Mid-century modern interiors

What is Mid Century Modern Interior Design?

Mid century modern interior design is recognised for integrating sleek lines with organic shapes, making use of new materials, and techniques to reimagine conventional and traditional décor pieces. Rooted in the Industrial Revolution and Post-War Era, the emergence of mid-century modern interior design style began in the middle of the 20th century in America, taking shape in the 1930s and lasting through the 1960s.

The whole vibe and aesthetics of mid century decorating style brought the geometric structures and clean lines of the Bauhaus teachings into the Modernist movement, pioneered by iconic designers including Le Corbusier, Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe, to name a few. The architecture is instantly recognizable by its retro style and fusion of manmade and organic materials.

Signature Features of a Mid-century Modern Home

There are some signature characteristics of a mid century modern house interior. For example, most authentic mid-century interior furniture is made from teakwood, because of its durability and colour. Let’s dive into some of the primary characteristics of mid century modern interior design style homes.

• The furniture is minimal and sleek
• There is a versatile colour palette
• Elevated furniture lends a spacious look
• Soft curves and sharp lines go together
• Easy to blend with other interior design styles

2. Opt for Clean Lines

“Form follows function” is the mantra of the story with mid-century modern decorations. Concentrate on finding pieces of modern furniture that are appealing yet comfortable and livable. By no way does that mean that form isn’t significant. In a minimalist mid century modern living room, kitchen, or bedroom design, focus on clean, sleek lines in your furniture. These clean lines will help appeal to the minimalist side of this mid century interior style.

3. Welcome the Colours

The mid century modern interior also promotes a fresh take on colour: This includes furniture, interior design style and even architectural facades. Incorporate bright, cheerful colours (red, blue, yellow, and white) and creamy pastels (Calamine-lotion pink, pastel turquoise, and minty green). Even though mid century interior décor colours are stunning in modern-day room designs, floor-to-ceiling coverage can turn out to be a little dangerous or tacky. However, accent walls, as well as decorative accessories and upholstery, are still fair game. 

4. Go for Tailored Upholstery

Subtle and clean lines are the symbol of the movement, i.e no unnecessary decorations or ornamentation. This concept is conferred to upholstery fabrics, styles, and techniques. Switch from overstuffed and skirted pieces to tightly-tailored cushions with details like button tufting, corded welting and channel backs. Organic and synthetic materials symbolic of the period also include those with screen-printed patterns and stubby textures.

5. Wood Tones are a Must-have

Irrespective of what other design styles you’re mixing with mid century interior design style, or something else (Scandinavian, or otherwise), wood tones are a must have. From the tapered legs of chairs and sofas to credenzas, bar cabinets, and dining tables, do not hesitate to include plenty of wood tones (and even to mix wood tones). Acorn, teak, or natural light birch finishes are most famous in mid century modern interior homes, however, you can also opt for a dark walnut finish in statement elements.

6. Bring in Some Plants

Plants introduce life and warmth to clean-lined spaces that would otherwise feel bland, offering a refreshing touch of nature that complements various home interior design ideas. Very often, potted plants serve as living sculptures. Hunt for handmade, vintage architectural pots that add nature to your space while being visually gorgeous.

7. Incorporate Flat Panel Cabinetry

For the kitchen, flat-front, or slab cabinet doors are the most acceptable style since mid century interior design style is not so fussy. You could also choose wide-open shelving in a striking, bold colour—as the open shelving screams clean, organised surfaces. Solid-wood and wood-veneer doors that show natural wood grain, as well as painted-wood cabinetry, are all fantastic modern options.

8. Play with Patterns

Patterns like diamonds, starbursts, and boomerangs were very famous when mid-century design first hit the stage. So, integrating these patterns into your mid century modern interior home can give it a beautiful retro vibe. You can also do a less literal take on mid-century modern decorations with other geometric patterns and prints.