The return of clean, simple lines and an understated aesthetic is much-welcomed. A brief hiatus in the popularity of opulent, mid-century modern interior design occurred in the latter half of the 20th century. Why do we keep coming back? It’s hard to say no to the classic and nostalgic appeal of these no-fuss, practical designs.

Read on for our top midcentury design styling advice as we dig into this timeless design. From its humble beginnings in Scandinavian design, mid-century modernism has taken the world by storm. Its popularity is largely due to its focus on functionality and simplicity.

These features provide a refreshing change of pace from the more eccentric styles that came before it. Additionally, midcentury design wooden furniture is often very affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious individuals. As you can see, there are many reasons why this style remains popular after all these years.

However, you should keep a few things in mind if you want to achieve the perfect midcentury design look. First and foremost, stick to a neutral color palette, and this will give your space a clean and airy feel. Secondly, focus on clean lines and simple silhouettes. Avoid any wooden furniture that is too ornate or fussy.

1.- Know its History: What is Mid-Century Modern Architecture and Interior Design?

The term “mid-century modern” is used to describe a span of time in design history, from approximately 1933 to 1965. It is characterized by a clean, uncluttered look and feel, with an emphasis on functionality. Flat roofs, wide rectangular windows, and even circular structures characterize midcentury design buildings.

This style of architecture and design was a response to the extremely elaborate and formal styles of the 1800s. After World War I and the discovery of foreign influences like Scandinavian design in the 1930s, there was a surge in contemporary design.

Mid-century modernism truly took off in the United States after World War II, when soldiers came home and wanted a simplification of their lives. This new way of thinking about design was also evident in the art world, where artists began experimenting with more abstract forms and shapes.

While midcentury modern design fell out of favor in the 1970s, it has recently experienced a resurgence as people have come to appreciate its clean lines and uncomplicated aesthetic.

2.- Match Your Personality with a Mid-Century Modern Interior Design

Some people are more drawn to certain home design styles than others. If you stick to design styles you’re naturally pulled towards, you’ll end up with a home you love. Maintaining a consistent approach can help you create a space you enjoy while also boosting your confidence so you can explore your design preferences. Keep in mind that familiarizing yourself with current interior design trends will be really beneficial!

For example, someone who prefers clean lines and minimalism might be most drawn to mid-century modern style. Such an interior, however, will be more appealing to people who genuinely respect real antique styles. The furniture in this style can accommodate even the tiniest of spaces, which is ideal for families because of its practicality and longevity.

3.- Room by Room, Identify Mid-Century Modern Interiors.

Mid-century interiors are daring, colorful, and inviting. They have a sense of style that is both retro and contemporary. However, achieving this look can be difficult and requires a careful balance of vintage and modern elements. Here are a few tips for achieving this aesthetic in your home.

Start by doing your research. Familiarize yourself with the style by looking at pictures of mid-century interiors. Pay attention to the details, and note the use of color, pattern, and texture. Then, consider your research as you start planning your own space.

When it comes to furnishing your space, you’ll need to strike a balance between vintage and modern pieces. Look for furniture with clean lines and simple silhouettes. Mid-century pieces tend to be made with natural materials, like wood and leather. However, you can also mix in some more contemporary pieces, like metal or glass. The key is to create a cohesive look.

The Mid-Century Modern Kitchen Design

The importance of the kitchen in midcentury modern design cannot be overstated. This is the room where families gather to prepare meals and share time together. As such, it needed to be both functional and stylish. Mid-century kitchen design ideas are known for their clean lines and simple cabinet door knobs.

Modern and antique kitchens alike can’t be complete without an island. A classic kitchen comes to life when coupled with sleek bar stools and a few choice colored accessories. The right mid-century kitchen design can make any home feel like a luxurious retreat.

The Mid-Century Modern Bedroom

There’s no denying the importance of the bedroom in midcentury modern design. This is a style that’s all about simplicity, functionality, and clean lines. As a result, it’s often gender-neutral in appearance. That doesn’t mean it can’t be fun, though! Incorporating individuality into a bedroom is a cinch.

You can mix and match textures, patterns, and colors to create a space that’s truly unique. And don’t be afraid to splurge on key pieces, like lighting or furniture. Just remember to keep the overall look and feel of the room in mind. With a little bit of creativity, you can easily achieve the perfect bedroom!

