Mid Century Modern Design
1,531
240,071
16,949
3,853
to
23,347
128,275
124,355
259,398
247,554
250,455
225,371
14,037
4,302
2,417
507
378
251
127
115
103
80
63
39
39
35
31
21
18
492
1,233
238,292
20,816
2,359
173,973
50,232
353
89
766
1,942
5,813
48,439
59,545
35,141
5,862
1,895
110,382
107,353
50,454
44,510
42,167
175,856
60,616
58,354
54,390
50,491
3,333
2,753
2,609
2,127
2,114
Sort By
Rörstrand Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Design Ceramic Vase, 1950s
By Rörstrand
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern design ceramic vase designed by Rörstrand with matte glaze, Sweden
Category
Antique 1650s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vases
Materials
Ceramic
Mid-Century Modern Design Rug inspired by Stained glass & Unique Complexion
Located in Atlanta, GA
Mid-Century Modern Design Rug inspired by Stained glass & Unique Complexion
Measures: 4' x 6'8
Category
Mid-20th Century Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs
Materials
Wool
Scandinavian Midcentury Modern Design Solid Brass Vase 1950s
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Scandinavian midcentury modern design vase in solid brass produed in Denmark, circa 1950s.
Please
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vases
Materials
Brass
Italian Mid-Century Modern Design Brass Wall Mirror, 1950s
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian Mid-Century Modern design oval wall mirror with brass frame, 1950s.
Please note that the
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Design Rug inspired by Stained glass & Unique Complexion
Located in Atlanta, GA
Mid-Century Modern Design Rug inspired by Stained glass Design
Mid-Century Modern Design Rug
Category
Mid-20th Century Turkish Oushak Turkish Rugs
Materials
Wool
Big Vase Venturina Stones Mid-Century Modern Design Bitossi Ceramic, 1960
By Bitossi
Located in Palermo, Sicily
Big vase Venturina stones Mid-Century Modern design Bitossi ceramic, 1960.
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases
Materials
Ceramic
Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Design Dark Wood Bookcase, Denmark, 1960s
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern design dark wood bookcase with variable height position of shelves
Category
Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Bookcases
Materials
Wood
H 55.32 in W 66.93 in D 11.42 in
Mid-Century Modern Design Bamboo High Backrest Chairs Italian Design Iron Feet
Located in Palermo, Sicily
Mid-Century Modern design bamboo high backrest chairs Italian design iron feet.
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Iron
H 39.38 in W 23.63 in D 25.6 in
Italian Midcentury Modern Design Wood and Red Fabric Armchairs, 1950s
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Set of two Italian Mid-Century Modern design armchairs with legs structure in solid wood and with
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Fabric, Wood
H 29.53 in W 23.23 in D 25.6 in
Stilnovo Italian Midcentury Modern Design White Floor lamp, 1960s
By Stilnovo
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian Mid-Century Modern design Stilnovo floor lamp with white lacquered adjustable spot
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal
Grete Jalk Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Design Teak Bookcases, 1950s
By Grete Jalk, Poul Jeppesens Møbelfabrik
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern design teak bookcases set designed by Grete Jalk and produced by P
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases
Materials
Teak
H 46.46 in W 42.52 in D 11.82 in
1960s Mid-Century Modern Design Style Black Wooden and Black Metal Chair
Located in Tourcoing, FR
1960s Mid-Century Modern Design style black Mahogany wooden feet and black metal chair.
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Metal
H 31.5 in W 20.48 in D 17.72 in
Round Gold Table Coffee Glass Top Italian Mid-Century Modern Design, 1950s
Located in Palermo, Sicily
Round gold table coffee glass top Italian Mid-Century Modern design, 1950s.
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Design Textural Ivory Geometric Shoowa Rug
Located in Milan, IT
Shoowa is part of our Textural collection of contemporary carpets inspired by Mid-Century Modern
Category
2010s Indian Mid-Century Modern Western European Rugs
Materials
Wool
Italian Mid-Century Modern Design Dark Wood Hanging Night Stands, 1960s
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian Mid-Century Modern design darkwood hanging night stands, circa 1960.
