Get the Mid-Century Modern Look

If you follow design trends, you can’t help but have heard of mid-century modern – the currently hot look for interiors. An architectural, interior, product and graphic design movement, it encompasses developments in modern design, architecture and urban development from roughly 1933 to 1965. It can be described as uncomplicated, with natural lines, contemporary patterns, open spaces, a functional bridge between comfort and style, all with a few quirky accents. The TV show Mad Men brought it back into the public’s eye.

Big names influential in mid-century modern architecture include Oscar Niemeyer and Alvar Aalto. Charles and Ray Eames and Arne Jacobsen were prominent designers of the period.

How do you make it yours? Obviously redoing your apartment in a whole new style may be out of the budget, however selecting a few choice pieces and arranging your rooms for maximum flow will get you the look. Original furniture items from this period cost a pretty penny, but quality replicas are available. Choosing a marshmallow sofa or egg chair will give your room a definite mid-century mood. For the rest of your furniture, make sure it is stripped down to its most basic form – that is what sets mid-century pieces apart from other design eras. Make furnishings like this the signature items in your room.

Now’s the time for some mid-century bling. Geometric patterns were all the rage, so now is not the time for some quiet little flowers. Do some research into mid-century modern motifs and identify a few you like. Get some fabric for new curtains, cover some pillows or create a duvet cover. Graphic design also saw a significant movement in this period and if that’s a personal interest of yours, it’s worthwhile to search out some popular designs from the time. Since natural wood furnishings were popular, homeowners chose bold plums, teals and golds to liven up their spaces. If you want to go ‘60s, focus on the avocado, tangerine and mustard hues.

Another simple way to infuse the look into an apartment is by switching out the lighting. Mid-century modern went wacky for signature lighting fixtures and hanging an iconic one in your living room or above a kitchen or dining room table will be the highlight of the space. If you prefer table lamps, look for ones with curvy bases and tall slim shades.

Art fans, another easy way to put some pop in the room is via a piece from one of the hot artists of the time. Think David Hockney, Jackson Pollock, Alexander Calder, Roy Lichtenstein and of course Andy Warhol. These artists used color like it was going out of style and their whimsical creations will give any room in your apartment a fabulous fresh look. Don’t worry about owning an original – museum shops and online sites are filled with excellent reproductions.

And never neglect the accessories! A ‘60s inspired bowl, candle holders or bar cart will be the individual touches that make the room yours. This retro-inspired look can be implemented into an existing décor and is suited to simply highlighting your current design.