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DESIGN 101
Mid Century Modern Style Guide
If you're looking for a way to make a room more comfortable or add some functional pieces without giving up your carefully curated style, you might be interested in mid-century modern interior design. This style was popularized in the mid-20th century, but it persists today due to its emphasis on natural lines and design simplicity.
What Is Mid Century Modern Interior Design Style?
Mid century modern is a design aesthetic that favors simple, functional pieces in natural styles. It was a direct response to the more complex designs that preceded the movement. Many people like mid century modern for its simplicity and comfort.
The movement has been around for the better part of a century, and many consider it timeless. Indeed, it's a flexible style that can accommodate most lifestyles. And its simplicity makes it easy to combine with many other aesthetics for a unique look that's all your own.
The History of Mid Century Modern Interior Design Style
The mid century modern aesthetic spawned from drastic changes in technology and social ideals after World War II. Many people sought to leave the past behind, with its ornate decor and maximalist values, in favor of a simpler future. This was combined with a boom in technological advancement that made it easier and more affordable to mass-produce simple products. The resulting style favored clean, simple lines, natural shapes and materials, and functional designs, though not at the expense of form.
On the contrary, many designers created stunning mid century modern decor pieces still beloved today. For example, Charles and Ray Eames crafted the Eames Chair, an ergonomic lounge chair that retains popularity nearly a century later. Other major designers included Pierre Paulin, George Nelson, and Frank Lloyd Wright, though the latter passed away early on in the movement.
Although the style gave way to other aesthetics in the 1970s and '80s, it remains popular among many interior designers, and its tenets are still frequently incorporated into modern designs.
Elements of Mid Century Modern Interiors
What are the rules of mid century modern style?
Though the mid century modern design style is rooted in personal expression, there are a few guidelines that can help keep your decor cohesive, even as you make it your own:
1.
Choose pieces with clean lines
Steer clear of ornate carvings or avant-garde outlines. In particular, soft, natural curves are popular with mid century modern interiors.
2.
Favor function without sacrificing form
Everything in your space should be placed there intentionally, with a purpose in mind. But do remember, beauty is a purpose, too.
3.
Incorporate comfortable, ergonomic furniture
Pieces like the Eames chair were popular not only because they were aesthetically striking, but also because they were extremely comfortable. Mid century modern design favors personal comfort over stiff pieces made just for show.
4.
Pick a striking color combo
Think about the technicolor palettes of the '50s, '60s, and '70s. Many of these were mid century modern styles. A good mid century modern interior palette incorporates a mix of soft, natural, neutrals with pops of bright accents such as orange, purple, or turquoise. This integration of the unobtrusive fused with the bold creates visual interest without overwhelming the senses.
Of course, one of the major reasons mid century modern interior design is so popular is how well it fuses with other aesthetics. Combining styles may mean modifying these rules to suit your needs. Fortunately, the mid century aesthetic is flexible enough to do so with ease.
Mid century modern furniture ideas
Incorporating even one or two mid century modern furniture pieces into a room can help soften your style and add warmth and comfort. Depending on the room, you might choose different pieces to begin your transformation.
In the living room, for example, you might swap your sofa or armchairs for an ergonomic Eames-style chair, or a comfortable leather sectional. Add a pop of color via a soft rug or some eye-catching abstract art.
Your dining room or kitchen might benefit from the tulip tables popularized by this style, which have a round top on a single central leg, instead of four legs at the corners. This enables more people to sit around the same table comfortably. And where better to sit than some ergonomic dining chairs that make hours of conversation good for the body and the soul?
A mid century modern bedroom is another great place to incorporate some of these comforts. Invest in soft blankets made from chenille, fur, or natural cotton. Choose a natural wood bedframe with clean lines to rest the body and the eyes.
How To Incorporate Mid Century Modern Style Into Your Interior Design
If you're looking to infuse some mid century modern interior design into your space, you might find it easier than you think. You don't even need to do a complete redesign of the room — though you certainly can, if you're feeling ambitious.
Start by going through the space and considering the function of each item there. Each item should have a purpose, even if that purpose is purely to entertain the eye, such as wall art that functions as a statement piece.
When it comes to swapping out furniture, lean into eclectic designs. Don't be afraid to mix and match textiles, materials, or even color palettes. Choose things with natural lines and materials. Soft curves of wood or rattan will fit right in. Tie everything together with a neutral, unobtrusive color scheme — think beiges, browns, or pastels. Then, add a pop of color by choosing a brighter accent color such as teal or lavender.
Infuse Your Home With Comfort and Style With Mid Century Modern Interiors
Mid century modern interior design is centered around comfort and simplicity, which has kept it popular even today. Whether you're interested in a total room makeover or just want to add a few of mid century modern's simple, clean comforts to soften up your space, incorporating some mid-century modern elements is a great way to revitalize your space.