Click here to learn how to design a Mid-Century Modern Bedroom

The Mid-Century Modern Dining Room 

The dining room is one of the more important areas to decorate in a home, and this is because the dining room is where people will eat meals and entertain guests. A well-decorated dining room will make people feel welcome and comfortable. There are many different ways to decorate a dining room. Still, one of the most popular styles is mid-century modern.

A mid-century modern dining room can be created with a handcrafted dining table and chairs in velvet. A chandelier or pendant light swinging over the table will add a modern touch. Creating a stunningly coherent environment in your home will make meal times more enjoyable and entertaining guests easier.

Click here to learn How to Design a Mid-Century Modern Dining Room

The Mid-Century Modern Living Room 

This was a space where people came together to socialize and enjoy each other’s company. As such, the mid-century modern living room had to be designed to promote interaction. This meant that furniture arrangements were crucial. Television sets, for example, were never placed as the room’s main focal point, and instead, they were often placed off to the side or in a corner.

This allowed people to interact with one another without the distraction of a television. Additionally, mid-century modern living rooms were often designed with an open floor plan. This allowed for easy movement around the room and extra opportunities for socializing. Combined living and dining rooms were also popular during this time period.

This gave people a place to show off their retro-contemporary furnishings and entertain guests. Ultimately, the living room was an essential part of midcentury modern design. It was a space where people came together to socialize and enjoy each other’s company.

Thanks to its importance, great care was taken to ensure that it was designed in a way that promoted interaction and showed off the best retro-contemporary style.

Click here to learn how to design a Mid-Century Modern Living Room

The Mid-Century Modern Bathroom 

Despite what you may think, the bathroom is a great place to start in midcentury modern design. This is especially true when you consider the importance of color and vintage design concepts in this style. Due to its size, the bathroom is perfect for testing out your color palette or experimenting with different design ideas.

When it comes to furniture, you can go for more simple and streamlined pieces that are easy on the eye. And don’t forget the small details like a side table, potted plants, and some contemporary art pieces that can really bring the room to life. So next time you’re thinking about midcentury modern design, be sure to give the bathroom some thought, and it just might be the perfect place to start.

4.- Decorate Your Home Using Mid-Century Modern Design Ideas

Midcentury Modern design is a timeless style that has been popular for decades. If you pay attention to a few essentials, you can get the look you are aiming for. By following these tips, you can infuse your home with the sophisticated style of Midcentury Modern design.

Simple and Sleek lines 

One of the most important aspects of successful midcentury modern decor and design is the importance of simple and sleek lines. This is something that many contemporary home decorators and designers understand as they strive to create a retro look that is both energizing and stylish.

One of the best ways to achieve this look is to focus on the most basic and essential elements of each piece of furniture. For example, the frame serves as both the foundation and the only ornamental element for a piece of furniture. This clean and uncluttered approach focuses on the overall design rather than on individual details. As a result, midcentury modern style can be both elegant and timeless.

Open Floor Plan

One of the most striking features of this style of architecture is the open floor plan. This concept was pioneered by architects and interior designers who wanted to create a seamless transition from one room to the next. The open floor plan was achieved through the use of large sliding doors and the absence of walls or other obstructions.

This design feature was aesthetically pleasing and highly practical, as it allowed for easy movement and furniture placement. The importance of the open floor plan in this style of architecture cannot be overstated; it is one of the defining features of this unique style.

Mid-Century Modern Art

Mid-Century Modernism was propelled in large part by the work of artists. Because of this, the artwork from this time period is just as noteworthy as the furniture and architecture from the same era. Some artists, like Henri Matisse, continued in the lines of the impressionists. In contrast, others, like Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock, resorted to a post-war atomic style.

When it comes to artwork, color is a common theme. To that end, don’t forget to include some eye-catching items in your collection. The importance of art in the Midcentury Modern style cannot be understated – it was a driving force behind the entire movement. So when you’re curating your own Mid-Century Modern space, make sure to give proper attention to the art on your walls. It’s what will really make your space pop.

Minimal Window treatments 

Windows are an important part of any room but especially important in mid-century modern homes. Large windows were used in these homes to flood the rooms with light and to create a sense of spaciousness. Today, many homeowners are drawn to their homes’ clean lines and simple designs.

If you are lucky enough to have huge windows in your home, you can do a few things to make the most of them. First, consider using minimal window treatments. This will help to highlight the beautiful glass panes and let light into the room.

