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Life, inspired: Get the look: Mid Century Modern
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Get the look: Mid-Century Modern

Effortlessly cool, mid-century modern design blends natural materials with bold, geometric shapes. Form follows function, creating a cosy yet put-together atmosphere that never goes out of style.

The world is just about obsessed with mid-century design. Flip through any interior design magazine, head to any homewares store, and scroll through any designer’s Instagram page – there’s no escaping the timeless appeal of mid-century modern.

Inspired by the pared-back, functional designs of the middle of the 20th century (around 1933 to 1965), today’s mid-century furniture and décor exude a unique blend of playfulness and sophistication. Clean lines harmonise with natural texture. Rich colour clashes with light, bright neutrals. Minimalist silhouettes complement architectural geometry. It’s full of character and personality, yet somehow understated and oh-so-versatile.

If you’re looking to incorporate mid-century modern into your home, follow these must-know tips. Let’s dive into the intoxicating world of one of the most iconic design aesthetics.

 

Keep it clean

The golden rule of mid-century modern: keep your lines crisp and clean. It’s a no-frills philosophy that gives mid-century its universal appeal and prevents it from looking outdated and old-fashioned.

Sleek, minimal silhouettes work in every part of the home. Because they are unobtrusive, they create the illusion of space and light. They open up a room and foster a sense of airiness. Mirror this by keeping furnishings to a minimum – allow each piece to stand on its own, to breathe. Less is more, so avoid excessive knick-knacks, cushions, and throw rugs.

Coco Extension Dining Table from Domayne

 

Au naturel

Mid-century modern may be all about clean lines and low profiles, but it’s far from stark. In fact, mid-century design can be incredibly cosy, welcoming, and full of warmth. How? By embracing natural materials.

Warm-toned woods and textured fabrics bring life into a mid-century-inspired interior. Add a few muted colours, and you’re good as gold. From coffee to wall hangings, bed frames to bookshelves, mid-century design is best kept au naturel.

Rayne Coffee Table Set from Pillow Talk

Ready for rattan

Embrace the natural world in every aspect of your home’s décor. These rattan planters from Pillow Talk add interest to a space while drawing on the geometric themes found in many mid-century homes. Complete the look by stacking two or three and add indoor plants of varying heights. 

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Organic Influences

Organic materials such as stone, marble and wood, combined with classic silhouettes are staples of mid-century design. This Snow extension dining from Domayne extends to a oval shape for a more inclusive setting.

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Ready for rattan

Embrace the natural world in every aspect of your home’s décor. These rattan planters from Pillow Talk add interest to a space while drawing on the geometric themes found in many mid-century homes. Complete the look by stacking two or three and add indoor plants of varying heights. 

STORE PROFILE

Organic Influences

Organic materials such as stone, marble and wood, combined with classic silhouettes are staples of mid-century design. This Snow extension dining from Domayne extends to a oval shape for a more inclusive setting.

STORE PROFILE

 

Let there be light

Illuminate your space with a feature light that also serves as an abstract work of art. This light becomes a focal point for the room and serves as a practical source of light with its multi level light design. 

Orion Light Pendant from Beacon

 

Own the classics

During the mid-century era, many of the iconic designs we know and love today came to be. Don’t be afraid to embrace the old classics in your home – they are classic for a reason and will look just as good in your 21st century home as they did in the 50s.

Furnishings like this incredibly versatile Replica Wishbone Chair instantly elevate an interior space and act as an inspiring conversation piece. Pair with a contemporary dining table and neutral rug, and you’re on to a winning combination.

Replica Wishbone Chair from Pillow Talk


Curated collector

Create your own mid-century space with carefully curated furnishings. Steer clear of space fillers. Instead, look for functional items that double as art. This stunning lamp delivers in two ways: provides mood lighting and stands on its own as a sculptural, mid-century-inspired piece.

Silk Lamp from Nick Scali

 

Hideaway

Mid-century furniture simply doesn’t have the same impact if it’s covered in clutter. Keep surfaces clean by investing in stylish storage solutions. This bedside table conceals all, so you have everything you need within easy reach without sacrificing your overall bedroom aesthetic.

Barber Ash Bedside Table from Adairs

 

 

Love Linen

Linen is soft, natural, and breathable, and adds an eye-catching element of texture to the couch or bed. Select linen accessories in deep, muted tones, such as the stunning hue of this forest green cushion. Or, try a bold mustard, warm rust, or jewel blue. Alternatively, stick to white and create an ultra-crisp, minimal space. The choice is yours.

Malmo Deep Forest Linen Cushion from Adairs

 

Life, inspired.

Need more inspiration?

Get the look: Scandi Style

Clean lines and a modern, minimalist vibe meet functionality in Scandinavian design — this is a timeless look that isn’t going anywhere, anytime soon.

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Intriguing artwork

Artwork can be a powerful addition to any room. It has the ability to inspire creativity or invoke a sense of calm. To keep with the Scandi theme, opt for bold but minimalist black and white prints like this Allure line drawing from Provincial Home Living.

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A bookworm’s delight

Everyone needs a cosy corner to snuggle into. We love this sleek but oh-so comfy Mila Occasional Chair in dark grey from Catalano Interiors. Add a faux fur cushion, knitted throw, and some ambient lighting to transform this minimalist armchair into a dreamy little reading space.

STORE PROFILE

Life, inspired.

Need more inspiration?

Get the look: Scandi Style

Clean lines and a modern, minimalist vibe meet functionality in Scandinavian design — this is a timeless look that isn’t going anywhere, anytime soon.

READ MORE

Intriguing artwork

Artwork can be a powerful addition to any room. It has the ability to inspire creativity or invoke a sense of calm. To keep with the Scandi theme, opt for bold but minimalist black and white prints like this Allure line drawing from Provincial Home Living.

STORE PROFILE

A bookworm’s delight

Everyone needs a cosy corner to snuggle into. We love this sleek but oh-so comfy Mila Occasional Chair in dark grey from Catalano Interiors. Add a faux fur cushion, knitted throw, and some ambient lighting to transform this minimalist armchair into a dreamy little reading space.

STORE PROFILE