When you think of midcentury modern, what comes to mind? Architecture? Furniture?
Midcentury modern is often used to describe a period in design centered around the middle of the 20th century. Clean, hard lines, brass finishes and solid hardwoods dominated, as did classic furniture pieces that are making a comeback. The beauty of midcentury modern design is the pieces are timeless, and they can be staple that won’t go out of style.
Looking for ways to incorporate midcentury modern decor? Here are some areas of the home and some furniture suggestions to infuse a midcentury modern feel and vibe.
DINING AREAS
Dining rooms are one of the main areas to easily incorporate aspects of midcentury modern decor.
Don’t know where to begin? Here are some basic elements.
— Oval-shaped dining tables. Ovals are a classic shape in midcentury modern furniture, and they won’t go out of style.
— Lacquer finishes. Love it or hate it, lacquer is making a bold comeback, from kitchen cabinets to furniture. Whether you desire a glossy or more matte finish, lacquer is one way to infuse a midcentury modern vibe.
— Classic midcentury modern dining chairs. There are so many different yet classic chair styles that help define the midcentury modern period. Don’t be afraid to mix and match by pairing midcentury modern chairs with furniture from another period. For example, midcentury modern dining chairs look great with both glass tables as well as antiques.
LIVING AREAS
Living areas and other main social areas such as family rooms are key places to incorporate midcentury modern decor in different ways.
— Shag rugs. Think soft and fluffy, solid colored and sleek. Shag rugs come in various thicknesses and shapes and can help anchor and define a space.
— Walnut and solid hardwood furniture. Easily identifiable and often associated with midcentury modern period furniture, walnut and hardwoods in rich, deep tones can add a classic and refined feel to nearly any space.
— Tufted leather side chairs. Tufted furniture, including pieces made out of leather, are often associated with the midcentury modern period. Butterscotch, olive, white and black are leather colors often found on midcentury furniture pieces.
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Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at www.cathyhobbs.com .