If you must use curtains, choose airy materials like voile or linen that will let light into the room while still providing privacy. Second, take advantage of the natural light by using pale colors and finishes in your furniture and decor.

This will help reflect the light and create a bright, airy space. Finally, don’t be afraid to embrace the simplicity of the midcentury modern style. Keep your decor minimal and focus on the clean lines of your furniture and window treatments. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful space that is both stylish and functional.

Designing with Retro Colors 

Designers and decorators of mid-century modern homes embraced color in spades. The vintage color palette is surprisingly diverse. This wheel has a wide spectrum of colors, from neutral to bright and vibrant to harsh black and white contrasts. There is a tendency to equate pastel colors like yellows, blues, and pinks with old decor.

Fortunately, neutrals are ageless, so you can always count on them as your most reliable option. When it comes to this style, however, don’t be afraid to experiment with more adventurous hues. From electric oranges to shocking pinks, these retro colors can add instant life and personality to any space.

And if you’re decorating on a budget, they’re a great way to add an extra pop of style without breaking the bank. So whether you’re looking for a subtle nod to the past or a full-on blast from the past, remember that color is key when it comes to mid-century style.

Vintage Home Furnishings

In spite of its seeming simplicity, mid-century furniture remains popular in modern households. Structure, material, and comfort all play a role in this case. Designers didn’t make one material appear like another by using special effects or techniques.

It’s simply what you see: polymers like Lucite and Plexiglass, plywood, glass, wood, and metal in all their splendor are what you’re getting. The result is that these pieces offer an aesthetic that’s hard to find in more recent designs. In a world where fast fashion reigns supreme, the appeal of furniture that’s built to last is undeniable.

And thanks to the timelessness of mid-century design, these pieces can easily find a place in a contemporary home. For those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and classic style, vintage home furnishings are a must.

5.- Learn about Mid-Century Modern Interior Design

The mid-century design movement empowered household furnishings’ functionality, affordability, and simplicity. Unlike the curvy, ornate style of furniture popular in the early 1900s, mid-century pieces featured clean lines, natural materials, and a focus on form following function.

This new aesthetic was born out of necessity during World War II when materials were scarce, and production capabilities were limited. The mid-century style extended beyond war-time America and became an international phenomenon by the 1950s.

Today, vintage mid-century furnishings are highly sought-after by collectors and are often priced well out of the average person’s budget. However, many high-quality reproductions are available at much more reasonable prices. With a few key pieces, creating a stylish and inviting space that pays homage to this iconic design era is easy.

They don’t make them like they used to. That may be a cliché, but when it comes to this style’s furniture, it’s certainly true. These pieces are not only stylish and timeless, but they’re also extremely well-made, using high-quality materials that are built to last.

As a result, they often end up becoming family heirlooms, passed down from generation to generation. The importance of these iconic mid-century modern pieces of living room furniture can’t be overstated. They set the tone for an entire era of design, and their influence can still be seen today. These pieces are essential for any home with a mid-century modern aesthetic from the Eames Lounge Chair to the Marshmallow Sofa, the Egg Chair, or Noguchi Coffee Table.

Likewise, other iconic mid-century pieces are the Arco Floor Lamp, the Wishbone Chair, the Saarinen Dining Table, and the Knoll Sofa are all examples of designer items that may be found in both contemporary and Scandinavian interior design, respectively. Classics are frequently overlooked because they’re so popular, but they’re impossible to replace.

6.- Meet some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers, interior designers, artists, and decorators.

It’s much like any other trend: a few creatives take it farther than anybody expected. There are many brilliant brains behind this style’s architecture and interior design. Some of the names on this list may be known to you. This is due to the fact that many well-known items include the namesake of the designer who created them.

They followed in the footsteps of Frank Lloyd Wright. The outcome is a rectangular structure with a high percentage of glass. Charles and Ray Eames built everything from houses to furniture, and Philip Johnson is a well-known architect. This is one of the most popular pieces by Eames.

It was George Nelson, the creator of the Marshmallow couch. He made enormous steps in introducing Scandinavian contemporary design and interior design to the world. Some artists pushed the frontier even further by blurring lines between art and design, such as Ettore Sottsass and Verner Panton.

Arne Jacobson created an egg chair that looks like it came out of a sci-fi film set in space. That same year, he designed the Ant chair, which was inspired by a beetle’s shell. It wasn’t until later on, when other creatives added their personal touch, that this style became what it is today: timeless and chic.

