Jaw-Dropping Mid-Century Modern Interior Design Ideas
In this guide to mid-century modern interior design, I’ll show you what pieces to look for and even how to create fun, unexpected corners of retro elegance in your home.
Mid-century modern (MCM) design may be most known for its rise in the 1940s-1960s but it’s a style that never goes out of style. This design style is cool, known for its functional furniture, and a blend of organic and man-made materials.
With my tips below, and a bit of furniture hunting, you can find amazing MCM pieces at thrift stores, yard sales, and even online.
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Let’s dive into how you can transform your space into a cool mid-century modern haven.
Understanding the Origin of Mid-Century Modern Design Style
Mid-century modern style came about after World War II when designers like Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, and George Nelson started experimenting with new materials and innovative designs.
They focused on creating furniture and decor that were not only beautiful but also practical and affordable for the average family.
Key Characteristics of Mid-Century Modern Design
Choosing the Right Furniture For Your Mid-Century Modern Home
Iconic Furniture Pieces
When it comes to furniture, there are some classic MCM pieces that can really make your space stand out:
Eames Lounge Chair
Comfortable and stylish, perfect for the living room.
Noguchi Coffee Table
With its sculptural base and glass top, it’s a statement piece.
Saarinen Tulip Table
Great for dining rooms, its sleek design eliminates the need for table legs.
Materials and Construction
Look for furniture made from wood (like teak or walnut), metal, and even plastic. The craftsmanship should be solid, as MCM pieces are known for their durability.
Where to Shop for Mid Century Modern Furniture
Color Palette and Patterns
Typical MCM Color Schemes
MCM style loves earthy tones like olive green, mustard yellow, and burnt orange. Mix these with contrasting accents like black, white, and bold primary colors to add some pop.
Patterns and Textures
Geometric patterns and abstract art are your friends here. Think about adding a geometric rug or some abstract throw pillows to bring in those classic MCM vibes. Don’t forget to use natural materials like wood and stone to add warmth and texture.
Lighting and Accessories
Lighting is crucial in MCM design. Here are some iconic fixtures to consider:
Sputnik Chandeliers:
These starburst-shaped chandeliers are perfect for a dramatic touch.
Floor Lamps:
Floor lamps are common in MCM design. Look at getting an arco lamp and a tripod lamp.
Pendant Lights:
Hang these over dining tables or kitchen islands for a sleek look.
Decorative Accessories
Accessories can really tie your room together. Here are some ideas:
- Sculptural Art Pieces: Look for abstract sculptures or wall art to add a focal point to your room.
- Retro Clocks and Mirrors: These not only serve a purpose but also add a touch of vintage charm.
- Coffee table books: about MCM art and design
- Textiles: Cushions, rugs, and throws with mid-century patterns (think geometric shapes and bold colors) can instantly update your space.
Shopping List for MCM Online Stores
Room-by-Room Styling Tips
1. MCM Living Room
To create a welcoming and stylish mid-century modern living room, focus on the following:
Keep things open and airy. Place your sofa and chairs to encourage conversation and avoid clutter.
Choose a few key pieces, like an Eames Lounge Chair or a Noguchi Coffee Table, and complement them with functional decor such as bookshelves or a media console.
2. MCM Dining Room
Your dining room can be a showcase for mid-century modern design:
Look for a sleek table with clean lines, like the Saarinen Tulip Table, paired with molded plastic or wooden chairs.
Integrate Sideboards and Credenzas: These pieces not only offer storage but also provide a great surface for displaying decorative items.
3. Bedroom
Make your bedroom a tranquil retreat with mid-century modern touches:
Opt for a platform bed with a wooden frame and bedside tables with tapered legs.
Choose simple, geometric patterned bedding and add a few retro lamps or a vintage alarm clock.
4. Home Office
A stylish and productive home office is easy to achieve:
Select a sturdy desk with a minimalist design and an ergonomic chair. Set up shelves to display your many books and fun MCM decor items.
Use shelving and storage solutions that blend seamlessly with your decor. Look for pieces with clean lines and natural materials.
5. Home Coffee Bar
A key element in mid-century modern interior design is to create dedicated spaces for specific functions. Think – the basement rumpus room with a home bar for parties.
Not into drinking? Me neither! Well, one of my favorite things to do at home is have my morning coffee, so why not create a dedicated coffee lounge in your MCM home?
It could be a whole room or just a corner of your living room! Here are some MCM home coffee bar ideas:
Incorporating Modern Touches
Mixing mid-century modern pieces with contemporary designs can create a unique and cohesive look.
- How to Mix Mid-Century Pieces with Contemporary Designs: Combine vintage furniture with modern accessories, like a sleek metal lamp on a wooden desk.
- Maintaining Balance and Coherence: Stick to a consistent color palette and choose pieces that complement each other in terms of style and scale.
Incorporating modern technology into your mid-century modern design can be seamless:
- Hide cables and choose gadgets that match the aesthetic, like a retro-inspired turntable or minimalist speakers.
