How to Get the Mid-Century Modern Look
Words by Michaela Quinn
January 24, 2017
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3m
The style of the past provides a wealth of inspiration when it comes to decorating your home. From classic art deco influences to vintage sixties prints, retro decor can bring a timeless quality to an interior.
'Mid century modern' has risen in popularity in recent years, to become one of the most sought-after home trends around. Combining the clean lines and sophisticated style of the 1950s and 1960s with a fresh and contemporary twist, the look is perfect for modern homes.
Natural Wood Finishes
Mid century furniture was most often made from solid woods in warm shades such as teak, walnut, oak and rosewood. Before the era of flat-packed furniture, tables, chairs and sideboards were carefully crafted by hand for a high quality build.
Images by Sarah Sherman and Alpha Smoot
To transform your home into a mid century marvel, look for well built pieces in natural wooden finishes.
The Lund 3 Section Sideboard is perfect for a mid century modern home. Finished in oak with a clear lacquer finish that enhances the natural grain, it features a simple but stylish retro-inspired shape.
To add some mid century flair to your home, choose minimalist designs with rounded corners and retro-inspired angles. Ercol furniture is ideal for this look; founded in the 1920's, Ercol became a household favourite throughout the mid century.
We love the Ercol Originals Retro Coffee Table and the Nest of 3 Tables, available in black or natural wood.
Bold Sofas
Create a statement centrepiece in a mid century modern-inspired living room with a bold sofa.
The Juni Sofa oozes mid century style, in bright Riva Marine blue with angled wooden legs and a clean silhouette. Geometric scatter cushions add a contemporary edge.
Another of our top picks is the Myers Sofa, a popular choice for retro style enthusiasts. Blending the past and present, the Myers boasts beautiful curves, a button back and a classic grey fabric finish.
Pops of Colours
Homes of the mid century often featured plain white or neutral walls, which allowed the perfectly crafted furniture to really shine. Saturated colours such as orange, red and blue were popular at this time, but were usually reserved for furniture and accessories.
Images by My Scandinavian Home and Fat Cat Brussels
To get the look, keep your decor simple, but add pops of colour with eye-catching furniture and accessories in primary hues.
Bring colour into your dining room with the iconic Comback Chair by Kartell, a mid century classic. The Kartell Maui Chair is also available in a rainbow of colour options; try mixing two or three colours for a striking appeal.
Statement Lighting
Finally, add the perfect finishing touch with retro lighting. Mid century lighting was all about drama and sculptural shapes that double as art forms - think curved floor lamps, starburst pendants and bubble lights.
Light up a mid century room with the stunning Starburst Ceiling Light.
Alternatively, the Giraffe Floor Lamp features a retro curved design that's perfect for placing in the corner of a room, where it will hang stylishly over a seating area.
Are you a fan of retro-inspired interiors? For more inspiration, discover our Mid Century Modern Pinterest board.