Mid-century modern is a term that describes the design style from the middle of the twentieth century, and it is famous for its uncluttered, sleek lines with a mix of both organic and geometric forms. It is having a resurgence today, and many interior designers are filling spaces with furniture and accessories characteristic of the 1950’s. Even if you know nothing about its origins, you've certainly seen its influence on interior design over the last few years.
Original mid-century modern pieces can be exorbitantly expensive; however, you can still get the look for less by buying pieces that share some of the same traits as the pieces from that era. Today we’re sharing 20 of our favorite mid-century inspired products for your living room.
Mid-century Apartment Inspiration
Tables
1. Bentwood Magazine Table, $146 – Bentwood was another big trend during the middle of the twentieth century, and here it serves two purposes – a tabletop and a magazine holder.
2. Vejmon Coffee Table, $129 – The oval shape and inward slanting legs are classic mid century design, and the lower surface provides double the space for magazines and books.
3. Varberg Accent Table, $65 – This utilitarian side table is the perfect spot for a beer, and it won’t take up much floor space if you lack square footage.
4. Tulip Coffee Table, $402 – If you prefer a lighter look in your living room, give this marble coffee table a try. It is designed to look like Saarinen’s much more expensive tulip table.
Lighting
1. Rotating Sconce, $165 – It’s probably becoming obvious that 90 degree angles are not very common in mid-century design, and lighting is no exception. This angular swing arm sconce from Memoky is both functional and stylish.
2. Oak Wood Tripod Lamp, $76 – This tripod lamp’s tapered legs and mixed materials give it that classic 50’s look.
3. Coulee Desk Lamp, $40 – Brass and white give this functional desk lamp from Target an über cool look, and the price can’t be beat.
4. Lindsay Pendant Lamp, $147 – If you’re in need of a ceiling light, rounded shapes are the way to go. This white fixture is reminiscent of George Nelson’s famous bubble lamp.
Seating
1. Clinton Sofa in Granite, $1588 – Tapered legs and tufted accents give this sofa from Apt2b a thoroughly mid-century feel.
2. Aniline Leather Lounge Chair and Ottoman, $850 – The iconic Eames Lounge chair is one of the most recognizable pieces of mid-century modern design… grab this imitation lounger for a fraction of the price from Houzz.
3. Molded Chair (Set of Two), $100 – These minimal chairs are classic mid-century, with a sleek shape and angular metal legs. And their neutral color makes them super versatile.
4. Leyton Sofa, $326 – Mid-century furniture is famous for having wooden accents on seating… mimic the look with this wood and upholstered sofa from Wayfair.
Storage
1. Ashlyn Bookshelf, $299 – Store your books in style with this beautiful modular shelving unit from World Market. It can also double as a media console.
2. Ripton Mid-Century Modern Console Table, $146 – This console table has two sizable drawers to hide away clutter, and the tapered legs that are so characteristic of the era.
3. Seno Media Console, $699 – This wooden media console has both open and closed storage perfect for cable boxes and other tech equipment, and the angled legs give it that quintessential mid-century look.
4 Draper Mid-Century 2-Door Accent Cabinet, $470 – This versatile cabinet can be used to hide away clutter and it also provides a great surface for a lamp or a decorative accessory. Again, Taped legs mimic the look that became so popular in the 1950’s.
Accessories
1. Dillwyn Mid-Century Wall Clock, $60 – Go old school with this cool clock with a brass and gray finish. Note that the Roman numerals are integrated right into the design.
2. Mid-Century Turned Leg Tabletop Planters, $29-$49 – With the telltale combination of white and wood, these planters will add a touch of detail to your space. Just grab some greenery from Home Depot and you’ll be ready to go.
3. Color Block Pillow Cover, $21 – For a small pop of color, add this throw pillow to your sofa. The 50’s style mustard yellow and turquoise color scheme will look great with the wood in the room.
4. Uni Spike Sculptures, $30-$50 – These little objets d’art look a bit like the famous Sputnik lights popular throughout the middle of the century, so they will add the perfect finishing touch to your space.