Please note that the
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Night Stands
Materials
Wood
H 13.98 in W 27.17 in D 13.59 in
Italian Mid-Century Modern Design Dark Wood Hanging Night Stands, 1960s
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian Mid-Century Modern design darkwood hanging night stands, circa 1960.
Please note that the
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Night Stands
Materials
Wood
H 13.98 in W 27.17 in D 13.59 in
Ivo Sassi Italian Mid-Century Modern Design Ceramic Vases Set, 1950s
By Ivo Sassi
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian Mid-Century Modern design ceramic vases set series “Gli Etruschi” designed by italian
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ceramics
Materials
Ceramic
Nazmiyal Collection Flatweave Mid Century Modern Design Kilim Rug 13'2" x 19'
By Nazmiyal Collection
Located in New York, NY
A Magnificent Large Size Contemporary Flatweave Geometric Mid Century Modern Design Kilim Area Rug
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Central Asian Mid-Century Modern Central A...
Materials
Wool
Mid-Century Modern Design Low Side Chair Set, Italy, 1950s
By Augusto Bozzi
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Mid-Century Modern design low chair set of 2 in the style of Augusto Bozzi. Made in Italy
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Design Textural Geometric Blue Ivory Jules Carpet
Located in Milan, IT
Jules is part of our Textural collection of contemporary carpets inspired by Mid-Century Modern
Category
2010s Indian Mid-Century Modern Russian and Scandinavian Rugs
Materials
Wool
Rosenthal Mid-Century Modern Design Multi-Color Porcelain Bottle Vase, 1960s
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Mid-Century Modern design Rosenthal multi-color porcelain bottle or vase with Rosenthal Logo
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Bottles
Materials
Porcelain
H 10.63 in W 2.56 in D 2.56 in
Aldo Tura Box Ice Goatsking Brown Italian Mid-Century Modern Design 1950s Cube
By Aldo Tura
Located in Palermo, Sicily
Aldo Tura box ice goatsking brown Italian Mid-Century Modern design 1950s cube.
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Materials
Metal
H 9.06 in W 9.06 in D 7.09 in
Mid-Century Modern Design Sliding Door Filing Cabinet, 1960s, Belgium
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Mid-Century Modern design sliding door filing cabinet, made in Belgium 1960s. Wood with
Category
Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Cabinets
Materials
Wood
H 45.28 in W 49.22 in D 16.34 in
Distressed Turkish Rug with Mid-Century Modern Design in Light green
Located in Atlanta, GA
Distressed Turkish Rug with Mid-Century Modern Design.
Rendered on a muted background with a floral
Category
Vintage 1950s Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs
Materials
Wool
Mid-Century Modern Design Turkish Zeki Müren Rug in Golden and Sand Colors
Located in Atlanta, GA
Attributed to the famous Turkish rug designer, Zeki Müren, this Mid-Century modern design rug
Category
Vintage 1960s Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs
Materials
Wool
Mid-Century Modern Design Turkish Rug, Vintage Modern Carpet in Bright Yellow
Located in Atlanta, GA
Mid-Century Modern Design Turkish Rug, Vintage Modern Carpet in Bright Yellow.
