Mid Century Modern 6 Interior Design Tips

The emergence of mid-century modern design, rooted in the Industrial Revolution and the Post-War Era, began in the mid-20th century in America, took shape in the 1930s, and lasted into the 1960s.

It is known for combining sleek lines with organic shapes, using new materials and methods to reimagine traditional pieces, and continue to evolve.

Mid-century modern home

A mid-century modern home will often be single-story with an open plan layout adorned with stylish, practical furnishings, a lowered roof or ceiling, large windows on the sides and back of the house, and an emphasis on the outdoors. It extends beyond home decor since its origins and plays a huge role in interior design culture. 

Mid-century modern decor is synonymous with elegant chairs, statement lamps, and TV stands; It features tapered legs, bold bursts of color, materials like stylish chrome, and geometric patterns. 

Mid-century modern furniture was designed to be multifunctional, based on the design principle that furniture is to conserve space rather than smother it in small homes and apartments. You will often find that original pieces can be stacked, folded or nested together.

It has stood the test of time and continues to be stylish, if not more so, in our homes, institutions and offices today. The essence of the mid-century modern and the reason for its popularity – to this day – lies in the simplicity and functionality of iconic pieces. 

The use of mix and match materials makes them the perfect addition to any home. It can also be said that those who buy homes and furniture today grew up in mid-century design, meaning their association with style brings back some nostalgia.

6 Tips For Mid-Century Modern

1- Contrasting Materials and Fabrics

The juxtaposition of natural materials such as wood, concrete, steel with man-made materials defines mid-century modern interiors. The discovery of new materials such as fiberglass, plywood, foam, aluminum and plastic laminates has been applied to furniture designs and is considered revolutionary among designers. 

2- Minimal Ornament

It is common in mid-century modern homes to have bold, assertive pieces such as large sculptures or plants – not usually small trinkets or collectibles. Avoid clutter or unused or unloved items by focusing on the simple basics and with a few accessories to complete the look.

3- Neutral and Dark Colors

The mid-century color palette has ranged from bright hues of the 1950s to earthy hues of the 1960s. Bold colors bring visual focus to minimal, uncluttered rooms and are used to contrast with black, white or gray. 

4- Geometrical shapes

The simplicity of mid-century modern furniture welcomes the use of geometric patterns that add character to a room. Prints, artwork, mirrors, clocks, and rugs are widely used, with patterns resembling starbursts, atomic, and boomerang features.

5- Blurred Lines Between Outdoor and Indoor

Mid-century modern style emphasizes taking full advantage of the natural elements in a room, from exposed beams to wood paneling and pristine brick walls.

6-  Form Follows Function

One of the key principles that defines mid-century modern design is the idea that 'form follows function'. In other words, furniture, objects and buildings influenced by modernism are designed to reflect their intended use; i.e. if they prove to be impractical, they are not needed.

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