Nostalgic But Fresh - Midcentury Modern

When

Midcentury modern style reappeared in our homes after more than a four decades. It`s nostalgic but fresh style and it`s wildly popular in interior design this days.

Just as the name implies, this style appeared in the middle of the 20th century, and it was occupying our homes from the mid-1940`s to 1970`s. It`s uncomplicated, fresh aesthetic derived from a desire to take design into the modern era with a bold new lines.

Midcentury modern's emphasis on pared-down forms, contemporary patterns and natural materials creating a functional and chic style.

Centers of the Mid Century Modern aesthetic was in the United States, Britain, Japan, and Scandinavia. In the U.S., Herman Miller produced iconic chairs for Charles and Ray Eames, as well as the famous Marshmallow sofas for George Nelson. Knoll made interesting wire chairs for Harry Bertoia and cool, Tulip chairs for Eero Saarinen. But they were not the only one, there were so many more great designers, like Ernest Race, Isamu Noguchi, George Nakashima, Børge Mogensen, Arne Jacobsen etc.

Why:

But, the real question about Midcentury modern is why is so popular this days? Well, we all know since the dawn of human civilization we have looked to the past for inspiration. Nostalgia also plays a big role in how we choose things to surround ourselves with. And we must admit, a lot of our preference for a certain style comes from our subconscious. These hidden memories of the happy childhood keep the past alive in the present, evoke warm feelings and provide us a sense of security in the modern era when life is filled with so much hard work, modern technology and a little free time for our family and friends. After all, it`s only natural we all want more of that good feelings in our present.

So, if you are middle-aged (like me) and you miss just a little bit your childhood home, maybe you`ll like it and want to see it again in your home.

But, even for those who can't recall it from the past, the mid century modern design has great value, because minimalist sensibility and style is in focus again. Younger generation appreciate the simplicity and beauty of this design because it`s fresh, uncomplicated and it looks great with any other style.
Where:
There are countless stores and websites devoted to Midcentury modern tastes. One of them is Chairish, place where design lovers buy and sell. So, If you are looking for some great pieces of furniture, lighting, decor, accessories and other things for you or your home, you can find them here. Few days ago, sweet Holly, Community Manager at Chairish, email me. She told me how people in Chairish likes my blog, admire my design taste and style and thinks I`m a perfect fit to take on their exclusive Mix n Match Style Challenge? She asked me am I up for the challenge? Of course I`m up for the challenge!! So, I put together some idea boards using some of pieces form Chairish and mix and match it with other styles. Hope you like it!
Tips:
For the end of story, few small tips. Easy way to add Midcentury modern style to your home without breaking the bank is to combine it with style you already have in your home. It will make it fresh, crisp and modern, and you`ll feel as you have a brand new home. As always, selecting right colors is always the first step to planning your interior, since it leads to your furniture and decor selection. Speaking of color palette, Midcentury modern tend to combine darker neutral tones with saturated accent colors. Also, it`s very important to find right Midcentury patterns when picking the rug and fabrics for your curtains, cushions and upholstery, so chose asymmetrical, abstract patterns. When you are picking lamps and table lamps, chose either very straight, geometric lines or round, curved contour, mostly made of finished metal. And finally, don’t be afraid to break the rules and be creative. Mix and match and create something that pleases your eye. After all, you are going to live in that space.

Here is a list of items I used in my boards (all from Chairish):

Mid Century Nelson Style Walnut Table Clock
Mid Century George Kuvacs Ceterpillar Lamp
Mid Century Gold Bamboo and Glass Coffee table
Mid Century Modern Silver Banded Table Lamp
Mid Century Modern Sofa by Kroehler
Mid Century Modern Splash Oil Painting
Mid Century Venini Chandelier
Mid Century Modern Walnut Credenza Dresser
Modern Thonet Bentwood Chair
Restored Hollywood Wakefield Aristocrat Sofa
Retro Style Sunburst Clock
Spectrum Design BR.02.7 Sofa
Painted Bergere Louis XVI Style
Autentic Mid-Century Dunbar Desk
Wathered Blue Wooden Pentry

Vesna