The mid-century modern style contains clean lines, minimalist shapes, and geometric patterns, which pays homage to the modernist aesthetic of the 1950s and 1960s. The mid-century modern look is a timeless and stylish option that provides a sense of whimsy, sophistication, and practicality.
If you are looking to bring a mid-century modern touch to your home, there are several influences that you need to be aware of. This guide will provide a brief overview of these influential design styles and how to incorporate them into your space.
Scandinavian Design
Architects and designers popularized Scandinavian design in the mid-20th century for its emphasis on simplicity and practicality. Furniture with this style has low, simple profiles and pale woods, with more recent examples adopting bright colors and sleek metal accents. To incorporate this style into your living space, opt for light, open-concept furnishes and choose pieces with a mix of natural materials, such as wood, stone, and metal.
Minimalism
Minimalism was introduced in the 1950s and has been a major influence on modern design. This style is defined by its lack of clutter and focuses on removing unessential elements to create a fresher, more open space. Select pieces with clean lines to adhere to this style and avoid ornate ornamentation. Consider removing excess furniture and accessories and opt for streamlined furniture that takes up little visual space.
Molded Plywood
Molded plywood was a significant development in the mid-20th century for its ability to be used in large-scale furniture production. Its signature curved form is highly sought after for its aesthetic appeal and structural efficiency. To add elements of this style to your home, include molded plywood chairs and accent pieces such as shelving and cabinets. These pieces look beautiful when paired with warm woods and minimalistic elements to create a modern yet cozy atmosphere.
Organic Shapes
In contrast to the minimalist approach, the art of organic shapes has become increasingly popular in mid-century modern design. Organic shapes focus on the beauty of natural elements and obey the principles of form in nature. These shapes embrace the idea of post-war optimism and can add character to any room. Incorporate organic shapes by choosing pieces with soft curves and organic textures, such as textured fabrics or sculptural furniture.
Geometric Patterns
Another critical influence of mid-century modern design is geometric patterns. These bold, symmetrical patterns bring a sense of movement and personality to a space. To add this element to your home, look for pieces with diamond or hexagonal motifs. Or, opt for wallpaper with graphic prints. Alternatively, rugs and art prints with geometric patterns also work well in this style.
If you are looking to bring a mid-century modern touch to your home, consider incorporating Scandinavian design, minimalism, molded plywood, organic shapes, and geometric patterns.
With the right pieces and accents, you can create a timeless and stylish mid-century modern look for your space.