- Look for items like wireless chargers or smart home devices that blend in with your decor.
DIY Projects and Upcycling
Furniture Restoration
Restoring vintage mid-century modern furniture can be a fun and rewarding project!
Tips for Restoring Vintage Mid-Century Furniture:
Sand and refinish wooden pieces, reupholster chairs with period-appropriate fabrics, and replace any missing hardware.
Use high-quality paints and finishes to bring old furniture back to life. Stick to the original color palette for authenticity.
Creating Mid-Century Inspired Decor
You can make your own decor to fit the mid-century modern style:
Create geometric wall art using wood or metal, or try your hand at making a starburst mirror.
Use fabrics with retro patterns to sew your own cushions or throws, adding a personal touch to your space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mid-Century Modern Interior Design
What is Mid-Century Modern Style?
Mid-century modern style is a design movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, roughly from the 1940s to the 1960s. It features clean lines, functional furniture, and a blend of organic and man-made materials.
Key characteristics include minimal ornamentation, open spaces, and an emphasis on bringing the outdoors in.
How Do I Style a Mid-Century Modern Living Room?
To style a mid-century modern living room, start with a statement sofa or chair with clean lines. Add a geometric rug and a Noguchi Coffee Table.
Use open shelving for display and incorporate lighting with a retro feel, such as a Sputnik chandelier or an Arco floor lamp. Finish with accessories like abstract art and sculptural decor.
What Are the Best Materials for Mid-Century Modern Furniture?
The best materials for mid-century modern furniture include wood (teak, walnut), metal, and plastic. These materials were innovative at the time and are still used today to create furniture that is both functional and stylish.
Look for pieces that combine these materials to achieve an authentic mid-century modern look.
Can I Create a Mid-Century Modern Look on a Budget?
Yes, you can create a mid-century modern look on a budget by shopping at thrift stores, yard sales, and online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
DIY projects, such as refinishing vintage furniture or making your own decor, can also help you achieve the look without spending a lot of money.
How Do I Find Authentic Mid-Century Modern Pieces?
To find authentic mid-century modern pieces, visit thrift stores, yard sales, and vintage shops. Look for furniture that has clean lines, unique shapes, and high-quality materials.
You can also find authentic pieces online through specialty retailers and auction sites. Always check for signs of quality craftsmanship and authenticity.
What Are Some Key Mid-Century Modern Decor Elements?
Key decor elements in mid-century modern design include:
– Iconic Furniture Pieces: Eames Lounge Chair, Noguchi Coffee Table, Saarinen Tulip Table.
– Lighting Fixtures: Sputnik chandeliers, Arco floor lamps, pendant lights.
– Decorative Accessories: Sculptural art pieces, retro clocks, mirrors, and textiles with geometric patterns.
How Do I Mix Mid-Century Modern with Other Styles?
Mixing mid-century modern with other styles is all about balance. Combine vintage mid-century pieces with contemporary decor for a unique look. Stick to a consistent color palette and choose pieces that complement each other in terms of style and scale.
Modern technology can also be integrated seamlessly with thoughtful placement and selection of stylish accessories.
How Do I Mix Mid-Century Modern with Other Styles?
Mixing mid-century modern with other styles is all about balance. Combine vintage mid-century pieces with contemporary decor for a unique look.
Stick to a consistent color palette and choose pieces that complement each other in terms of style and scale. Modern technology can also be integrated seamlessly with thoughtful placement and a selection of stylish accessories.
Where Can I Buy Mid-Century Modern Furniture?
You can find mid-century modern furniture at a variety of places, including:
Thrift Stores and Yard Sales: Great for finding authentic vintage pieces.
Online Stores: West Elm, Article, Joybird, CB2, and AllModern offer new furniture with a retro vibe.
Specialty Vintage Shops: Look for stores that specialize in mid-century modern furniture for unique finds.
What Colors Are Used in Mid-Century Modern Design?
Mid-century modern design typically uses a color palette that includes earthy tones like olive green, mustard yellow, and burnt orange. These are often paired with contrasting accents in black, white, and bold primary colors. This combination creates a balanced and visually appealing look.
How Do I Incorporate Mid-Century Modern Design into My Home?
To incorporate mid-century modern design into your home, start by selecting furniture with clean lines and simple forms. Use a color palette that includes earthy tones and bold accents.
Add geometric patterns and organic materials like wood and stone. Incorporate iconic mid-century pieces, such as the Eames Lounge Chair, Noguchi Coffee Table, and Saarinen Tulip Table.
Mid-Century Modern Interior Design Ideas – Conclusion
Transforming your home into a mid-century modern masterpiece is not only stylish but also achievable on any budget.
By understanding the key characteristics of the style, choosing the right furniture, and incorporating the right colors, patterns, and accessories, you can create a space that is both functional and beautiful.
Don’t forget to mix in some modern touches and personal DIY projects to make the space truly your own.
