Skip to content

What’s the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

Furniture from the mid century is typically the preferred interior design choice for people who are well-informed however, when the TV program Mad Men hit our screens 2007 a whole new crowd of people became enthralled by its enticing style. Since then, it’s become an ever-present feature in commercial and residential settings all over the world.

If you’re wondering about this trending interior design style specifically, it was born as a design trend which was born in America and its design for furniture is distinguished by straight, clean edges, tapered leg as well as the utilization of natural and artificial materials. The palette of colors is cool with teals, blues and greys with pops of color such as burning orange, mustard, and olive green. Geometric prints provide a sophisticated yet striking pattern.

What is the era that mid-century modern furniture originate from?

It’s generally believed that it spans from late 1920s until the mid-1960s. Some condense it down to a much smaller period of 1947 through 1957, but this doesn’t include the iconic pieces like the Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Barcelona chair, as well as the famous designs of Eames (more on these later). But the movement actually was born in the post-war timeframe.

The conclusion of World War II coincided with an array of innovative ways in which wood was utilized, and manufacturers and designers used to their advantage , transforming furniture from practical to the practical as well as comfortable and visually appealing. The new design trend was fresh and not overly gaudy or slick without looking dull. It was a reflection of the positive spirit of the moment and provided a means that people could express their feelings within their home.

Who are the major designers of furniture that is mid-century contemporary?

One of the pioneers to initiate the modern design movement of the mid-century is Ludwig Mies van Der Rohe. one of his most well-known pieces was the Barcelona chair that he designed in 1929. He was an architect by profession however his desire in ensuring structural strength and functionality to be as crucial as his aesthetics were incorporated into the furniture designs he created.

More as sculptures than furniture Harry Bertoia’s furniture is immediately recognized because of its fluid lines, elegant forms and chairs that in truth, don’t appear like chairs. The Diamond chair is his most famous creation and is still made by Knoll in the present. According to Knoll the historian Brian Lutz once said: “Bertoia’s painting was better than his sculptures. His sculptures were also better that his furniture. His furniture was amazing.’

When we imagine midcentury contemporary furniture they imagine Charles as well as Ray Eames, the husband-and-wife pair who set out to design comfortable chairs at an affordable price. They designed iconic pieces such like the DCW chairs, and their style is recognizable by its plywood molded construction, and the use of vivid colors.

Danish designer Arne Jacobsen was a different architect who made the move to furniture design. He was also involved in creating his own SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen and all the details inside brought the world to his futuristic Egg footstool and chair in 1958. It was followed by the Swan as well as the Ant chairs followed, and are staples in hotels, homes and commercial spaces since then.

What’s the difference between midcentury and modern mid-century?

Mid-century modern and Midcentury modern are frequently employed as a synonym in the design world of interiors There is a distinct distinction. Mid-century modern is a reference to the style that gained popularity following World War Two in 1945 and Mid-century refers to a style that first emerged in the 1930s.

While they are both similar in terms of their shapes and styles, the major differences are in the choice of colors. In the years prior to war and the years after furniture was strictly functional. Shapes were picked to make use of the least amount of wood and color was a practical choice, hence all the dark greens and browns employed in those times. Post-war , the necessity of functionality was still there, but designers started to play with fabrics and colors, and were influenced by Danish as well as Scandinavian countries.

Are mid-century modern furnishings still in fashion?

Yes, modern mid-century furniture and its overall design continues to be one of the most sought-after styles of interior design to date.

Modern mid-century furniture appeals to the masses mostly because of its flexibility and the ability to blend style and purpose. The perfect balance of style, comfort and function has been crucial to maintain mid-century design’s popularity.

The forms of mid-century contemporary furniture are timeless and it can be paired with any style. There’s nothing that would clash with different styles of décor but its basic softly curled, beautifully tapered lines soft enough to blend with all styles.

Mid-century modern furniture is simple to find and accessible at all prices is another indication of its popularity. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for original antique pieces like those of Eames, Ercol, and Arne Jacobsen, authentic contemporary pieces from authorized stores, replicas, or fresh takes on classic designs, they’re all easy to find.

What wood is used to make furniture of the mid-century?

The wood that is most associated with contemporary furniture of the 20th century is teak. Dark, rich, and durable and widely recognized as a symbol of high quality, teak went perfectly with the vibrant colors of the era and was frequently employed for tables as well as desks and storage.

Oak was a different commonly-used wood, and, just like teak, is sturdy and long-lasting. Its pale shade makes it appear less imposing than teak and , as a result, it blends well with cooler, lighter shades of mid-century modern design.

It is lighter than oak, but not as heavy as beech, which is used most commonly to build the frames of sofas and chairs because of its strength and its shock resistance. Because it is a lighter wood, using beech for midcentury contemporary furniture is a clear reference to the movement’s Scandinavian influence.

The majority of chairs, like Eames’s Lounge Chair, were built with molded plywood, which was a relatively new method in the early days. This made it possible for designers to create iconic shapes that were interspersed with mid-century modern furniture while keeping pieces of furniture affordable.

1. Utilize colors that match mid century modern furniture

Picking a piece that is a standout of modern mid-century furniture like an armchair, with a yellow color (probably the most well-known mid-century modern shade) is the fastest and most striking way to get this look. If a bold decision isn’t your thing, accent with yellow vases and glass bottles and ensure that the rest of your design neutral so that the yellow shine.

2. Select bold art

Artwork that is eye-catching and abstract that matches the hues in your design will help tie the entire scheme together. Setting it off from the center of the wall creates a further level of intrigue while hanging it against a white background will ensure that it stands out and attracts the attention it deserves.

3. Create texture by rugs

Accentuate the sleek, fluid lines of your mid-century furniture by adding the addition of textural accents. Rugs under the table for dining or coffee can bring a more warm feeling, more cozier space, and is practical as well. Simple and clean to not hinder your furniture’s stunning style.

4. Mix various timbers

The combination of mid-toned and dark wood can give an informal living-in look to your design. Make sure that the walls and accessories are soft to let the various kinds of wood to leave their own mark.

5. Make cushions interesting by bringing them to life

The choice of a sofa that is colorful is a major decision and therefore, you should choose a neutral if it seems too overwhelming. You can also add some color with colorful cushions. Geometric patterns, paired with plain colors with mid-century blues, yellows and greens can do the trick. They’re also easy and inexpensive to replace frequently if you want to refresh.

6. Accentuate by using light

Pink Maximimalist living space with a pattern rug, sofa and starburst lighting

Starburst lighting is a crucial feature of mid-century modern style It is therefore a must to create the wow factor to your table for dining or a coffee table with a bold shade. If your furniture features metal components that are high in quality and is generally cool in appearance, opt for a silver finish on your lighting. If it’s mostly wood, with warmer hues within the upholstery, select gold to compliment your style.

7. Use wallpaper to incorporate pattern

Geometric patterns are an integral part of mid-century modern design so frame your most loved pieces of furniture using an eye-catching wallpaper. Reduce your accessories so that the furniture as well as walls be the the center stage.

8. Pick funky vases

Alongside abstract art Modern design of the mid-century was a fan of unusual vase. Designs with mixed shades, as well as those that have abstract faces might be an unexpected, but fun element to a design. Pick a mixture of different dimensions and then add an uncluttered side table for the greatest impact.

Featured News