Mid-century modern literally means "mid-century modern". This style arose in the period after the Second World War, when the functionality and style of Art Nouveau were still relevant, but people wanted to make the interiors psychologically warmer and more comfortable. Now this style is back in trend and this is not surprising: it is energizing, comfortable, has a bright personality and fits well with our modern expectations from the interior. Let's see, without which ideological things the style of mid-century modern would not have become itself.
Open floor plan and minimalism
Mid-twentieth-century designers were inspired by the minimalism of Scandinavian and Brazilian interiors: less visual debris, more air and open space. The style is characterized by open layouts, in which one zone smoothly flows into another. Ideally, this feeling should be supported by large windows - from floor to ceiling - so that the interior goes beyond the house, does not have clear boundaries.
Minimalism in mid-century modern calls for less furniture and decor, but it is important that each item be special and worthy of attention.
Furniture that has become legendary
For the period of 50-60 years of the last century, there was a real furniture boom. Technological development has made it possible to make furniture, appliances and decor items from artificial materials. For example, plastic has become widespread. There are many new, more streamlined forms. The novelties were also made from familiar materials, but the look at the design was still fresh and unusual.
Here are just a few of the pieces of furniture that are now considered design classics: the armchair, the plastic Panton chair by Verner Panton and the Tulip Table by Eero Saarinen.
chair Eames Lounge Chair,
Tulip Table
It is not necessary that all furniture in a modern mid-century modern style should be legendary, but, nevertheless, it is better to follow the canons. Cabinets, chests of drawers, tables and even sofas and armchairs should be made of wood and stand on thin, wide-spaced legs - single or double, in the form of hairpins.
splashes of color
The basic range of style looks very calm and creates an atmosphere of reliability and confidence - what people needed in that historical period. The interiors are dominated by natural colors: white, gray, brown, dark green, beige, sand. They set an excellent background for bright decor and textiles with active patterns. For accents, you can use warm shades: terracotta, orange, mustard, swamp green. Appropriate in the style of mid-century modern plum, burgundy, sky blue, gold, avocado color.
In the 50-60s. pop culture dominated, it also manifested itself in interiors. Therefore, bright works in the style of Andy Warhol and pop art posters with comic book characters will be natural in mid-century modern.
Unusual lamps
In the mid-century modern style, lamps performed not only a functional role, but also a decorative one. There are more light sources: instead of one chandelier in the center of the ceiling, they began to use the division into light zones with the help of floor lamps and table lamps. The lights themselves were amazing. Many of them, like furniture, are now classified as classics.
amazing patterns
In the middle of the last century, people stopped being afraid to experiment with prints: many bold decisions and combinations appeared. Patterns of geometric shapes and abstractions were especially popular, but patterns of unexpected and bizarre objects, such as lamps or men, were not uncommon. Colored wallpaper with a geometric print, of course, should not be pasted over all the walls in the room, but for one accent wall they are perfect. Patterns can be on the fabric, and even as abstract posters on the walls.
Photos: cutypaste.com, daniellenoce.com, homeadore.com, waldfriedenstate.com, coachdecostyle.com, thepich.com, pinterest.com
The unceasing love for the style of the middle of the last century is quite natural: clear lines, emphasized functionality, deep colors and a fresh mix of various materials free the style from time and rigid rules. Simple, aesthetic, very comfortable - mid-century modern fits into the modern lifestyle like no other with our speed and living in apartment buildings.
Origins and development of mid-century modern
Bauhaus style interior design
The history of the style begins in the 40s of the XX century, when representatives of the German Bauhaus school emigrated to America during World War II, preferring functional design and abandoning the unnecessary luxury of classical styles.
The war and the post-war reconstruction led to massive changes in the economy and technology. At this time, cities were growing in the states, the need for modern furniture for new, quickly built houses with open floor plans, huge windows and natural light increased. Technological advances have led to the development of new materials allowing for new textures, colors and shapes.
