What is Mid Century Modern Design Style?
Mid-century modern design style is expressed with clean, simple lines, true-to-form materials, and minimal use decorative elements. Also known as MCM, this design movement influenced interior, product, and graphic design, as well as architecture and urban development in post-war United States from the mid 40s to the late 60s.
Clean, sculptural lines showcased on low profile sofas, Barcelona chairs, Bauhaus-styled seating, and lots of chaises are all key components of MCM design. Furniture designers who championed this style include Vladimir Kagan, Herman Miller, Eero Saarinen, Isamu Noguchi and Charles and Ray Eames who are best known for their famous Eames chair. Pieces from these designers (and modern replicas of them) feature organic, curvilinear shapes and geometric patterns and tend to be made from a mix of natural and manmade materials. Materials originally developed for use during the war (resin, plastic, metal composites, laminates, and fiberglass) were all experimented with and combined in various ways with traditional furniture materials.
Architecturally, MCM features angled details, profiles, and flat roofs. Expansive walls of glass, clean lines, and wide-open floor plans were also hallmarks of the style. This movement was the first to use bi-level structures that married indoor spaces to the outside, making it extremely popular on the West Coast.
The use of color in MCM ranges from warm, earthy, nature-inspired tones—such as olive green, burnt umber, pumpkin and mustard yellow—to trendy colors like pink, gray, turquoise, black and yellow. Sometimes touches of traditional colors like burgundy, blue and emerald green are included.
While mid-century design style had become less common by the late 60s, it regained popularity again in the 80s and continues today to attract a new generation of fans who are fond of its elegant, modern lines. The clean design characteristics of MCM transcend time and remain relevant to a specific niche of today’s home design client.
“Vintage” mid-century pieces are hugely popular among true collectors and aficionados are so devoted to the style that identifying “finds” becomes a hobby……what can I find and where is it? Collectors often follow antique dealers who alert them to new pieces. By the mid-90s, collectors who specialize in midcentury designs created a niche market for high-priced originals. However, many reproductions exist and are still manufactured today, providing today’s homeowners with a cost-effective way to enjoy mid-century modern furniture in their homes.
Recent pop-culture, such as TV shows like MadMen, have played a role in reenergizing interest in MCM. The growth of urban living, which necessitates a smaller/lighter design style, may also be part of what keeps the midcentury look alive. Modern takes on MCM may include adding a live-edge table which brings the space totally up to date. Similar dark, organically shaped pieces can serve as a focal point.
At A&R Interiors, our sources are enormous, and we can help you identify available pieces, either original or reproductions that help you complete your own mid-century modern home look.