7.- Create a well-balanced Mid-Century Modern design

While Mid-century Modern furniture can be a great addition to any home’s interior design, it can also be difficult to decorate with. If you go too far, you could end up with a kitschy appearance. If you don’t do anything at all, your house will seem stale and uninspiring. So try to establish a balance between the old and the modern.

If you’re new to mid-century design, these tips will get you started! Establishing a well-balanced design starts with finding the perfect mid-century furniture pieces. Look for items that are both stylish and functional. Then, add in some accents that will give your space a touch of personality.

Opposites attract, so play with them.

Opposites attract, so why not play with them in your living space? A low-lying piece of furniture, like a mid-century rectangular sideboard, looks great with an exquisite arch floor light. The contrast between the two pieces can dramatically affect your interior design.

And it’s not just Opposites that attract; different components that are different in heights, widths, and lengths can also add visual interest to your space. So don’t be afraid to mix and match different pieces of furniture and accessories to create a unique and stylish living space.

Add layers

A room with a flat, one-dimensional design can be depressing. An easy way to make your home look stunning is by adding a contemporary twist of layers to your interior design. You can use different types of layouts, floor coverings, accent materials, upholstered and non-upholstered furniture, and lighting to create a seven-layer design. 

To start, you can replace your flooring and add an area rug. Rugs can add texture and dimension to a room. If you want a mid-century modern look, consider adding hardwood floors. You can also paint your walls and ceiling or use wallpapers. Add one or two pieces of upholstered furniture, like a sofa or armchair. Then, you can add non-upholstered furniture, like coffee tables and end tables. Add decorations and lights to the room to finish the look. Mix and match different kinds of textiles

Your space may come to life with the use of different materials. The answer to balancing fabrics is to use a variety of textures, such as velvet, silk, twill, wool, jute, and cotton, in addition to patterns and flowers. There are many possibilities, and you’ll quickly learn what works for you once you start exploring.

If you have pets, read our guide on How to choose the Best Pet-Friendly Rug and our guide on 11 Best Pet-Friendly Fabrics for Furniture

Include Greenery

Mid-century modern interior design was all about creating a more environmentally conscious home. One of the ways designers achieved this goal was by including greenery in the design. Plants help to remove toxins from the air, making it healthier for residents.

In addition, they can also help to brighten up any room. Potted plants are a great way to add a touch of nature to any space, and they can be used to create a unique aesthetic. When selecting plants for your home, be sure to choose species known for their air-purifying properties, avoid plants that harm pets, and opt for pet-friendly houseplants.

The Ideal Color Scheme

The Ideal Color Scheme for mid-century modern may be a challenge. Still, it’s definitely possible to establish a strategy that will leave you satisfied with the end outcome. Instead of repainting the walls, think about your existing furniture and how you may rearrange it.

Also, don’t forget to use accessories and textures to create contrast. The key is to use colors that complement each other while still allowing the individual pieces to shine. With a little bit of creativity, you can easily achieve the perfect mid-century modern aesthetic in your home.

Hire a Professional interior designer at Havenly to Help You Decorate your Mid-Century Modern room!

Hiring a professional interior designer at Havenly is a great way to start your mid-century modern room design. With a free consultation, you can learn more about our team of interior designers and how they can help you achieve the perfect look for your home.

Any interior designer of ours is experienced in working with all types of retro-inspired furniture and accessories. They can help you select the right pieces to complement your unique style. In addition, they can provide guidance on paint colors, wall coverings, and flooring options that will complete the look of your room. With Havenly’s help, you can easily turn your vision for a retro-inspired dream house into reality.

Design a Mid-Century Modern Room – FAQ

When was the mid-century modern period?

The mid-century modern period encompasses the years from roughly 1933 to 1965. This style emerged in the aftermath of the Great Depression and World War II, and it continued to be popular through the 1960s.

When did the midcentury modern movement begin?

The midcentury modern movement began in the United States in the 1930s and continued until the 1960s. This style emerged from the ashes of the Great Depression and World War II and was a popular style through the 1960s.

Is a coffee table a core piece in mid century modern living rooms?

Yes, a coffee table is a core piece in mid century modern living rooms because it helps to create a focal point in the space. Additionally, coffee tables are typically low to the ground, which is in keeping with the mid century modern aesthetic.