Look, for example, at one of the houses, repeating the style of the iconic architect in the 50s of the last century, Joseph Eichler. Optimal use of a small space, a deep connection with nature, a comfortable, cozy courtyard.
Representatives of mid-century modern adhered to the following rules:
Functionality comes first, design follows and adjusts to function
The post-war economy changed the focus of consumption in the average American family. Most of the furniture had to fold, unfold, transform, interchange and follow only one principle - to be comfortable.
Clean, smooth lines of simple geometric shapes
The clean and modern look of the rooms comes from simple lines and smooth surfaces. For style, geometric minimalism is important, each detail of which serves a specific function and is in its place. Large and heavy furniture has been replaced by light and airy spaces with neat proportions.
Use of different, sometimes contrasting materials
The post-war surge of new materials, especially plastics and organic glass, inspired designers to experiment. Natural and artificial materials freely connected with each other in the same room or even object.
Mid-century designers loved to mix traditional materials such as wood, metal and glass with non-traditional materials such as vinyl, plywood, plexiglass (organic glass), plastic, fiberglass. For the first time, plastic was used not as an imitation of more expensive materials (like wood), but on its own.
Wide range of colors
Mid-Century Modern is a warm and optimistic style that envelops the hosts with its comfort thanks to the positive color scheme. The choice is unlimited.
Combine warm natural colors: olive green and burnt grass, mustard and pumpkin, clove and poppy. Use deep stylish shades: flashy pink, rich gray, turquoise, graphic black. Add traditional colors: burgundy, blue, emerald green. Don't forget bright sugar shades for plastic items and textiles. Yes, and do not interfere with bare textures: wood, metal, marble, concrete, brickwork.
Various textures
Textures and patterns are very important to any contemporary minimalist style. Warm carpets, stone fireplaces, a smooth glass table, ceramic tiles, a plastic armchair, leather upholstery, a straw pouffe and geometric patterned textiles make the room even more interesting. Bright abstract patterns appear on paintings, pillows, accessories.
geometric lighting
Floor lamps or geometric chandeliers follow two rules: either round, curved contours or straight, clean lines. As a rule, lighting objects are made of metal, but sometimes there are wooden legs. Unique lamps do not just do their job, but are a kind of work of art.
You can mix individual pieces of furniture or lighting with other interior styles.
Unique furniture
The furniture of that time stands out for its straight, clean lines, the combination of different materials, with smooth curved corners. Definitely on thin legs. Minimalist designs often use a wood base, but can include fiberglass, plastic, and metal. Such furniture is universal and fits into any style of interior.
The most amazing thing about the style in question is that the iconic pieces are universal, recognizable, fresh and relevant even after so many years. Look, for example, at the most popular style items: the Eames chair and the Egg Chair.
Chair by Charles and Ray Eames
Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen
The mid-century style is so good that it attracts attention even after many years. Modern designers often borrow and rethink the elements and objects of style, re-filling them with life. Lively and fresh - mid-century can look very modern, or it can help you create a retro look. Add to this beauty and functionality, as well as a favor for eclecticism, and you already have a trendy and cozy decor for many years.