Rendered in a bright
Category
Vintage 1950s Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs
Materials
Wool
Italian Dark Wood Midcentury Modern Design Cabinet Chest of Drawers 1960s
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian midcentury modern design dark wood and solid wood chest of drawers consisting of five large
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood
H 49.81 in W 29.53 in D 18.71 in
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Design Russel Wright Red Lacquer Nightstands
By Conant Ball, Russel Wright
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
Pair of Mid-Century Modern design Russel Wright Dark Red lacquer Single drawer nightstands. Made
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Night Stands
Materials
Wood, Maple, Lacquer
Stilnovo Italian Mid-Century Modern Design Brass Metal Wall Lights 1960s
By Stilnovo
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian Mid-Century Modern design set of eight scones wall lamps produced by Stilnovo with
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Brass, Metal
Mid-Century Modern Design Floor Lamp by Vibia Spain, 1970's
By Vibia
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Hollywood Regency Style Midcentury Modern Design Brass Floor Lamp by Vibia, made in Spain
Category
Vintage 1970s Spanish Hollywood Regency Floor Lamps
Materials
Brass
Italian Carlo Zauli Midcentury Modern Design Decorative Ceramic Wall Plate 1950s
By Carlo Zauli
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian midcentury modern design decorative ceramic wall plate designed by the Italian artist Carlo
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ceramics
Materials
Ceramic
H 0.99 in Dm 10.83 in
Midcentury Modern Design Chest of Drawers, Belgium 1960's
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage "One of a Kind" Midcentury Modern Design Chest of Drawers. Made in Belgium, 1960's period
Category
Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Carrara Marble
Ivo Sassi Mid-Century Modern Design Italian Ceramic Vases Bottles Set, 1950s
By Ivo Sassi
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Italian Mid-Century Modern design ceramic vases or bottles set serie “Gli Etruschi” designed by
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bottles
Materials
Ceramic
H 12.6 in W 9.85 in D 2.76 in
Minimalist Tripod Pine Stool, Mid-Century Modern Design, Sweden
By Ingvar Hildingsson
Located in Copenhagen, DK
A beautiful, minimalistic tripod stool in stained solid pine, mid-century modern design, Sweden
Category
20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Stools
Materials
Pine
Mid-Century Modern Design Dining Chair Set by Ton, 1968, Czechoslovakia
By Thonet
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Mid-Century Modern design dining chair set by TON, 1968 Czechoslovakia. In the style of
Category
Vintage 1960s Czech Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Fabric, Beech
H 31.3 in W 16.15 in D 17.33 in
Nazmiyal Collection Mid-century Modern Design Rug. 9 ft 5 in x 12 ft 3 in
By Nazmiyal Collection
Located in New York, NY
Nazmiyal Collection Stylish Mid-century Modern Design Contemporary Rug. Country of Origin: Central
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Central Asian Mid-Century Modern Central A...
Materials
Wool
Original Vintage Poster Lottery Bulgaria Midcentury Modern Design Travel Abroad
Located in London, GB
great mid-century modern design illustration of a man dressed in a long coat and hat and holding a
Category
Vintage 1960s Bulgarian Mid-Century Modern Posters
Materials
Paper
H 13 in W 37.01 in D 0.04 in
Mid-Century Modern Design Nesting Tables by G-Plan 1960 Teak Stacking Tables
By G Plan Furniture
Located in Ijzendijke, NL
Gorgeous set of Mid-Century Modern design nesting tables in teak by G-Plan 1960.
The 3 tables
Category
Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Nesting Tables and Stacking Tables
Materials
Teak
Free Shipping
H 20.48 in W 22.05 in D 15.95 in
Mid-Century Modern Design Wengé & Paper Cord Dining Chair Set, Belgium 1960's
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Design Wengé & Paper Cord Dining Chair set of 6. Made Belgium in the
Category
Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Rush, Wenge
H 30.71 in W 20.08 in D 17.72 in
Mid-Century Modern Design Technics Table Lamp
By Design Technics
Located in New York, NY
1960s modern design technics ceramic table lamp.
Shade for photography only.
Height to light
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Vintage Turkish rug with Mid-Century Modern Design in Dusty Blue, Brown, L.Green
Located in Atlanta, GA
Vintage Turkish rug with Mid-Century Modern Design in Dusty Blue, Brown, L.Green
This extraordinary
Category
Vintage 1950s Turkish Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs
Midcentury Modern Design Dining Chair set in the style of Charlotte Perriand
By Charlotte Perriand
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Midcentury Modern Design Dining Chair set of 4 in the Style of Charlotte Perriand 'Meribel
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Faux Leather, Beech
H 35.04 in W 15.75 in D 16.54 in
Flavio Poli Mid-Century Modern Design Pendant Glass Lamp for Seguso Italy 1950s
By Seguso Vetri d'Arte, Flavio Poli
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Tan France Auction Pick
