Design Lesson
7 pieces that'll give any room a Mid-Century Modern feel
Photography: Robin Stubbert | Story: Loud hits of colour take mid-century modern design to lively new heights
Design Lesson
7 pieces that'll give any room a Mid-Century Modern feel
From a clean-lined console to a peg-legged chair, these items will help you achieve that 70s vibe.
Woods in warm tones, peg legs, sleek curves and statement lights — a classic mid-century modern piece is difficult to miss. Though this style dates back to the early 50s, it’s been popular ever since and it makes sense why: It’s appealing to those who love a minimalist style with a serious punch. Here are seven simple pieces that will offer a dose of Mid-Century Modern style to any room — but we're excluding the infamous Eames chair because you're already well-familiar with that one.
1. Look for furniture in warm wood tones.
Minimalist bedside table, $208, simons.com.
A sideboard is the perfect item to invest in if you have a small space and are looking for functional storage—and a great place to set up a bar à la Don Draper. When you’re on the hunt for a Mid-Century Modern piece of furniture, look for something with retro-inspired angled legs and sleek, minimal lines like this gorgeous pick.
2. Pick a sleek sofa.
Altus Modular Sofa, from $850, cozey.ca.
Though Mid-Century Modern design favours minimal lines, it also likes a clean curve for the arms of a sofa, or along the back. Tip: If a sofa doesn’t have removable cushions, that’s a good sign it’s inspired by Mid-Century Modern design. If you don’t want to splurge on a couch, look for accessories with curved accents, like this wall mirror.
3. Buy anything with peg legs.
Amoeba coffee table, $349, article.com.
Coffee table? Media console? Bookcase? If any of these pieces have angled peg legs, snag it.
4. Change up your plant pots.
Mid-Century Modern Plant Stand, $114, etsy.com.
The easiest way to add a Mid-Century Modern touch to your home is with a trendy wood plant pot holder, which Pinterest users can’t get enough of.
5. Invest in functional decor.
Madera extendable dining table, $1899, article.com.
Mid-Century Modern is definitely about style, but it’s also about function, which is great if you live in a small space. When you’re on the hunt for new pieces, look for items that are dual functional, like a coffee table lifts up to reveal hidden storage or a dining table folds down when it’s not in use.
6. Go bold with lighting.
Saucer Criss Cross Bubble Pendant, $395, lumens.com.
The key when shopping for Mid-Century Modern-style lights is to look for simple shapes like ovals or circles that gain their impact from texture or interesting design. Think a simple black pendant with interesting curves or a white bubble light — a popular piece in Mid-Century Modern design.
7. Don’t go overboard with colour.
Mid-Century Modern Geometric 04 Orange Throw Pillow, $30, society6.com.
Mid-Century Modern style lets the warm woods and minimal lines do the talking, so wall colours tend to stay neutral. If you do want to add a hit of colour, stick to just one or two rainbow hues and layer it in carefully with throw pillows, blankets or other small accessories.
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