Question 1

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 2

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 3

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Question 4

Why is mid century modern popular?

Accepted Answer

Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 5

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mid-century modern is timeless, in the opinion of many experts. Many characteristics of furniture and decorative accents produced in this style remain popular today. Among them are silhouettes marked by organic forms and clean lines, the promotion of functionality and the use of natural materials like teak, rosewood and oak and synthetic materials such as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 6

What does mid century modern mean?

Accepted Answer

Mid century modern refers to the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.

Question 7

What is mid century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.

Question 8

What years are mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables, chairs, desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple.

Postwar architects and designers in the United States were animated by new ideas and new technology during the era of mid-century modernism. Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century furniture designs manufactured by the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller.

Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.

Knoll became a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces soon became desirable for the home. Similarly, Michigan’s Herman Miller is best known for its iconic mid-century modern furniture, and while the company focused on the office, people loved its designs for their homes, too.

Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Question 9

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 10

Why is mid-century modern furniture so popular?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modern furniture is so popular largely because its characteristics align well with the trends and tastes that are dominant today. Many people love its simple look defined by clean lines, and the use of natural materials also adds to its popularity. In addition, designers created mid-century modern furniture to be as functional as it is visually appealing, making pieces executed in the style simple, convenient and comfortable to use. Find a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 11

What year is mid-century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

There is not a single year that is mid-century modern. The style emerged during the 1940s and 1950s and remained dominant through the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Some notable designers who contributed to the development of the mid-century modern style include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Is a tulip table mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the tulip table is considered a mid-century modern design. This table shape has become an iconic statement of the era with a simple sculptural attitude and a practical nature. The first tulip table was created by Eero Saarinen, a noted Finnish designer who was a leader in mid-century modern home decor. Shop a collection of Saarinen furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 13

Is Art Deco mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco is not mid-century modern. Art Deco began just before World War I and was inspired by cubism. Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality.

Question 14

What defines mid-century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.

Question 15

Are Wassily chairs mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Wassily chairs are indeed considered mid-century modern. Although the chair was initially designed by Marcel Breuer in 1925, it was re-released in the 1960s. Shop a collection of mid-century modern goods from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 16

What color wood is mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

There is no single color wood that is mid-century modern. Designers working in the style employed a variety of finishes, though purplish reds, mid-yellows, light browns and medium dark browns were among the most commonly used. Teak wood was an especially popular material, not only due to its warm medium hue but also due to its strength and the beauty of its natural grain. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 17

What are the defining characteristics of mid-century modern design?

Accepted Answer

The defining characteristics of mid-century modern furniture design include simplicity, an emphasis on organic forms, clean lines and a mix of both natural and man-made materials. The mid-century modern style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is used to describe the work of furniture designers who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Both neutral tones and bold Pop art colors can typically be found in mid-century modern interiors, which usually include light-filled spaces. An integration of floor-to-ceiling windows and abundant access to the outdoors renders prominent a connection with nature, which owes in part to the ideas of celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright, an inspiration for mid-century furniture designers. Popular mid-century modern designers include Ray and Charles Eames, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and others. Find vintage mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 18

What color should I paint my mid century modern home?

Accepted Answer

There are many colors available for painting a mid-century modern home and it is a matter of preference. You can choose from a range of colors that are closely associated with mid-century modernism — popular pairings include orange and brown or chartreuse and gray, for example. Find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture, decorative pieces, serveware and lighting on 1stDibs today.

Question 19

What defines mid-century modern home decor?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.

Question 20

What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?