Italian midcentury modern design glass pendant lamp designed by Flavio
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
H 64.18 in Dm 25.6 in
Mid-Century Modern Design Glass Sconce Wall Lamp Set by BUR Leuchten, 1960's
By Bur Leuchten
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Mid-Century Modern design glass sconce wall lamp set of 2 by BUR Leuchten. Made in West
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Metal
Free Shipping
H 8.67 in W 8.67 in D 3.94 in
Midcentury Modern Design Pair of Office Arm Chairs by Brune, Germany 1960's
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Midcentury Modern Design pair of Office Arm Chairs by Brune, made in Germany 1960's. Rare
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Metal
H 36.62 in W 24.81 in D 25.01 in
Mid-Century Modern Design Robin Chair Set by Pierre Guariche for Meurop, 1950's
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Mid-Century Modern design Robin dining chair set of 2 by Pierre Guariche for Meurop, made
Category
Vintage 1950s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Metal
H 33.08 in W 16.54 in D 19.69 in
Turkish Tulu Carpet with Mid-Century Modern Design in Brown, Off-White and Blue
Located in Atlanta, GA
This fantastic Turkish Tulu rug features a stunning Mid-Century Modern design enclosed within a
Category
Mid-20th Century Turkish Tulu Turkish Rugs
Materials
Wool
Space Age Midcentury Modern Design Nesting Table set by Opal, Germany 1960's
By Opal
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Space Age Midcentury Modern Design Nesting Table set by Opal. Made in Germany, 1960's
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Nesting Tables and Stacking Tables
Materials
Wood, Wenge
Free Shipping
H 21.66 in Dm 14.97 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Design rocking chair by Takeshi Nii 1960 Black leather
By Takeshi Nii
Located in Ijzendijke, NL
the chance to own a piece of mid-century modern design history with this beautiful black leather
Category
Vintage 1960s Japanese Mid-Century Modern Rocking Chairs
Materials
Chrome
Free Shipping
H 34.65 in W 22.84 in D 33.08 in
Danish Mid-Century Modern Design Hans Wegner Peacock Chair
By Johannes Hansen, Hans J. Wegner
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
A Mid-Century Modern PP550 ‘Peacock’ chair designed by Hans Wegner in 1947 for Johannes Hansen
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Papercord, Ash, Teak
Mid-Century Modern Design Leather Office Chair, Italy, 1988
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Design leather office desk chair, made in Italy, 1988
Category
Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Office Chairs and Desk Chairs
Materials
Metal, Chrome
Scandinavian Midcentury Modern Design Dark Wood Cabinet, 1960s
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Tan France Auction Pick
Mid-century Scandinavian elegant e very raffinate dark wood cabinet with
Category
Antique 1660s Danish Scandinavian Modern Cabinets
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Design Armchair Set, Denmark, 1950's
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Midcentury Scandinavian Design Armchair set of 2, made in Denmark 1950's / 60's. Pale
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Fabric, Teak
Italian Mid-Century Modern Design Black Wooden Table Lamp
By Osvaldo Borsani
Located in Brescia, IT
designed by Osvaldo Borsani, an iconic designer who lived and worked in Milan, during the Late 20th Century
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Fabric, Wood
Italian Stool Mid century modern design Fabric and wool
Located in Palermo, Sicily
Italian stool of very particular design, cotton and silk blend fabric, mahogany donut foot.
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Stools
Materials
Fabric, Mahogany
Sven Andersen Teak Sideboard, Timeless Scandinavian & MidCentury Modern Design
Located in Wrocław, Poland
blends the timeless elegance of Scandinavian Modern design with the iconic flair of Mid-Century Modern
Category
Vintage 1950s Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Brass
H 32.29 in W 68.9 in D 16.93 in
Set of 4 Mid-Century Modern Design Side Dining Chairs
Located in Bridgeport, CT
four Mid-Century Modern style Italian dining chairs. Beautiful solid light oak frame with original
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Leather, Oak
Table Lamps Brass Midcentury Modern Design Italy 1960/70s
Located in Palermo, IT
Table lamp of considerable dimensions produced in Italy in the 60/70s. Brass structure, black enamelled base and fabric diffuser. In the center there is a sculpture depicting a dance...
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass, Bronze, Enamel
Mid-Century Modern Design "Fanett" Style Armchair Set, Denmark, 1950s
By Ilmari Tapiovaara
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Design "FANETT" Style armchair set of 2, Denmark 1950s. In
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Wood, Birch
H 30.91 in W 24.02 in D 18.12 in
Jorge Zalszupin's Presidential Lounge Chair, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Design
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in Sao Paulo, SP
The "Presidencial" lounge lounge armchair is a true icon of Brazilian modern design, created by the
Category
Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Chrome
H 31 in W 49 in D 31 in
- 1
- ...
