Style Spotlight

Mid-Century Modern

Mid-century Modern is a design style term that is used very frequently in the design world these days - but what exactly does Mid-century Modern design entail? And, why is it still so popular, even 50+ years after its origin?

Mid-Century Modern design began post World War II, when materials such as fiberglass, plastic, plywood, and metal started becoming readily available to the public. The new growing middle class wanted clean, functional spaces without unnecessary ornamentation. Architects and designers responded to and embraced these goals. They pushed boundaries with clean lines and organic molded forms and juxtaposed new materials with rich woods - ultimately creating a design style that was functional, elegant, and that celebrated simplicity.

The Mid-Century Modern we see so much of these days is more of an “inspired by” the Mid-Century Modern of the 1950s. Throughout the years, designers have gravitated away from the manmade materials for Mid-Century Modern furniture, instead focusing on the warmth that natural materials bring. The clean lines and organic forms have continued, creating timeless interiors that can blend and adapt with different styles.

This is why we still see so much of Mid-Century Modern furniture these days - their elegant functionality and thoughtful aesthetics works well with a variety of other furniture and architectural styles. The elegant simplicity balances out ornamentation from other styles, the rich wood tones add a natural warmth element to the interior space, and the craftsmanship quality of the pieces is a refreshing change from the mass produced furniture pieces we are surrounded by these days. Mid-Century Modern design may feel trendy at times, with big box stores trying to replicate what designers achieved in the past, but this design style is one that has stood the test of time, adapting and evolving as we do, and will continue to remain a timeless style.