Independent Design Magazine
READING

Mid-century interior design, is it back already?

Mid-century interior design, is it back already?

Mid-century interior style-Image-by-Emma-Lewi

Over the years, fashion trends have been consequently going back and forth. We see old trends coming back to life while modern ones quickly have gone obsolete. Mid-century furniture for example was popular between the years of 1933 to 1965. Nowadays, the retro style is getting a lot of hype among designers. Designers now are all inspired by the clear lines and perfect curves from the mid-century interior design.

If you want to add a retro touch to your house, follow up with the main features of the mid-century interior design:

Materiality

One significant feature about the mid-century furniture is the prominent materiality. Wood was mainly used and exposed in furnishing. After World War II, artists applied new materials like plastic, plywood and glass.

Photo by David Papazian
Photo by David Papazian
Exposed wooden material in mid-century interiors- Photo from: freshome.com
Exposed wooden material in mid-century interiors- Photo from: freshome.com

Bright colours

From bright hues to earthy colours, the mid-century palette ranges between different high saturated colors. So now do not hold back from expressing yourself by adding your favourite colour to your space.

Designer: Cynthia Prizant
Designer: Cynthia Prizant
Bright coloured furniture- Photo from: rootrealtyjax.com
Bright coloured furniture- Photo from: rootrealtyjax.com

Bold patterns and textures

Before mid-century era, the interiors where mostly dull and plain. Thus, one of the main aesthetics of this era is the bold patterns and textures. Don’t hesitate to use bold patterned fabrics or cushions that will give your furnishing a special essence. Moreover, you can add a modernized vibe by including abstract figures.

Mid-century patterned interior- Photo from Elle Decor
Photo from Elle Decor
Finch Mid-century patterned interior- Photo from FinchLondon.comLondon
Mid-century patterned interior- Photo from FinchLondon.com

Nature and minimalism

Remarkably mid century style was all about sleek lines and perfect curves. When decorating, there is no room for maximal ornamentation. Other significant feature of this era is the integration with natural elements like natural lights and plants along with earthy colors and exposed wood.

Implementing natural plants in interior- Photo from: inspirationdesignbooks.com
Implementing natural plants in interior- Photo from: inspirationdesignbooks.com
Exposed wood materials and natural light- Photo from: Houzz.com
Exposed wood materials and natural light- Photo from: Houzz.com

Accessories

A pro tip: Do not keep your furnishing at the same height. Preferably you should mix up between different heights in your space. This can be done through adding refreshing accessories. Whether it’s a statement lamp, clock or artwork, always go bold when decorating your retro space. Moreover, you can add a special touch by implementing a bar cart that can give modern and also nostalgic vibe.

Source: Barker & Stonehouse
Source: Barker & Stonehouse
Mid-century bar cart- Photo from: hayneedle.com
Mid-century bar cart- Photo from: hayneedle.com

Mid-century significant designers

Ray and Charles Eames were a couple who changed the face of furniture design. They were iconic designers of the mid-century design era. They created lovely Californian chairs which are now symbols of the movement. The Eames’ work featured using new technologies like creating plastic resin and wire mesh chairs. Important to mention that their main aim was about getting most of the best to the greatest number of people for the least amount of money. Other designers like George Nelson, Jens Risom, and Hans Wegner were also major contributors to mid-century modern furniture style.

Mid Century Modern: “Lounge Chair with Ottoman” by Ray and Charles Eames for Herman Mil.-Photo by: 1stDib
Mid Century Modern: “Lounge Chair with Ottoman” by Ray and Charles Eames for Herman Mil.-Photo by: 1stDib
Mid Century Modern Molded Plastic and Fiberglass Armchair by by Ray and Charles Eames. Photo by Herman Miller
Mid Century Modern Molded Plastic and Fiberglass Armchair by by Ray and Charles Eames. Photo by Herman Miller
Hans Wegner shell chair
Hans Wegner shell chair
Jens Risom mid-century design: collection_04
Jens Risom mid-century design: collection_04

No doubt that the mid-century design movement made a remarkable change in the design history. Whether you want to add a nostalgic vibe to your space, or prefer to know more about the features of modern furniture, we got you covered!


An architect who’s passionate about movies, design, and advertising. Living for the art of storytelling in different ways, and always seeking to write inspiring stories about good things in the world.

RELATED POST