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Mid Century Modern Design", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.
Mid Century Modern Design For Sale on 1stDibs
Find many varieties of an authentic mid century modern design available at 1stDibs. Each mid century modern design for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using metal, wood and glass. Find 11007 options for an antique or vintage mid century modern design now, or shop our selection of 604 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Your living room may not be complete without a mid century modern design — find older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A mid century modern design made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Scandinavian Modern — is very popular. Many designers have produced at least one well-made mid century modern design over the years, but those crafted by Dansk Designs, Design Institute America and Jens Harald Quistgaard are often thought to be among the most beautiful.
How Much is a Mid Century Modern Design?
The average selling price for a mid century modern design at 1stDibs is $2,155, while they’re typically $1 on the low end and $250,000 for the highest priced.
A Close Look at Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living.
ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Emerged during the mid-20th century
- Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
- A heyday of innovation in postwar America
- Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe
CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
- A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
- Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
- Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
- Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
- Promotion of functionality
MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
- Charles and Ray Eames
- Eero Saarinen
- Milo Baughman
- Florence Knoll
- Harry Bertoia
- Isamu Noguchi
- George Nelson
- Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa
ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS
- Eames lounge chair
- Nelson daybed
- Florence Knoll sofa
- Egg chair
- Womb chair
- Noguchi coffee table
- Barcelona chair
VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS
The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.
Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. 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.
Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer.
Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.
The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by legendary manufacturer Knoll, 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 — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.
As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.
Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.
As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.
Questions About Mid Century Modern Design
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
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.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019The 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024The 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
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.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid century modern furniture refers to pieces designed during 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. - Is Eames mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024The 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. - Is Mondrian mid century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Most 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.
- Is mid-century modern timeless?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024Yes, 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.
- Is rattan mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, 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.
- Is Art Deco mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
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.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024There 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Mid-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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024There 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023Some 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.
Read More
The 21 Most Popular Mid-Century Modern Chairs
You know the designs, now get the stories about how they came to be.
Iconic Furniture Makes This 1958 Midwestern Home a True Mid-Century Gem
Designer Susan Yeley turned to 1stDibs to outfit an Indiana home with standout pieces that complement its modernist style.
The Ultimate Guide to Types of Tables for the Home
Whether you’re just moving in or ready to give your home a makeover, our guide will give you pointers on tables that are fitting for every room, nook and hallway.
Why Is Italy Such a Hotbed of Cool Design?
Patrizio Chiarparini of Brooklyn’s Duplex gallery sheds light on the lasting legacy of Italy’s postwar furniture boom.
Welcome Back to Designer Russel Wright’s Mid-Century Hudson Valley Home
The industrial designer was known for his sleek, modern dinnerware, but his 1961 house and the landscape around it may be his most astonishing creation.
Cara Greenberg Wrote the Book on Mid-Century Modern Furniture. Here Are Her Auction Finds
The author and design expert was among the first to define the style and coined its alliterative name. She shares her favorite pieces on 1stDibs Auctions — including some steals.
Jochum Rodgers Has Long Brought the Best of 20th-Century Design to Berlin and Beyond
Opened by Hans-Peter Jochum some 40 years ago, the pioneering gallery specializes in mid-century gems but also spotlights contemporary pieces by European artists and makers.
A Guide to Herman Miller’s Most Iconic Furniture
The prolific manufacturer has partnered with many of the world’s top designers since opening its doors in 1923. Here are some of the company’s greatest hits, which helped transform the American home and office.
More Ways To Browse
Large Glass Globe Pendant Lamp
Vintage Brass Wall Scones
Mcm Storage
Large Round Pendant Lamps
Set Of 4 Brass Sconces
Black Brutalist Cabinet
Set Of 4 Midcentury Sconces
Mid Century Round Extension Dining Table
Mid Century German Sideboard
German Midcentury Sideboard
Mid Century Wall Lights Set Of 4
Round Extension Midcentury Dining Table
Door Handles Germany
2 Chairs Metal Legs
Glass Globes Lamp Ceiling Pendant
Stilnovo Original Table Lamp
Large Globe Pendant Fixture
Metal Minimalist Sconce