Mid-century style - organic lines and fluid forms
The mid-century style refers to a period in design and architecture history, mainly the 1950s and 1960s. Its development was closely linked to the post-war era, which brought significant socio-economic and cultural changes. The mid-century style originated in the United States, where designers and architects sought new forms and technologies to adapt to post-war needs and changing lifestyles. It was a time of optimism and progress, contributing to the evolution of modern design.
The Bauhaus school of design and architecture, which operated in Germany from 1919 to 1933, also played a vital role in the development of the mid-century style. Bauhaus ideas, such as simplicity of form, functionality, and the use of modern materials, were also guiding principles for creators of the mid-century style. In the 1950s, the mid-century style began to spread to other countries, especially in Europe, where it gained popularity. During this period, mid-century design influenced various fields, such as furniture design, architecture, and art.
Index
- Mid-century style - what distinguishes it?
- Mid-century style in the living room
- Mid century style - bedroom
- Did you know...
- Mid century style - bathroom
- Mid century style in the kitchen
- Mid-century style apartment
Mid-century style - what distinguishes it?
The mid-century style is characterised by simple, organic lines and fluid forms. It utilises natural materials such as wood, glass, steel, and organic fabrics. The light colour scheme, dominated by whites, greys, beiges, and pastels, emphasises elegance and simplicity. Open space is extremely important in mid-century spaces. Retro accents are equally important.
Interiors decorated in the mid-century style exude harmony and balance between functionality and aesthetics. Accessories, such as lamps with distinctive shapes, abstract paintings, or patterned cushions, add individual character to the space. The mid-century style is timeless and continues to inspire contemporary interior arrangements with its harmonious combination of simplicity, naturalness, and functionality.
The mid-century style in the living room
The mid-century style enables the creation of an elegant and characterful living room. To achieve this effect, it's advisable to choose furniture that features simple lines, geometric shapes, and a designer look. Sofas and armchairs with rounded backs, low-set legs, and furniture with V-shaped or trapezoidal table legs are icons of this style. These elements should be primarily comfortable, functional, and made from natural materials such as wood or leather. The living room in the mid-century style should be maintained in contrasting colours. Ideally, the base should consist of timeless colours such as white, beige, or grey, which will provide the perfect backdrop for intense accents (brick orange, juicy lime, or yellow). The entire mid-century living room arrangement should be highlighted by carefully selected accessories. These can include abstract paintings, lamps with unique shapes, cushions in geometric patterns, and greenery.
Mid century style - bedroom
The mid-century style bedroom is a space where spaciousness and minimalism reign supreme. The interior should be as functional as possible. The most important element is a wooden bed with a low frame, devoid of decorations. Behind it, a wooden panel or slats can be placed. The colour scheme of the arrangement should be timeless and quite neutral, although it can be broken up, for example, by decorative pillows in intense colours or a colourful photomural, designer painting, or poster. In addition to the bed, the mid-century bedroom may also feature minimalist bedside tables, a dresser with V-shaped legs, or a dressing table. Lighting plays an incredibly important role in such a room. Choose lamps with a unique appearance that not only highlight the arrangement but also create the right atmosphere in the room.
Did you know...
The mid-century style loves curves and rounded shapes. They are visible in almost every element of the decor – from furniture to accessories. When deciding to design a space in this style, it's worth keeping this in mind. The motif of rounded geometric figures can manifest, for example, in the kitchen in the form of an oval-shaped kitchen island, a bathroom sink, or on textiles, tiles, or mirrors. Rounded shapes can be further emphasized through arches. In the mid-century style, almost everything geometric fits perfectly!
Mid century style - bathroom
When designing a bathroom in the mid-century style, it's advisable to follow the principle that less is more. Best to use light and timeless colours – white or grey will work well. In such a space, it's worthwhile to choose tiles with simple, geometric patterns or characteristic retro motifs that reflect the aesthetic of the original mid-century style. The furniture should be simple and minimalist in form. It's good if they are small, lightweight, and reminiscent in appearance of those from the 1950s. The mid-century bathroom is also a place where metal should be found. It's best introduced through fittings, mirror frames, or brass fixtures.
The mid-century arrangement in the bathroom makes the space look incredibly elegant and transforms the room into a true bathing chamber. Muted colours and timeless accessories emphasise the elegant character of the space and invite true relaxation.
Mid century style in the kitchen
A kitchen styled in mid-century design predominantly features furniture inspired by the 1950s and 60s, known for its exceptional functionality. Organic curves intermingle with straight and geometric shapes, and the furniture is designed to be easily foldable, slidable, etc. In a mid-century kitchen, you might find a freestanding table with additional storage in the form of drawers or a table that slides directly out from the kitchen countertop.
Creating a sense of space is crucial in a mid-century kitchen. Therefore, it's beneficial to optically enlarge it to appear larger than it is in reality. The best solution is to merge the kitchen with the living room and introduce elements that reflect light, such as glass and mirrors. White, serving as an excellent backdrop for contrasting colours, will undoubtedly help in enlarging the space. A strong accent, such as an abstract painting or a photomural that fits the arrangement, can also be a feature in the mid-century kitchen.
Mid-century style apartment
An apartment styled in mid-century fashion will undoubtedly appeal to those who value simplicity, elegance, and the nostalgic charm of the 1950s and 60s. This unique interior design style attracts both design enthusiasts and those looking to create a cosy and unique space. It's also a solution for those who adore classic design. Mid-century interiors are filled with characteristic chairs, tables, sideboards, and lamps that exude a retro style. The mid-century style is also appreciated by individuals for whom functionality and practical solutions matter. An apartment decorated in this manner can be perfect for those seeking a minimalist approach to interior design. Furthermore, the mid-century style may appeal to everyone who wants to introduce a touch of nostalgia and exceptional character into their apartment. It's an interior full of warm, muted colours, natural materials, and unique details that create a cosy and one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
The unique aesthetics of the mid-century style combine modernity with natural elements and functionality. It's the ideal solution for those who wish to create a distinctive arrangement in their interior.