Style Advice: Creating A Mid-Century Modern Look

The 1950s and 1960s saw the arrival of some of the most iconic pieces of furniture in modern design. Characterised by their clean, refined lines, softened shapes and minimalist silhouettes, these mid-century creations have proven incredibly popular, and even today remain a staple in interior design due to their versatility and timeless feel. In today’s blog, we will share some advice on how to achieve a mid-century modern look in your home.

Choosing the right colour scheme while following any interior design concept is very important, but especially so when trying to achieve a mid-century modern aesthetic. This style relies on deep neutral tones such as dull greys, soft browns and dusty creams along with dark pastel shades of blue and pink. This style of interior also tends to introduce saturated accent colours, like deep reds, natural greens and bold blues, in small amounts making for a stunning contrast against the more subdued tones.

For example, the living room pictured above features a range of grey and brown shades in its furniture and interior decoration; these colours are juxtaposed by warmer copper accents such as the Tonin Casa Cora Coffee Tables. Along with the matching copper vases and other home accessories, the tables stand out against the neutral shades in the room. This combination of colour creates a sophisticated yet warm atmosphere. However, it is key to ensure that you don’t overfill your room with too many colours. As a general rule, sticking to just three or four shades will benefit any room, creating a calmer environment in which your accent pieces especially stand out.

As mentioned above, mid-century furniture can be recognised by their use of clean, straight lines with curved edges and minimalist features. Not only do these qualities make for products that ooze style and sophistication, but they also help create items of furniture that are versatile and flexible in terms of the interiors they can be placed in. The Mambo Unlimited Ideas Croix Chair is an excellent example of this with its angular lines softened at its corners. Exuding a traditional elegance and a stunning pale blue fabric, this chair will act as an ideal addition for homes aiming for a mid-century feel, while, like the other 50s and 60s inspired products shown above and below, it will also suit a variety of other interior styles.

This particular style of furniture also tends to be fairly plain in design and free from ornamentation and over-embellishment. To create this look in your home it is important to avoid patterns in furniture, instead opting for clean and simplistic designs which make use of singular colours. However, in terms of rugs and other soft furnishings like cushions and throws, abstract and asymmetrical patterns, if carefully selected, can work incredibly well. For example, the Asiatic Fresco Rug features a subtle yet stunning geometric pattern with curved lines overlaying a blue and white dip dyed background. Not only will this product infuse some much needed pattern into a mid-century modern home, but due to its striking colour, it will also act as a fabulous accent piece.  

In terms of material, mid-century modern homes often use wood, metal and glass in their designs. Modern chairs, such as those shown in the image above, tend to boast wooden or metal legs, creating a thoroughly contemporary look with a traditional feel. Using these materials in conjunction with soft fabric makes for an interesting look. Designer tables made of wood such as the Gubi Round Dining Table, have also proven popular in this interior concept. It is important to remember that although wood and metal are utilised in this style of interior, more rustic elements such as unfinished wood or aged metal should be avoided if fully committing to this design model.

Browse through our collection of stunning designer furniture to find pieces perfect for your mid-century modern home!