Having derived its name from the era it was trending, mid-century modern interior design is the design style that was a lot prevalent from around early 1940s to late 1960s. With its trademarked features that included the introduction of artificial materials along with the natural ones, a combination of organic as well as graphic forms, the principles of minimalism with clean sleek edges and a desire to merge the indoor and outdoor to flow into each other, mid-century modern interior design is timeless and manages to stand out even today.
Concept
Composing of clean lines, this interior design is characterised by functionality with minimalism and focuses on decluttering spaces. Although these spaces have statement furniture pieces, the overall look and feel of a mid-century modern living room is cozy. This design style plays with the balance of muted tones along with vibrant colors with a fresh introduction of comparatively larger shapes and patterns along with stronger textures as compared to other interior design styles.
Materials
Mid-century interior design saw the use of artificial materials along with natural ones. Popular among the natural materials are glass, wood and metal, while marble is also quite often used for the design of some cozy mid-century modern living rooms. A variety of artificial materials were introduced in this design style, plastic becoming the most popular. Other artificial materials include vinyl, acrylic and fibreglass, most of which are used extensively even today.
Furniture
Furniture played a key role in defining this interior design style. It is a very unique style that developed that is identified and seen adorning many spaces even today. One or two furniture items become statement pieces and the centre of attraction of the space. These items often have no to very little ornamentation – they are mostly with absolute minimal elaboration and focus on functional elegance with timeless style.
Furthermore, a signature mark of these furniture pieces is that these simple items were standing on hairpin legs made of wood or metal giving it a very clean, sleek look. Sofas often have eccentric shapes, kidney bean being quite popular. Seatings are low streamlined, and cocoon lounges make a frequent appearance. Upholstery usually is matte finish, and the overall vintage look of the furniture adds character to the space.
Color Palette
Since the mid-century modern interior design relies heavily on the amalgamation of the indoor and outdoor to create a seamless flow, the color palette involved with this design style is also a lot nature inspired. From earthy green to soft ochres to dark browns, this palette brings the outdoors within the indoor space. It also takes inspiration from the fall colors to introduce oranges and yellows in the palette. The shades of sea blue-green to aquamarine to teal are also included. Deep clay red pops in to bring in a burst of brightness in the earthy palette.
Indoor-Outdoor Fusion
Big windows and natural light are some basic principles for the fusion of indoor-outdoor fusion in this modern interior design style. To ensure this smooth fusion, complementing color schemes are usually used. A lush outdoor will call for early brown shades and textures inside the space, while an earthy, rocky exterior will call for a sea green-blue palette selection for the interiors. The color pop may be introduced with the warmed shades of oranges and reds in both situations.
Lighting
Statement lighting is not a trait mid-century interior design style. Instead subtle lights that merge within the space are preferred for such a design. Hanging lights and floor lamps, that do not dominate the space nor are seemingly highlighting elements are popular choices. Pick a floor lamp that is relatable to human proportions for an ideal height.
