The Mid-Century modern design era was around the mid-1940s to 1960s. This style was hugely influenced by Scandinavian architecture and design. Providing function and comfort was as important as form and design in the Mid-Century.
Furniture – Furniture was made with simple lines and organic curves and shapes. Furniture had a very streamlined look, but with a twist of the unexpected. Living room furniture and beds were made to sit lower to the ground for functionality. The streamlined modern furniture always looked neat and organized in a room with textural rugs and carpeting. Kitchen and desk chairs were curvy and usually without armrests.
Accessories – Unlike Victorian design, where there is so much focus on having lots of decor and accessories, Mid-Century modernism was just the direct opposite. Designers focused on the silhouettes and shapes of furniture and accessories to best highlight a room. Glass flowing sculptures and organically patterned wallpaper were used as decoration rather than ornate, intricate objects and detailing.
Welcoming Nature – Because Mid-Century design was less formal than the previous design eras, it was more affordable for the average American family. This modern style was created to highlight homes and structures with ample windows and open floor plans with the goal of opening up the interior space and allowing the outdoors to flow indoors. Simple pleated curtains in solid colors were always framing a glass door or window that would displayed nature on the other side.
Flooring – Most people remember the infamous checkerboard vinyl flooring from the mid-1950s. Vinyl flooring was extremely popular and came in a variety of patterns and colors. Linoleum and cork tiling were other types of flooring used in the Mid-Century. Ceramic tiling, usually in pink, black and white, was commonly used in bathrooms and on kitchen counter tops.
Fabrics – With the introduction of the atomic era, bright abstract designs, which represented a futuristic feel, were also popular. Fabric materials were cotton, twill, wool, gabardine, nylon and denim. Colors that were in trend were peacock blues, pinks and floral patterns. The 50s was also known for interesting pop art using Danish leaf prints, abacus patterns, atomic daisies and symbols. Remember, clean lines, organic repetitive patterned fabric, and bold colors paired with neutrals are a great start to creating your Mid-Century modern room.