Mid-Century Modern

What is midcentury design?

Midcentury modern” itself is a difficult term to define. It broadly describes architecture, furniture, and graphic design from the middle of the 20th century (roughly 1933 to 1965, though some would argue the period is specifically limited to 1947 to 1957)

The movement spanned from about 1933 to 1965 and included architecture as well as industrial, interior, and graphic design. Designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, Harry Bertoia, Arne Jacobsen, and George Nelson created iconic furniture and lighting that are still highly coveted. The architectural style, seen in the work of talents such as Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler, is known for its use of expanses of glass, flat planes, and a strong connection to nature.

What are the inspirations behind midcentury design?

The style grew out of early-20th-century Modernism, including the International and Bauhaus movements. Midcentury really took hold after World War II, thanks to new technologies and materials, and a newfound prosperity. The migration to urban areas, and thus smaller living spaces, also influenced the designs of the era.

- Basic characteristics of mid-century modern interior design:

Organic and geometric shapes. Mid–century modern style focuses on clean lines with a mix of both organic and geometric shapes. …
Function over form. …
Minimal ornamentation. …
Contradicting materials and textures. …
Neutral (and bold!) …
Bringing nature indoors.