Confusion about the differences between modern and mid-century modern design styles abounds. This guide provides clarification about each style, including when it evolved and some key elements of each one so you can create cohesive interior designs.
Mid-Century Modern
The mid-century modern design style evolved around the middle of the 20th century as a subset of modern design principles. It was primarily in response to the overabundance of the romantic styles that dominated the post-war period. Mid-century modern designs also took full advantage of mass-production technology developed earlier in the century.
The Use of Color
Mid-century modern decor has a heavy base of soft and warm neutrals with natural greens, oranges, and golds. However, it doesn’t stop there. Bold colors can also play a role in this style which has a strong retro feeling. Look for geometric artwork, funky glass lamps, and big patterns throughout a mid-century modern-styled home.
Light is also crucial to achieving a cohesive mid-century modern look. Large windows and airy spaces make the most of the smaller rooms it evolved to fill.
Lines and Silhouettes
Clean but soft lines dominate this popular style, whose smaller pieces maximize available space. A few favorite elements include:
- Curved backs and rounded arms on chairs
- Tapered table and chair legs
- Geometric shapes, including many round pieces
Materials and Finishes
Natural materials dominate mid-century modern furniture design. Wood with warm finishes is a preferred construction material. However, you will also see various natural materials incorporated, such as woven rope seats on mid-century dining chairs. The style also lent itself to a playful mix of finishes, including metals, acrylic, and vinyl.
Modern Design Style
The modern design style (not to be confused with contemporary design) is actually a precursor to its mid-century counterpart. It evolved in the early part of the 20th century and favored utilitarianism. It is the embodiment of functionality in that there are no (or minimal) decorative accents; instead, all pieces focus on the purpose they serve.
The Use of Color
Modern design is all about neutral colors, including whites, grays, beige, and pastels. These are accented by natural light and open spaces.
Lines and Silhouettes
Most modern furniture has clean and straight lines inspired by the Scandinavian style. Furniture pieces are often designed solely for their intended purpose with little detailing or ornamentation.
Materials and Finishes
Modern designs favor natural materials, such as wood and leather. Therefore, you are likely to find wooden tables, naturally-upholstered furniture, and an attractive leather ottoman in a modern-styled living room.
Putting It Together
Both modern and mid-century styles favor clean lines, functionality, and an understated aesthetic. They also both use natural materials, although plastics, fiberglass, and acrylic have increasingly crept into the latter. The result is that both produce an uncluttered space filled with natural materials.
On the other hand, you are more likely to encounter bold pops of color, decorative accents, and abstract art in mid-century modern decor than its predecessor.
Poly & Bark offers a perfect blend of modern and mid-century modern furniture for your home. See what’s new in the online store and discover your next favorite piece.
Sources:
https://www.thespruce.com/things-you-should-know-about-mid-century-1391827
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/contemporary-interior-design-101
https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/midcentury-modern-style-101
https://www.masterclass.com/articles/mid-century-modern-design-guide
https://www.masterclass.com/articles/modern-design-guide
https://www.thespruce.com/decorating-in-the-modern-style-452457