Mid-century modern is a defining style of the 20th century, combining functionality and simplicity. It draws inspiration from 1950s to 1960s aesthetic and architecture movements, such as Bauhaus, International and Post-War modernism.
Mid-century modern has a distinct look that features an open plan, earthy colours, lots of light, clean lines, and minimalist feel. The combination of functional and minimal furniture pieces, along with the attention to detail and incorporation of natural elements give Mid-Century Modern its unique look.
Features such as geometric shapes and curves, natural wood or metal, and a combination of different textiles to create texture further enhances the style. Mid-century modern is often considered timeless and is often used, as it is suitable for both traditional and contemporary spaces.
The furniture pieces are designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, often taking up little space and withstanding the test of time. The focus is on creating stylish and functional spaces that are easy to maintain, with iconic elements and styles kept at a minimal.
How is mid-century modern different from modern?
Mid-century modern is a design style that emerged in the mid-20th century and is characterized by simple and often minimalist designs with a focus on clean lines and organic shapes. This style of design sprang out of the post-World War II era when furniture and decor was inspired by new technologies and advancements.
Compared to the modern style, mid-century modern is less linear and more organic in its design. Mid-century modern tends to feature a wide range of materials, such as plywood, leather, molds, plastics and often brightly-colored fabric upholstery.
As opposed to modern, mid-century modern furniture often incorporates a blend of different materials, woods and fabrics to create unique visual interest. Another key distinction between the two is that mid-century modern often uses bold and often unexpected color choices to introduce vibrancy into a space, while modern style tends to embrace a more neutral, subdued palette.
Finally, mid-century modern pieces boast intricate and often sculptural designs, while modern pieces are more simplistic and restrained.
Why do Millennials like mid-century modern?
Millennials are drawn to mid-century modern style because it allows them to express their individual style and leave a personal imprint on their space. Its clean lines and timeless aesthetic offer form, function and flexibility in design.
Millennials prize comfort, convenience, and style when shopping for furniture, and mid-century modern furniture allows them to have both. Its simple but structured designs are easy to use and can add texture, color and comfort to a room.
Mid-century modern furniture also easily fits into a modern, minimalistic design style with its sleek lines and minimal detailing. Its timelessness allows it to be mixed with other furniture pieces creating interesting and eclectic combinations.
Millennials also value sustainability and mid-century modern furniture typically lasts longer and is more durable thus contributing to a green lifestyle. Having a home full of beautiful, quality-made furniture that also reflects their own personal style is why Millennials are drawn to mid-century modern.
What’s the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?
The term “mid-century modern” is used to describe the specific design and decor style that first appeared in the 1950s and had a resurgence starting in the late 1990s. Mid-century relates to a period of time in the middle of the 20th century and encompasses post-war modernism, industrialism, and minimalism.
Mid-century is typically characterized as a period of transition and can refer to a variety of design styles ranging from retro to contemporary. Mid-century modern, on the other hand, describes a particular style of design, art, and architecture that emerged during the mid-20th century and was popular in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.
Mid-century modern design is characterized by its simplistic shapes, clean lines, and organic textures. Common features of mid-century modern include furniture with tapered legs, geometric tables and chairs, and sleek, curved armchairs.
It also tends to feature a blend of minimalism and functionality, blending natural materials with bright, bold colors and patterns. Mid-century modern can also be found in architecture, art, and home decor, sharing the same elements of simplicity, organic shapes, and clean lines.
Is MCM going out of style?
No, MCM is not going out of style. In fact, it is very much in vogue at the moment. This mid-century modern style features clean lines, minimalism, and a neutral color palette, making it a timeless look.
It is often used to create a balance between old-fashioned and modern decor. MCM has been used to create a refreshing, airy atmosphere in homes, offices, and other spaces. Many homeowners are now turning to MCM to make their spaces look more modern while still retaining a timeless and classic aesthetic.
In addition, MCM can be combined with many other more contemporary styles to create unique, interesting, and modern looks. All in all, MCM is definitely not going out of style any time soon.
What wood is used in mid-century furniture?
The type of wood used in mid-century furniture can vary depending on the manufacturer and the style of the furniture. Generally speaking, the most popular types of wood used in mid-century furniture are oak, walnut, and teak.
Oak is a hardwood that is easily recognizable and appreciated for its strength and natural grain. Walnut is a versatile wood that is often used for its stunning dark brown color and tight grain pattern.
Teak is often used in mid-century furniture due to its hard, durable properties and beautiful golden flecks that appear in the grain. Other woods that are sometimes used include maple, birch, ash, pine, and rosewood.
All of these woods have different characteristics, making them desirable for different types of furniture.
How do I find the mid century look?
Finding the mid century look can be quite easy, with a few simple steps. The mid century look is marked by a classic modern-meets-vintage style, featuring simple geometric shapes, clean lines, and natural materials.
First, select timelessly designed furniture pieces in neutral colors, such as whites, grays, or blacks. Mid century furniture pieces often have angled legs, curved lines, and classic silhouettes, such as wingback or barrel chairs.
Invest in quality materials, such as rich woods and sturdy metals, and look for pieces with unique shapes and textures.
Second, create a color palette that blends natural and saturated tones. Neutral colors should take precedence, but you can bring in a few bright pops of color, such as yellow or blue, to keep the style fresh.
You can also bring in vintage-inspired rugs and textiles to complement the surroundings.
Lastly, don’t forget your accessories. This is where you can get creative and add a bit of your own personal style. Look for vintage-inspired pieces, such as classic clocks and art pieces, and natural materials like plants, driftwood, and stones, to really bring the mid century look to life.
How do you know if something is mid-century modern?
Mid-century modern is a style of architecture and design that emerged in the mid-1900s and has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is characterized by its distinctive use of geometric shapes and simple silhouettes, as well as warm and natural materials such as wood and leather.
Other common features include open floor plans, exposed beams and ceilings, and large windows. Mid-century modern furniture typically features a low profile, curved lines, and thin legs. One of the most well-known designers of mid-century modern furniture is George Nelson.
To determine if something is mid-century modern, look for these defining characteristics, such as geometric shapes, thin legs, and smooth textures. Also, look for the use of natural materials such as wood and leather, as well as open floor plans and large windows.
If you see furniture or architecture that includes these defining elements, you can be sure that it is truly mid-century modern.
Are the 70’s considered mid century?
No, the 70s are not considered mid-century. While the 70s decade came in the middle of the century and was likely heavily influenced by mid-century design, the term ‘mid-century’ generally denotes the middle of the 20th century, spanning from the years 1945 to 1965.
This period is often associated with the design aesthetic of the 1950s and 1960s, and popularized by modern architects like Le Corbusier and Frank Lloyd Wright. So while the 70s might have had some echoes of the mid-century era, it was, in general, its own distinct era.
What is the cutoff for Millennials?
The term “Millennial” refers to individuals born between 1981 and 1996, and so therefore the cutoff for Millennials is 1996. The Millennial generation, sometimes referred to as Generation Y, followed the Generation X group and preceded Generation Z.
This generation has been shaped by technological advancement and the rise of social media, and is known for having more liberal values when it comes to gender and sexuality. This generation is often described as having a stronger focus on purpose and experience than previous generations, as well as being more open to collaboration and innovation.
Millennials also tend to place more value on personal life and work-life balance than previous generations.