Accepted Answer

Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Mid Century Modern Closet

Vintage 1960s British Mid-Century Modern Wardrobes and Armoires

Mid Century Modern Vintage Teak and Ratan Armoire Wardrobe

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Mid-Century Modern Walnut Credenza

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Mid-Century Modern Sannemann Danish Bachelor Wardrobe Chest

20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Mid century Modern Bubble Globe Sputnik Chandelier, 1960

Mid-20th Century Cubist Figurative Prints

Rita GombinskiFigural Abstract Mid Century Modern Lithograph Portraits, Judaica, Jewish Print, Mid 20th Century

Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wardrobes and Armoires

20th Century Osvaldo Borsani Two Mirrored Doors Closet with Lights for ABV, 40s

Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Room '56 bedroom closet for Dico, 1950's

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Mid-Century Modern Folding Dining Chairs, Set of 4

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Italian mid-century modern oval wall mirror, 1950s

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Italian mid-century modern wooden chest of drawers, 1960s

Mid-20th Century Persian Mid-Century Modern Persian Rugs

Vintage Persian Afshar Rug with Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-20th Century Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs

Vintage Turkish Tulu Rug with Mid-Century Modern Style

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coat Racks and Stands

Mid Century Modern Vintage Brown Beech Valet Reguitti 1960s Italy

Late 20th Century Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs

Vintage Turkish Kars Runner with Mid-Century Modern Style

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wardrobes and Armoires

Italian closet by Giovanni Gariboldi in lacquered wood and glass

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Sets

Mid Century Modern FOLDING DINING SET / Game Table Set by Stakmore

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Italian mid-century modern wooden brown leather armchair Anonima Castelli 1960s

Mid-20th Century Persian Mid-Century Modern Persian Rugs

Vintage Persian Mashhad Scatter Rug with Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-20th Century Persian Mid-Century Modern Persian Rugs

Vintage Persian Mashhad Scatter Rug with Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-20th Century Moroccan Mid-Century Modern Moroccan and North African ...

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Berber Moroccan Rug with Tribal Design

Late 20th Century Moroccan Mid-Century Modern Moroccan and North African...

Vintage Berber Moroccan Azilal Rug with Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-20th Century Persian Tribal Persian Rugs

Vintage Persian Baluch Rug with Mid-Century Modern Style

Early 20th Century Persian Mid-Century Modern Persian Rugs

Antique Persian Shiraz Rug with Mid-Century Modern Tribal Style

Late 20th Century Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs

Vintage Turkish Kars Gallery Rug with Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-20th Century Turkish Oushak Turkish Rugs

Vintage Turkish Oushak Runner with Mid-Century Modern Style

Late 20th Century Moroccan Mid-Century Modern Moroccan and North African...

Vintage Berber Moroccan Azilal Rug with Mid-Century Modern Style

Late 20th Century Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs

Vintage Turkish Kars Gallery Rug with Mid-Century Modern Style

Vintage 1960s European Mid-Century Modern Benches

Mid-Century Modern Daybed or Bench in Teak and Black Upholstery

Mid-20th Century European Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Large + tall pair of rectangular Mid Century Modern sparkly glass sconces

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Mid-Century Modern Pair of Black Thonet Bentwood and Vinyl Chairs

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Italian mid-century modern rectangular wall mirror with rounded corners, 1950s

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Italian mid-century modern rectangular wall mirror with glass knobs, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs

Distressed Vintage Turkish Sivas Rug with Rustic Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-20th Century Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs

Distressed Vintage Turkish Sivas Rug with Rustic Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-20th Century Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs

Distressed Vintage Turkish Sivas Rug with Romantic Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-20th Century Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs

Vintage Caucasian Shirvan Prayer Rug with Mid-Century Modern Tribal Style

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Italian mid-century modern steel floor lamp with black round base, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Turkish Oushak Turkish Rugs

Vintage Turkish Kars Rug with Romantic Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-20th Century Turkish Oushak Turkish Rugs

Vintage Turkish Oushak Rug with Mid-Century Modern Tribal Style

Mid-20th Century Persian Tribal Persian Rugs

Rita Gombinski
Figural Abstract Mid Century Modern Lithograph Portraits, Judaica, Jewish Print, Mid 20th Century