Sleek lines, organic shapes, and vibrant pops of color. Are these characteristics starting to describe something familiar to you? Unless you've been living under a rock (no offense), it's probably because you already know (and love) the mid-century modern style.
This style emerged after World War II as a response to the austerity and functionalism of the war years. Designers like Charles and Ray Eames, Arne Jacobsen, and George Nelson were eager to create spaces and furniture that were both beautiful and functional, with an emphasis on simplicity, clean lines, and organic shapes. (A recipe for great design, if you ask us.) They used materials like molded plywood, fiberglass, and plastic to create lightweight, durable, and affordable furniture. Designers were also fascinated by new materials and manufacturing techniques. They incorporated futuristic elements like aerodynamic lines (think about Verner Panton’s Panton chair and Eero Saarinen’s Tulip chair) of space shuttles, boomerang patterns, and starburst motifs into their work as an ode to this era.
To achieve this style in your home, look for pieces with tapered legs, streamlined silhouettes, and organic curves, like a low-slung sofa or a funky accent chair. You can add mid-century flair with accessories like a statement light fixture, bold patterned rug, or funky wall art. Don't be afraid to experiment with color! Mid-century modern is all about creating a space that's vibrant, playful, and energetic (imagine all the things you love about a mid-century room), so don't be shy about incorporating some bold hues into your design. Whether you opt for a bright orange sofa or a teal accent wall, just remember to keep your color scheme balanced and cohesive. With a little bit of decorating magic, your home can be a stylish haven that feels like it's straight out of a Mad Men episode.
Sleek lines, organic shapes, and vibrant pops of color. Are these characteristics starting to describe something familiar to you? Unless you've been living under a rock (no offense), it's probably because you already know (and love) the mid-century modern style.
This style emerged after World War II as a response to the austerity and functionalism of the war years. Designers like Charles and Ray Eames, Arne Jacobsen, and George Nelson were eager to create spaces and furniture that were both beautiful and functional, with an emphasis on simplicity, clean lines, and organic shapes. (A recipe for great design, if you ask us.) They used materials like molded plywood, fiberglass, and plastic to create lightweight, durable, and affordable furniture. Designers were also fascinated by new materials and manufacturing techniques. They incorporated futuristic elements like aerodynamic lines (think about Verner Panton’s Panton chair and Eero Saarinen’s Tulip chair) of space shuttles, boomerang patterns, and starburst motifs into their work as an ode to this era.
To achieve this style in your home, look for pieces with tapered legs, streamlined silhouettes, and organic curves, like a low-slung sofa or a funky accent chair. You can add mid-century flair with accessories like a statement light fixture, bold patterned rug, or funky wall art. Don't be afraid to experiment with color! Mid-century modern is all about creating a space that's vibrant, playful, and energetic (imagine all the things you love about a mid-century room), so don't be shy about incorporating some bold hues into your design. Whether you opt for a bright orange sofa or a teal accent wall, just remember to keep your color scheme balanced and cohesive. With a little bit of decorating magic, your home can be a stylish haven that feels like it's straight out of a Mad Men episode.
Source: Harry Seidler
Source: Harry Seidler
