feature image via Emily Henderson
You’ve probably noticed that mid century furniture is showing up everywhere these days, and there is a reason for this. The mid century aesthetic is timeless. It boasts warm woods, cozy layers, enough minimalism to open up the space, and modern shapes. It can be incorporated in almost any style home and fit right in. So today, I’m showing you the features of mid century modern design to use in your home.
So, let’s talk about what makes up a mid century modern design, shall we? Then I’ll show you different ways to use these features to perk up your own space. The goal is to make your space modern and timeless, but in this case, the best way to do that is my incorporating classic vintage style. Mid century modern is a great style to adopt because it will be timeless, and if you buy something vintage, you know it will be quality.
Features of Mid Century Modern Design
- Minimalist but layered
- Natural elements
- Clean lines and simple shapes
Minimalism is nothing new; Scandinavian design has been really popular lately in home decor. But mid century minimalism is different than the Danish minimalism of today. Danish minimalism is also about natural elements, clean lines, and simple shapes, but the lines are more geometric and the colors are darker shades of gray.
Because Scandinavian design uses more geometric furniture, resulting in harsh edges, it might feel more modern but it can also feel cold and uninviting. Mid century modern design is quite the opposite. Features of mid century design include some great layers of warmth and natural elements like wood, stone, or metals. The furniture shapes are simple with clean lines, putting the eye at ease and allowing it to settle right in. Mid century modern design is just more homey.
via Architectural Digest
Ways to Add Mid Century Modern Design to Your Home
- Classic shaped side chairs around a coffee table
- Wood paneling, stone feature, and/or metal accents
- Simple furnishings with statement art
You can have the same aesthetic by following those 3 features of mid century modern design and 3 ways to add mid century modern design to your home. Because these furniture pieces are so classic, many retailers are producing modern versions. As a result, you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars and tons of time sourcing legit vintage pieces. I’ll do a post soon on my favorite mid century modern furniture pieces that you can buy right now. But for now, I’ll show you some spaces that help you understand the look we are going for.
via Elle Decor
Take this room for example: it is a great neutral space that feels light and airy (which is what our modern selves want these days). The living room features clean lined furniture surrounding a central coffee table, a lot of wood elements, but also modern accessories like the silver scull sculpture on the bench. This space has a lot going on, ample seating, a lot of textural layers, but it still feels expansive and minimal.
via The Spruce
This dining room combines gorgeous wood paneling (it’s not out of style, guys; I’ll write a post on that later), classic style chairs, but a modern farmhouse table, woven wall hanging, and beaded chandelier. This space mixes mid century design elements with a modern bohemian style. It works out great.
via Elle Decor
I’m obsessed with this light wood paneling. This speaks to the modern Scandinavian aesthetic with the use of light wood and natural fiber rug. The tufting on the sofa and the leather and wood club chairs are classic mid century modern design. All furnishings are clean silhouettes and although a gray/neutral palette, the space has enough warmth to still feel good. The floor lamp looks like something you would find at IKEA, as well as the metal coffee table. This space does a great job marrying Scandinavian and mid century styles.
via Clever
This cute dining area is my favorite. It’s has the most classic mid century modern design. I love the Saarinen-esque table, the wishbone chairs, the wooden sideboard. The repetition of blue and orange and the mix of modern and vintage art.
The mid century modern design aesthetic is known for its democratic aspect, which really just means it’s designed for everyone. And it truly is! That’s why all these furnishings work in so many differently styled homes. The mid century modern pieces appeal to vintage lovers because of their history, and modern lovers because of the clean lines and pops of color.
What do you think? Does your home have any features of mid century modern design?
-Kristen
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