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6 Ways to Achieve That Mid-Century Modern Style

February 9, 2023 · 8 min read
mid-century modern style

Would you like to decorate your home in a mid-century modern style?

I absolutely adore the mid-century modern style. It looks so chic, classy, and cozy, but not overwhelming, and it makes me think of pouring a tasty drink into a glass while reading the newspaper on my Eames chair.

This style was very popular a century ago, between 1933 and 1965, and it brought the public plenty of amazing designs from different domains, including architecture, graphic design, interior design, and also industrial design.

There were a lot of designers who span with creativity, leaving the world with gorgeous objects, including Harry Bertoia, George Nelson, and Ray and Charles Eames. For me, the mid-century modern style is iconic and charming, and I love its clean lines, vibrant colors, and geometric shapes and patterns.

If you love this style as much as I do and want to add a few details to your home, you’re in for a treat, because I can teach you how to do it! Without further ado, here are some easy ways to achieve that mid-century modern style you like.

P.S. Get ready to have the most comfortable, stylish, sophisticated, and elegant home ever!

mid-century modern style
Photo by Karen Culp from shutterstock.com

1. Add color

But not any color! If you want to create a polished mid-century look, you need to make your home look refined and mature while still adding a little bit of fun to any elements you have. According to designers, this style is perfect for those who love rich and vibrant pops of color.

You probably know that this fabulous style became very popular after World War II ended, and some people even say that it can be described as a way to make things and people feel happier and more alive again after those sad years of constant conflicts. So say goodbye to gray and black, because it’s time to let them go and allow yellows, reds, and blue shades to enter your house and your life!

Some of the most common choices for colors include different shades of red and pink, earthy tones of beige and brown, greens, such as olive and avocado, yellow mustard, and gold, and let’s not forget about pumpkin orange, which is absolutely wonderful.

But if you’re more of a pastel type of person, you’re lucky, because they’re also a great choice. Think of something natural, pretty, and breezy, like baby blue and dusty pink. These 2 hues look divine together, and they can make you feel very comfy, relaxed, and happy!

Don’t think that you need to paint your entire wall in one of the colors previously mentioned. You can start off with simple things, such as throw pillows and blankets, a small rug, a beautiful canvas or a cushion, or even a soft and cozy couch.

2. Wood

Wood was a staple in people’s houses a century ago and is still one of the most important materials in today’s society too. If you’re looking for a super easy way to add something unique, stylish, and very pretty to your home, don’t say no to warm wood.

This material is excellent for creating amazing pieces such as furniture, floors, and even walls. Cherry, walnut, and mahogany are warm-toned woods that are designers’ favorites when it comes to this style.

These materials are durable, easy to clean, and smooth, and they give off the impression that your home is traditional but very modern at the same time, so they are definitely a worthy investment!

mid-century modern style
Photo by Inaoy from shutterstock.com

3. Abstract art and design

Is there something that screams more mid-century modern style than some gorgeous abstract designs? I guess not, and if you’re into colorful pieces of art, you’re in for a treat, because this way of decorating is definitely your cup of tea.

Don’t think that you only have to invest in expensive paintings to achieve the look that you want. There are a lot of items to choose from, and they’re suitable for all types of budgets. You can go for artwork, rugs, and even wallpaper to achieve that polished and sophisticated mid-century modern look we’re all crazy about.

You can either choose something colorful and vibrant in nice shades of green, yellow, brown, and blue, or you can go for something more minimalistic in a neutral palette like white, gray, and black.

4. Huge windows… or not

Big windows are a staple in a mid-century modern home, and truth be told, they can make everything better! Just imagine that you just woke up and the sun is getting ready for a new day, hugging your home with its precious rays. Your room seems bigger and breezier, and you’re feeling peaceful and happy.

Or at least, this is how I feel when I catch the light entering my home. But if you aren’t blessed with huge windows, there’s no need to get upset and completely let this idea go. I have a simple and quick DIY idea for you, and I’m pretty sure you’re going to love it.

Of course, you can’t break your walls and build them again, with a bigger space for your windows, but you can purchase a few mirrors to achieve the look that you want.

As you already know, these accessories can catch the light, and they give off the impression that your space is more sophisticated and luxurious, so get ready to go to the nearest store and pick up something that will make you appreciate golden hour even more!

5. White walls

Some people say that white walls are boring and look like a hospital room, while others say they are chic and stylish. I don’t know about you, but I think that they’re absolutely wonderful. They look divine, classic, and overall amazing in any context without adding plenty of details to make them pop.

Speaking of that, after World War II was over, people began painting their walls white in order to allow their decor items to shine and be at the center of attention. We’ve previously said that warm wood pieces are one of the mid-century modern style’s staples, which means that they were so happy about their items and art pieces that they wanted them to be the focal points, and white walls were the perfect canvas for that.

So if you have no idea what colors to paint your walls, stick to the classic white and let your abstract art objects do their thing! Another plus about picking this shade is that you won’t have to waste time thinking about what colors go with your decor items, so it’s efficient!

mid-century modern style
Photo by Rawpixel.com from shutterstock.com

6. Wallpaper

I feel like wallpaper is everywhere, and it comes in tons and tons of patterns, colors, and varieties! Whether you want to make your home look more stylish, you want to hide some wall stains, or you want to achieve that mid-century modern look, it seems that wallpaper is your bestie no matter what.

I really mean it, it’s everywhere! So how can you make the most of it, you might ask? If you remember what we’ve already discussed during this article, you know that many years ago, people were crazy about bold colors, abstract art, and geometric patterns.

Those are a few details that scream mid-century modern style, and they’re in at the moment, but the best part is that they’re timeless and they look good year after year.

So if you have the courage to add some wallpaper to your walls, you should definitely go for it. Choose something that is bold and abstract, in strong shades and with geometric patterns; add some throw pillows to the room where you put it, and get ready to revive the mid-century style!

You don’t have to install permanent wallpaper if you don’t want it; you can opt for those that are peel-off. This will also make it easier for you to change it when it doesn’t look good and fresh anymore.

Takeaway

Some people might say that it’s only nostalgia talking here, but I don’t think that’s true. Mid-century modern style is awesome, and it will always be one of people’s favorites. It looks so stylish, classic, and timeless that it’s impossible not to want to live in a place that has such great decor.

In conclusion, if this is the style that makes you happy and relaxed, only choose the tips that work for you. Whether you want to add a pop of color, some new art pieces, new furniture, wallpaper, or new lighting fixtures that seem vintage, it’s going to look wonderful! Take your time, do your research, and leave a comment down below if you liked this article.

Until next time, here’s something else you don’t want to miss: 15 Types of Fabric That Make ANY Home Look High-End!

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