracing this style more than ever as a way to add an eclectic, vintage charm to their decor. Some of the key features of this style include clean lines, organic shapes, muted colors, natural materials and an overall emphasis on minimalism.
These timeless design elements continue to be popular and can be incorporated in a modern, updated way. Additionally, furniture pieces and accents inspired by the mid-century modern style can be found in a variety of styles and price points, making this design trend accessible to a broad range of people.
How do you make a traditional dresser look modern?
Making a traditional dresser look modern largely depends on the style and construction of the dresser. If it has outright ornate features and has no plain or fundamental elements to it, then it is much more difficult to make it look modern.
However, for dressers that have basic elements, it is more manageable to give them a modern look and feel.
One of the easiest solutions is to paint the dresser with a bold color. Think navy blue, olive green, or even a soft hue of navy blue or grey. This can really make the dresser stand out. Additionally, painting the dresser a solid color can also help create a sleeker, more modern look.
Another way to make a traditional dresser look modern is to change out the handles and pulls. Replacing retro styled materials with modern steel, glass, or brass knobs is an easy and cost effective way to update the dresser.
Additionally, adding new knobs to a traditional dresser can also help draw attention to the finer details of the dresser.
Lastly, adding modern accessories to the dresser can also help. This can include anything from a statement mirror placed on top of the dresser to a decorative bowl filled with colorful throws. In general, modern accessories should feature simple lines, clean cuts and, most importantly, solid colors.
What is a MCM dresser?
A MCM dresser is a type of dresser that is inspired by Mid-Century Modern (MCM) design. These pieces typically feature clean lines, tapered legs, geometric shapes and bright colors. The materials used to make MCM dressers can range from wood, to glass and plastic.
MCM dressers are often a reflection of the era they were designed in and are considered to be highly collectible pieces of furniture. As MCM design has become increasingly popular in recent years, these dressers often come back in style and can be quite expensive to purchase.
Many people are drawn to the vibrant colors, sleek lines and simple elegance of MCM dressers which can make them a great addition to any space.
What era is MCM?
MCM stands for Modern Creation München and is a luxury fashion and lifestyle brand created in 1976 by Michael Cromer. The brand’s aesthetic is inspired by its vintage roots and reflects the modernist design of the 1970s, falling under the retro-style aesthetic category.
MCM focuses on creating timeless pieces that combine classic design elements with modern details, allowing the brand to stay current over the years. The defining features of its pieces make it easily recognizable, including the striking logo, eye-catching prints, and luxurious materials.
MCM has become synonymous with the era of success, glamour, and opulence known as the ‘Disco Years’ and its iconic branding serves as a reminder of the glitz and excess of the time.
