Mid-century modern is modern design’s cool little brother.
Modern design is interesting because it encompasses so many different styles – including contemporary, minimalist, Scandinavian, and mid-century modern. It reached its height in the early 1900s, right after the Victorian Age, and differed wildly from the heavy lines and theatrical elements people were used to. Instead, people began decorating in a more practical, minimalistic way. Although modern design includes elements of mid-century modern design, the two aesthetics are distinct. Check out our tips on mid-century modern vs. modern design.
Modern design is many things at once, and it is thought to be broken out into a few core styles. Typically a modern designer will use ideas from all looks, so there is definitely some overlap between them.
- Scandinavian: features playfully geometric designs, tailored upholstery, and blonde and painted woods.
- Minimalistic: comprised of clean-lined and boxy furniture with smooth leather and high-gloss finishes.
- Farmhouse: inspired by nature with faux fur, linens, cowhide, and blackened metal.
- Glam: values bold, oversize art, polished marble and metals, and statement-making accessories and textures.
- Bohemian: features relaxed upholstery, raw wood and woven rattan, and multiple layered patterns.
- Industrial: utilizes wire-based chairs, Edison bulbs, distressed woods, and raw steel or iron.
- Mid-Century Modern: Keep reading to learn more.
Pro Tip:
Learn more about modern design by checking out our guide, What Is Modern Design?
Mid-century modern is one of the most organically modern styles. Mid-century modern has a retro feel and utilizes bright and bold pops of saturated colors. In the 1950s, pop art (think Andy Warhol) and the Space Age (think The Jetsons) were both iconic, and their influences are heavily evident in mid-century modern design.
Mid-century modern is considered modern design because it still values function over form, but it adds its own unique twist. Mid-century modern uses dynamic decorative accents, unlike more traditional modern design, which favors keeping decorative items to a minimum.
This particular aesthetic originated in Palm Springs in the ‘50s. At the time, this was the place to vacation for celebrities. Houses were flat with low roofs and open floor plans. Living and dining rooms were designed for entertaining many people at once. You’ll notice a lot of big dining tables and bar carts in mid-century design.
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Mid-century modern furniture is elongated with bold shapes. Backs of chairs are often flared. Furniture is designed to look minimal, geometric, and retro. Mid-century modern chairs and bed frames are leggy and tapered. Lighting is cone-shaped. Woods are warm-toned. Molded plastic and other modern materials like fiberglass, steel, and plastic are go-to materials.
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One of the reasons mid-century modern decor has stuck around for so long is because many young people and families continue to move to urban areas. Decorating a smaller living space is easy when using the influences of mid-century modern design, and the simple and approachable decor is designed to be used by everyone. Throwing down a couple floor pillows, adding plants, and opening spaces up with low furniture and arched lighting are a few easy ways to make your home more mid-century modern.
Mid-century modern spaces look and feel more lived-in than traditional modern homes. Mid-century modern enthusiasts love abstract, atomic, and geometric patterns. Keeping floor space open, making seating areas comfy, and showing off your personality without adding clutter are a couple of things to keep in mind when decorating a mid-century modern home.
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Bohemian style is included in the mid-century modern brand because both share many of the same influences. Many bohemian furniture pieces are inspired by mid-century modern design but use raw or mixed wood instead of plastic or other materials.
Bohemian style values bold pops of color, eye-catching patterns, and layered textures. It’s more of a mix-and-match approach to decorating. It is characterized by its global accents, wall hangings, colorful textiles, and uses of natural elements like woven rattan and faux fur.
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Pro Tip:
For a deep dive into mid-century modern design, check out Everything You Need to Know About Mid-Century Modern Design.
Mid-century modern has been around for a while, but it continues to inspire fresh and new decorating ideas. Take one last peek at some of our favorite mid-century modern ideas.
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