What is Mid-Century Modern?

Mid-century modern is a design term applied most frequently to residential (and some commercial) architecture, interior design and furniture. Related to the Space Age, the International style and Googie, mid-century modern translated the ideology of Modernism into a sleek, cool, yet accessible lifestyle. Mid-century modernism was more organic in form and less serious than the International Style. Scandinavian and Finnish designers and architects were very prolific at this time, with a style characterized by simplicity, democratic design and organic shapes. They had an influence on Mid-century modernism in the rest of the world, including the US. Mid-century modernism has become popular in recent times, and has influenced contemporary modern design profoundly.

Standard designers of the mid-century modern era include: Eero Saarinen, Arne Jacobsen, Alvar Aalto, Rudolf Schindler, Richard Neutra, Charles and Ray Eames, George Nelson, Hans Wegner, and Craig Ellwood.

As a child I hated this modern style and longed to live among the nineteenth century antiques. Then I met Jane Trahey who hired me to work in her ad agency in New York City. The agency was filled with what is now called Mid-Century modern furnishings. That began my love affair with the clean lines and the sexy curves of this wonderfully graphic furniture.

Many of my Graphic Designer friends have been collecting items created by Eames, Herman Miller, Knoll and George Nelson for years. These are now high-ticket items that sell for as much as $25,000. Prices are also going up on the lesser-known designers of this period. When shopping for new furniture it is easy to see that many of todays designers are influenced by mid-century modern.

What stands out for me are the starburst clock designs and the pendant lighting. If you're looking to begin a collection of Mid-Century modern, this is a good place to start.

You can purchase vintage items or new items. Many of these classic designs are still in production. Visit ModeModerne.com for a fabulous selection of vintage items and check out their collection of clocks.