I’m sure you've heard of “mid-century modern,” but do
you know how to properly distinguish this style from others? This movement is having a big moment. Thanks to its sleek lines and eco-friendly aesthetic, designers and decorators today are once again embracing the aesthetic.
The mid-century modern aesthetic formed between the 1930s and the mid-1960s. The style grew in the United States through inspiration from styles prior, such as the International style in Germany. With its embodiment of elements of functionality, minimalism, elegance, and traditional and non-traditional styles, it was a hit across the nation. Cara Greenburg, author of Midcentury Modern: Furniture of the 1950s, is credited with giving a name to the trend in the late 1980s, when there was a resurgence of interest in the style.
Mid-century modernism gave birth to many designs that you're probably familiar with but might not know by name. The most famous example is the Eameses of the "Eames Chair" fame. This was a lounger / ottoman chair set that "revolutionized" the chair industry. The chair has replicators to this day.
The version of mid-century modernism (modern mid-century modernism?) we often see today is a little different from its true mid-century roots. Today's movement is environmentally-friendly, promoting the use of recycled materials such as metal, glass, vinyl, and plywood.
And a key part in the furniture design that distinguishes it from other styles are “pin legs,” the thin, straight legs seen in some of the images below.
The mid-century
modern style offers a clean, fun and exciting aspect to any design!
