Bobby Breaks Down Design Styles: What Is Mid-Century Modern?

The term Mid-Century Modern gets used a lot these days. It’s one of the most popular and ubiquitous design terms floating around on social media, on retailers’ websites, and in design magazines. But what is Mid-Century Modern and what does that actually mean? We have the answer – and we’re breaking it all down for you.

From architecture and interiors to furniture, art, and accessories, this style has had a tremendous influence on the design world. With the increasing popularity, the demand for both original pieces and new pieces inspired by designs from the past has exploded. But what is Mid-Century Modern and what pieces reflect this style? We’re giving you the low down on the history of this style (don’t worry it’s brief!) and the pieces and designers that define it.

what is mid-century modern?

MATERIALS

Aluminum, plywood, fiberglass, foam, steel, and plastic were all utilized in new ways, and these innovative approaches to design and construction enabled furniture to be mass produced.

DESIGNERS

George Nelson, Charles and Ray Eames, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi, Hans Wegner and Jean Prouvé are just a few of the designers that defined this style, creating furniture and lighting for manufacturers like Knoll and Herman Miller.

ARCHITECTURE

Architects Mies van der Rohe, Eero Saarinen, Richard Neutra, and John Lautner all produced structures that became iconic for this style of design. The Farnsworth House by van der Rohe is an example of the clean lines and use of glass that define this era. It was all about open spaces, lots of light, and a simple but impactful use of materials. Also of note, the Case Study Houses were inexpensive and efficient model homes built in Southern California by prominent architects of the era. They were intended to be mass-produced and utilized materials like aluminum siding, steel beams, and glass to create a new vision of housing.