What is mid-century modern design style?
Mid-century modern is a design style, predominantly within architecture & furniture/home decor, that flourished from around the 1930s-1960s. It originated from the students at the bauhaus school of design & architecture in germany who migrated to the US after WW2. This design style cemented in clean lines, organic and streamlined forms gained extreme popularity in the U.S. and is still omnipresent in design today. The lack of embellishment/adornment makes mid-mod pieces approachable and easy to utilize.
Distinguishing Features
The distinguishing features of this style consist of a classic, understated look, and clean lines with minimal fuss.
- Functionality is important, as form follows function
- ​​​​​​​ Uncluttered and sleek lines with both organic and geometric forms
- Minimal ornamentation
- An exploration of different traditional as well as non-traditional materials
- ​​​​​​​ The juxtaposition of different, and sometimes contrasting materials
George Nelson- The Father of mid-mod design
There are an innumerable amount of designers who pioneered mid-mod design in the US. However, there is one that stands out prominently, George Nelson. Many of his creations defined this design era leading to his recognition by most as the father of mid century modern design. He developed some of the most iconic pieces: bubble pendants, atomic clocks, the marshmallow sofa, and he designed the first L-shaped desk. Below are a few of his recognizable works:
Mies van der Rohe- Architect & Interior Designer
Mies van der Rohe is another one of the most important names in mid-century modern furniture design and architecture. Van der Rohe is one of the many founding fathers who breathed life into the modernism design movement.
​​​​​​​A few items we all recognize, mindfully or not, are the Barcelona chair & daybed, and the MR chair & chaise lounge.
Barcelona Chair
Barcelona Daybed
A contemporary Spotlight on Mid Century Modern: Jonathan Adler
One of our favorite designers whom so effortlessly infused GLAM into the modest mid-mod aesthetic is jonathan adler.
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​​​​​​​With his passion for eclecticism and mid century modern style, Jonathan Adler’s captivating interiors are perpetually trendsetting. His unique and lively aesthetic has swept through the interior design world becoming a source of inspiration for many as he pioneers this luxurious twist on an old favorite, mid-mod.
