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Defining the Mid-Century Modern Style

Defining the Mid-Century Modern Style Decor in Edmonton, AB

There are so many different styles of interior décor, and mid-century modern décor is one of the most enduring. It has been around since the 1930s, but do you know how to define this popular aesthetic? Many people shoot for mid-century modern and get it wrong, but by keeping a few factors in mind you can become a pro at mid-century modern interior design.

How do you create mid-century modern style? Interestingly, while this style evolved from the 30s to the 70s, the term “mid-century modern” was not defined as a design aesthetic until the 1980s, when author Cara Greenburg wrote a book entitled Mid-Century Modern, furniture of the 1950s. It began much earlier than the 50s, though, as a response to the ornate stuffiness that had defined interior design in the preceding decades. Mid-century design is unpretentious and casual, with a focus on function and a lounge-ready vibe. The look is structured, practical, and durable, with natural elements and slight designed flourishes for interest. Creating mid-century modern style can be done with a few quiet quirks, and this kind of décor is perfect for people looking for a subtle way to incorporate vintage touches.

Modern colours range from warm, earthy tones to kitschy, bright hues, embracing everything from moody sage and rust to bright primary colours. Grounded in neutrals, a mid-century modern home interior offers room to play with colours like turquoise and yellow, splashing bright accents into an otherwise sober space. Think of a neutral living room with a bright accent chair, decorated with abstract prints, patterns, and art that is light on cultural references.

Mid-century style furniture is beautiful in its simplicity, minimal in looks, and entirely grounded in functionality. Mid-century pieces were built to last, and each piece has a purpose. Think clean lines, simplicity, and practicality, without clutter or excessive ornamentation. Hairpin legs, gorgeous silhouettes, low streamlined seating, and new to the era materials like plastic, acrylic, and even formica, in addition to natural materials like wood. Statement pieces like large plants or striking sculptures contrast with a few simple, streamlined furniture to create a harmonious look.

Textiles whether used in a mid-century modern living room, bedroom, dining room, or kitchen, are likely to feature playful prints, full of geometrical graphics. During the mid-century era, these patterns were likely to be heavy on the kitsch, but to create a cohesive look that works in today’s home, work with a fresh, concise colour scheme and use patterned textiles in small doses. One statement-making element is plenty; you want your room to have a timeless appeal and not seem overtly retro.

Windows are an important part of mid-century style, since a major part of this aesthetic is incorporating natural elements and bringing the outside in. Mid-century architecture often featured homes integrated with their surroundings, and windows were typically large and flat-panelled. If you are going for a mid-century feel, let light stream in through every available window, using sheer, solid drapes and window treatments that can easily be pulled back to allow you a view of nature. Simple, neutral, symmetrical window fabrications offer an updated take on mid-century modern design. It is important to balance the look of your décor, not going overboard on the vintage but keeping a pleasing mix.

Mid-century modern makes the most of geometric shapes, focusing on clean lines. Just as this stye mixes organic and synthetic materials, it also features a mix of organic and geometric shape, with an emphasis on simplicity of design. Some of the simplest pieces made in the mid-century style are the most beautiful, with a purity that eschews elaboration.

Since Mobler Furniture opened, back in 1993, we have been committed to our clients and passionate about modern furniture design. Since that first opening day, we have moved to a new, more inviting location, but our goal has remained the same: to provide high-quality, modern furniture, at an affordable price, in a comfortable atmosphere. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to answer any and all questions, and our showroom is beautifully organized and easy to shop. Our beautiful showroom in Edmonton features customised interior lighting and flooring material, so that we can present our unique, contemporary designs in a modern setting. This shows our furniture to its best advantage, in order to allow you to visualise how each piece would look inside your home. We also offer furniture delivery and assembly, with a professional, courteous delivery staff that not only delivers your items to their desired locations safely but also removes extra packaging from your home so that you can enjoy your new furniture without any clean up. Call us at 866-820-0510 to learn more about our commitment to quality, visit us at our showroom in Edmonton, Alberta, or contact us through our website.