Mid Century Modern Design: A Timeless and Chic Style Guide

Even if you’re not a design aficionado, chances are you’ve heard of mid century modern design and have most likely been in a room featuring the design style at one point in your life or another. And for good reason - this is a timeless, forever-chic design direction that never seems to lose traction or covetability. But what does it mean? Let's delve into the world of mid century modern design to understand its popularity and how to master it effortlessly.

What Does Mid Century Modern Mean?

Though the term mid century modern wasn’t coined until the mid-80s, the era represents a combination of post-World War II practicality, 50s era optimism, 60s era earthiness, and 70s era tones and textures neatly wrapped up in a stylish ode to Scandinavian simplicity. It was a reaction to the decadence and gilt-adorned stuffiness of interior design and architecture through the 40s, offering a fresh and poppy, retro-tinged design that never goes out of style. Unlike other aesthetic movements, mid century modern decor highlights function and materials, making it streamlined and timeless.

Why You’ll Love Mid Century Modern Interiors

• Mid century modern design is great for those looking to add authentic vintage styling to their homes without going all-out retro.
• Creating mid century modern homes is fun and a great way to bring even the smallest of spaces to life with design quirks.
• The perfect mid century modern house boasts charming decor, practicality, and durability - all easy on the eye.
• This era allows for more freedom and is less restricting than other design styles.

How Do You Create Mid Century Modern Style?

To effortlessly inject mid century modern design into your home, pay attention to these key architectural details:

• Keep everything structured, practical, and durable, with slight design flourishes for added interest.
• Bring natural elements into the room, such as exposed beams, wood panels, and untouched brick walls, to connect with the outdoors.
• Add character with abstract prints, patterns, and art that are free of cultural references.
• Embrace an overall casual and lounge-ready vibe, while keeping the design relaxed and unpretentious.

Mid Century Modern Colors

Mid century modern design reflects the energy and direction of each era it encompasses. The kitschy, bright hues of the 50s evoke optimism, while the natural woods, greens, oranges, and earthy tones of the 60s and 70s add sophistication. When incorporating mid century modern style into your home, use the color scheme as a starting point. Choose moodier hues like burnt sage, orange, and rust for a mid century modern living room, and playful colors like turquoise, sunny yellow, bright orange, and primary colors for other rooms. Ground each room with sobering neutrals to keep the mix balanced.

Mid Century Modern Style Furniture

Clean lines, simplicity, practicality, and sumptuous silhouettes are the hallmarks of mid century modern design. Consider using materials like plastic, acrylic, and formica for furniture. Look for furniture pieces with hairpin legs, low streamlined seating, plastic shell chairs, cocooning lounges, matte finishes, and consoles with plain surfaces punctuated by design flourishes.

Mid Century Modern Textiles

Mid century modern home decor often features naïve, playful, and abstract prints. To bring this style into the present, incorporate fabrics and textiles inspired by the era in small doses. A statement-making curtain or a single throw pillow can add a touch of retro without overwhelming the space. Use pillows, throws, linens, and drapes to channel the era's spirit without appearing trapped in a time warp.

Mid Century Modern Style Accessories

Accessories are a great way to have fun with mid century modern design while maintaining flexibility. Keep surfaces spare and simple, and bring in a few unique decorative pieces that stand on their own. If you're on a budget, explore local flea markets, secondhand shops, and online auction houses for rare finds that will bring your mid century modern house fantasies to life. In living rooms and common areas, source decorative extras that evoke the 50s and 60s in saturated colors, such as porcelain vases, sculptures, and wall hangings with graphic shapes.

Mid Century Modern Window Treatments

With mid century modern design emphasizing natural elements and the outdoors, make the most of your windows. Choose sheer solid drapes, blinds, or window treatments that can be easily retracted to let in natural light and enjoy the view. Even though mid century modern home decor focuses on clean lines and playful pops of color and print, opt for neutral window treatments that are simple and symmetrical for a modern take on the style.

Mid Century Modern Style Room by Room

By now, you have a good understanding of mid century modern decor, but how do you bring it to life in each room of your home?

Mid Century Modern Kitchen

Creating an authentic mid century modern kitchen can be challenging, but you can add bright pops of color, small vintage appliances, and decorative extras to achieve a warm and practical space. Incorporate high-shine or matte finishes, cheery primary colors, and dark natural wood into your mid century modern kitchen color palette.

Mid Century Modern Dining Room

No matter the structural style of your home, you can bring mid century modern design into your dining room. Mix sturdy Danish-inspired furniture with moody hues and feminine curves to create a unique and connected space.

Mid Century Modern Living Room

Communal areas, like the living room, are perfect for showcasing mid century modern design with comfortable furnishings and brilliant design. Focus on the harmony between furnishings and objects, and bring in statement-making pieces for depth and subtle nuances. Add unexpected elements that share a similar aesthetic and silhouette to make your space unique.

Mid Century Modern Bedroom

Create a genderless mid century modern bedroom with clean lines, muted tones, and texture plays. Look for timeless and handsome nightstands, headboards, and bedframes in Danish-inspired designs. Add extras like oversized chairs and multi-arm floor lamps to introduce playful silhouettes throughout the room.

Mid Century Modern Bathroom

While a bathroom may not be the typical room for mid century modern home decor, you can still incorporate the style through small details. Add touches like custom vanities, canvas wall hangings, and mid century modern stools to create a rich and layered look.

With these tips and insights, you're ready to master mid century modern design effortlessly. Embrace the timeless charm and practicality of this style to create a home that is truly one-of-a-kind.