Interior decor is a great opportunity to create your dream home, embodying your ideas about aesthetics, ergonomics and comfort. Creating decor with our own hands, we put a piece of our own soul into our houses and apartments, making them original and individual. But in order for the resulting interior to look truly harmonious and stylish, inspiration is needed. You will find it on the pages of our site. Choosing the decor of a kitchen or apartment, we often strive to make it as functional as possible. However, many people forget that, for example, the kitchen is not only a place for cooking, but also a room where the whole family gathers for friendly, warm communication. That is why the kitchen decor photos presented on our website are designed to help you make the right choice. Are there universal criteria by which you should choose the decor of a kitchen or apartment? Of course no. Each apartment, each room is unique, and therefore needs a thorough study of its features. However, the designers have developed a few simple tips for choosing the best interior solutions: the decor of the apartment must match the spirit of its owner - only in this way can it bring the owner a sense of peace and pleasure from relaxation; it is necessary to decorate the interior based on the architectural features of the room: you can not use an abundance of dark elements or stucco in small rooms, as well as decorate impressive rooms with small objects in the Provence style; it is necessary to select materials, decor and interior items based on the developed style of the room and fully suit it, otherwise a feeling of dissonance and discomfort will be created. Creating an apartment decor is not as easy as it seems. But looking through a selection of interior design ideas on our website, you will certainly find something to your taste! Creating interior decor with your own hands is not only fashionable, but also very interesting! Take a look at the photo of interior decor and you will understand what real beauty is in hand-made style. Hand-painted caskets, cabinets and tables decorated with decoupage, original decorations and accessories for the kitchen and apartment - everything that will help you update the interior at no extra cost, making it bright and memorable! Photos of apartment decor collected on the pages of our website are a storehouse of unusual ideas for decorating your home. Perhaps there are no more diverse options for transforming rooms than decor. It includes many ways to decorate the interior: painting walls and furniture; stone and forged elements; stained glass; carved decor; macrame and hand embroidery decorations; flower arrangements and more. Decor doesn't have to be expensive. To update, for example, a living room, it is enough to replace textiles (curtains, blankets, tablecloths), decorate walls and shelves with a couple of new decorations (pictures and figurines) similar to textiles in style, and instead of the usual wooden coffee table, use a funny pouffe of a catchy shade - " lively” and the colorful interior is ready. Decor elements in the interior occupy a dominant position. The smallest details can radically transform the space. That is why it is so important that the surrounding decor is pleasant for you and makes you feel comfortable. Look for inspiration, create and enjoy it with us.
Mid-century modern - comfortable design comes from the 20th century
Comfort is, perhaps, the main wish of people who equip the interior. Open bright space, natural materials, bright colors and smooth shapes are also the wishes of many. For their implementation, mid-century modern style furniture was created.
Peculiarities
This unusual style appeared in the middle of the 20th century. Therefore, everything in it is a reflection of the spirit of that time. So, mid-century modern furniture is:
models with thin elegant legs;
extremely simple and clear lines;
elongated forms;
compactness and low height of interior elements (even tables with chairs are made a few centimeters lower than usual, so that there is more free space both visually and actually).
In addition, all mid-century modern furniture is designed by designers in such a way that it is minimally striking, while remaining a pleasant and functional background.
Color solutions
Mid-century modern also has preferred color schemes. Most often these are warm “earthy” tones:
Orange;
terracotta;
marsh;
Brown;
mustard.
Bright accents in such furniture are also present. It is very important not to overdo it with their number. Moderation and precise dosage will allow bright accents to slightly “cheer up” the interior design. In general, the room will look cozy, stylish and comfortable.
Range
The iModern online store offers mid-century modern furniture at an attractive price. It is worth paying attention to the elegant sets of upholstered furniture.
A luxurious sofa on thin legs with spectacular patterned upholstery and a pair of ergonomic chairs will appeal to everyone who loves beauty and comfort. You can also pick up a sofa that is sold “solo”. And armchairs, complemented by ottomans, are an amazingly relaxing solution.
And how about a bedroom furniture set that will please you with convenience and a pleasant appearance?
It is worth paying attention to lunch groups (including - for 2 persons).
Coffee tables and chests of drawers, bedside tables, chairs, pouffes, banquettes - details that will make the room even more comfortable and ergonomic.
In addition to furniture, mid-century modern also includes extraordinary mirrors that are used not only for their intended purpose. These are also original decorative elements. In the living space, they will not be superfluous.
How to buy?
It is very easy to place an order in the iModern online store:
1. If you have made your choice, you can simply put the items you like in the shopping cart and complete your purchase.
2. If you have any questions, you can always ask our specialists: by e-mail, in the feedback form, by ordering a call back. The manager will help and place an order.
If the furniture is in stock, delivery from iModern is very fast.