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

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

What defines mid-century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

Who were the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers?

Accepted Answer

Some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers were Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames, Paul Evans, Poul Kjærholm, Florence Knoll, George Nakashima, Giò Ponti, Hans Wegner, Charlotte Perriand, Sergio Rodrigues and Eero Saarinen.

Question 19

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.

Question 20

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.

Turquoise Mid Century Modern

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Palmette Ceiling Light - four levels, 160 turquoise glasses

21st Century and Contemporary British Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Midcentury Style Italian Lounge Chair in Turquoise

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Turquoise Crystal Ashtray signed by Moser, Italy, 1970s

Vintage 1970s European Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Turquoise lucite vintage pendant lamp, 1970 s

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Serving Bowls

Krenit Bowls, 5 Original Turquoise Enamel, Herbert Krenchel Designed

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Planters, Cachepots and Jardinières

A Pair of Large French Turquoise Garden Tree Planters

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Blue Turquoise Ceramic Table Lamp, Vintage 1960s, With Original Shade

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Italian Turquoise Indigo Striped Glaze Ceramic Lamp

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Vintage Palmette Wall Light - blue and turquoise glasses

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Vintage Metlox PoppyTrail Turquoise Free Form Ruffled Bowl

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Planters, Cachepots and Jardin...

1950s Hull Pottery Pink and Turquoise Footed Planter

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Contemporary Italian Single Two Globe Turquoise Murano Glass Brass Sconce

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Contemporary Italian Single Two Globe Turquoise Murano Glass Brass Sconce

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Raymor Pinecone Vase, Ceramic, Brown and Turquoise

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Small 1960s Hexagonal Italian Murano Turquoise Clear Glass Vase

Mid-20th Century Spanish Mid-Century Modern Planters, Cachepots and Jard...

Turquoise Woven Porcelain Cachepot on Scroll Feet, Spain Midcentury

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

1950s Turquoise Aqua White Porcelain, Brass Table Lamp

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes

Vintage Raymor Ceramic Lidded Flower Box Italian Turquoise , White Hallmarked

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Vases

Biot Large turquoise blue blown glass vase France

Mid-20th Century Italian Post-Modern Decorative Bowls

1970’s turquoise and green Murano Centerpiece Bowl

Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Vintage Gustavsberg Argenta Turquoise Green Ceramic Bowl With Silver Lines

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Large Murano glass Chandelier -100 turquoise Felci glasses

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Italian Brass Turquoise Painted Wood Wall Mirror, 1970s

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

1960s Stacking Turquoise Fiberglass Krueger Metal Products Chairs, Set of 4

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Large Murano glass Chandelier - 101 turquoise tube glasses

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Turquoise "Veranda" Armchairs by Vico Magistretti for Cassina, Italy, L. 20th C.

Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Augarten Vienna Turquoise Midcentury Fine Porcelaine Ashtray, Austria, 1950s

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

1980 s French Style Turquoise And Brass Large Coffee Table

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Contemporary Italian Pair of Two Globe Turquoise Murano Glass Brass Sconces

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Restored Midcentury Pink Turquoise Beech Armchairs, 1960s, Set of 2

Late 20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

1960/70s Danish Large turquoise Ceramic Platter by Kähler

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of vintage Murano turquoise Felci Glass wall sconces

Vintage 1950s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Pepe Mendoza Brass and Turquoise Enamel Folding Bamboo Side Table, 1950s

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Amazing spherical Murano polyhedrons Chandelier - 140 turquoise polyhedrons

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Italian Bitossi Turquoise Green, Caramel Brown Ceramic Table Lamp

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

Vintage Bright Turquoise Overdyed Wool Rug, Shabby Chic

2010s Portuguese Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Bar Chair Karl in Black structure and Clean Turquoise

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Glass

Vintage Higgins Fused Glass Turquoise Gold, White, Green Platter or Charger

Vintage 1950s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes

Sigi Pineda MCM Silver, Brass, Rosewood, Sodalite, Turquoise Stone Hinged Box

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces