In this series, we’re going to take a look at a specific design style and I’ll give you some tips on how you can achieve that style in your own home. Interior design can be pricey, so I’ll also provide both budget-friendly and higher priced options so you can find something that’s right for you!
REWIND: HISTORY
The Mid-Century Modern style (or MCM as it’s lovingly known) grew out of the post-WWII home environment.[1] A shift in focus towards the nuclear family unit led to the creation of furniture centered on function than aesthetics. This caused furniture to be constructed with cleaner lines and simpler silhouettes.[2] The development of new technologies also led to the creation of new forms, patterns, and textures.[3] Notable Mid-Century Modern designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Florence Knoll, Eero Saarinen, and Harry Bertoia.
KEY ELEMENTS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN DESIGN
· Functional furniture with clean lines
· A focus on organic materials, especially wood
· Bold displays of color and pattern
RETAILERS TO SHOP FOR THE MID-CENTURY MODERN LOOK
· West Elm
· Herman Miller
· Crate and Barrel
· AllModern
· Burrow
STATEMENT COFFEE TABLES
Budget-Friendly Option: Best Choice Products Wooden Mid-Century Modern Coffee Accent Table Furniture w/ Open Storage Shelf, Target, $89.99
The legs of this coffee table are characteristically Mid-Century Modern. The clean, white finish will brighten any room and the storage glamorously hides clutter.
Pricey Option: Mid-Century Art Display Round Coffee Table, West Elm, $499 (34”)-$759 (42”)
This coffee table mixes three materials – wood, glass, and metal – but employs a simple geometric form. It’s practically an art piece!
STYLISH SOFAS
Budget-Friendly Option: Clayton 83.47” Sofa, Joss and Main, $1,350
This sofa features the characteristics thin legs of Mid-Century Modern design. The fabric is also very durable as it is resistant to stains, scratches, and fading.
Pricey Option: Lispenard Sofa, Herman Miller, $5,195
Herman Miller has been synonymous with Mid-Century Modern design for over 100 years. As an originator of the style, the company worked with many of the creators of the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic. This simple sofa has a low profile and signature hardwood legs. As a bonus, this sofa comes in a range of fabrics, including leather, so you can customize it to fit your home.
POLISHED LIGHTING
Budget-Friendly Option: Lauters Floor Lamp, IKEA, $64.99
This floor lamp provides a simple, yet bold statement. It follows the geometric form beloved by the Mid-Century Modern style, but the tripod legs make the lamp more dynamic. The lamp is beneficial for the environment as the legs come from sustainably sourced wood and the lamp shade is made from recyclable materials.
Pricey Option: Tripod Floor Lamp, Urban Outfitters, $399
Much like the previous lamp, this one is a tripod. However, the color blocking adds a subtle pattern to a space and gives a room personality. The dark lamp shade will provide indirect light, so it may not be as bright as if the lamp shade were of a lighter color.
CREATIVE SHELVING UNITS
Budget-Friendly Option: East Urban Home Argelia 4-Piece Floating Shelf, Wayfair, $89.99
This modular shelf adds dimension to a blank wall. The off-center shelves is a unique way to display decorative items.
Pricey Option: Index Wall Shelf, Burrow, $399 (Set of 1)-$2,195 (Set of 6)
Made from sustainably sourced oak, this shelving unit makes a statement. Its simple, yet functional form, epitomizes Mid-Century Modern design. The vertical linear dividers turn three simple shelves into a statement bookcase.
NOW IT’S YOUR TURN!
The MCM style is perfect for those who want a no-frills interior but with style. Contemporary design can seem cold to some, but MCM’s use of organic material (especially wood) helps to add warmth and drama to all spaces. You don’t have to spend a ton of money on “authentic Mid-Century Modern” pieces. With a bit of know-how, you can achieve this style on any budget.
References.
1. Sarah Lyon. “What Is Midcentury Modern Style? Here's What You Should Know.” The Spruce. February 4, 2022. https://www.thespruce.com/things-you-should-know-about-mid-century-1391827.
2. Ibid.
3. Living Spaces, “What Is Mid-Century Modern Style?” N.d. https://www.livingspaces.com/inspiration/ideas-advice/styles/what-is-mid-century-modern-style.