Mid-Century Modern

Mid-century modern is a throwback to the design style of the mid-1900s—primarily the 1950s and 60s. There’s a retro nostalgia present in Mid-Century Modern Design, and also some elements of minimalism. Functionality or “fussy-free” was the main theme for Mid-century design. It emphasis on pared-down forms, natural or organic shapes such as “egg-shaped” chair, easy-to-use contemporary designs and simple fabrications. It easily complements any interior and also helps with seamless transition from interior to exterior. In the 1950s and ’60s, a post-war America was looking to break traditional design conventions and propel its design industries into the modern era. As a result, the mid-century modern style was born. Characterised by clean, simple lines, pops of blues and greens, and plenty of wood and rusty metals, mid-century modern is a design style with definite staying power. Looking for ways to incorporate the style into your home? Sarah Akwisombe’s top tip is to head to the charity shops. ‘Once you get out of London or bigger cities you’ll find they don’t always appreciate the mid-century modern style that much, so you can find some great lamps, teak furniture and even sofas and armchairs if you look well’, Sarah explains. Expert Advice “MID-CENTURY MODERN CONSISTENTLY MAKES A STYLE STATEMENT THAT’S BIG ON CHARACTER, CONTOURS AND COLOUR SO SITS EXTREMELY WELL WITHIN THE VIBRANT, ECLECTIC DESIGNS I EMPLOY WHEN CREATING AN ECO UPCYCLED ROOM; IF I’M LOOKING FOR INSTANT IMPACT, FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES FROM THE ’50S AND ’60S ARE AN OBVIOUS CHOICE: WHO COULD FAIL TO BE STUNNED BY THE BEAUTY OF A MERROW ASSOCIATES CHROMED STEEL AND ROSEWOOD SIDEBOARD OR A STATEMENT DISPLAY OF DIFFERENT SIZE AND SHAPE, SAME COLOR RETRO GLASS VASES” CHRIS BILLINGHURST, ECO CHIC INTERIOR DECORATOR One of the confusing aspects of the modern (often referred to as midcentury modern) decorating style is that it does not refer to futuristic, new-age décor as the name seems to imply, but is actually a decorating movement from the mid-1900s -- particularly the 1920s through the 1950s. Breaking away from earlier decorating styles, which tended to be ornate and often handcrafted, the modern movement embraced mass production and simple lines. A midcentury modern color scheme is mostly neutral: white walls, bare wood floors, furnishings in cream, gray, brown and white. Touches of color come mostly from artwork or small accent furniture – pops of orange, blue, red and yellow are particularly favored. Modern furniture typically has a long and low shape. Rather than boxy furniture that sits directly on the floor, the modern style raises furniture up on legs, typically made from chrome or other metal. This gives the room an open, airy feel. Although wood-frame furniture with leather or linen upholstery is typical of midcentury modern style, the new look stretched to include molded plastic, plywood, and chrome. While the modern style is not bleak or lifeless, it’s also not excessively cluttered or adorned. Decorative accessories are kept to a minimum, often just a few pieces of large artwork or unique collectibles.