Is sofa American or British?

Sofa is both American and British. In the UK, sofa is the most commonly used term for an upholstered piece of furniture designed to seat two people or more. Americans use the word sofa as well. However, couch is the more popular name for sofas in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.

What do Americans call a sofa?

What Americans call a sofa varies. Often, people living in the U.S. refer to an upholstered furnishing designed to hold more than one person as a couch. However, the word sofa is also commonly used in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.

What is 1950s furniture called?

1950s furniture is called vintage furniture. Some pieces produced during this period may be considered mid-century modern based on their characteristics. Mid-century modern design refers to the variety of modernism that rose to prominence in the 1940s and ’50s. It displays many of the characteristics of the earlier versions of modernism, including simple forms and a focus on functionality. Other traits common in mid-century modern furniture include unadorned silhouettes, clean lines and mixed materials, emphasizing wood, wool, steel and plastic. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of 1950s furniture.

Were pearls popular in the 1950s?

Yes. While the gem has always been a mainstay in jewelry, there was a boom in demand for pearl pieces in the 1950s. The style at the time was black-and-white-chic, and pearls were an excellent accompaniment to pieces like the classic little black dress. Shop a collection of expertly vetted pearl jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What watches were popular in 1950s?

Some popular watches for men during the 1950s were the Rolex Submariner, the Enicar Sherpa Dive, the Breitling Navitimer, Omega, Constellation and the Rolex GMT-Master. Rolex, Timex, Orvin, Tower and Elgin were among the top watchmakers for women during the decade. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary watches.

What was the clothing style in the 1950s?

The clothing style in the 1950s was well tailored and classic. For women, dresses with padded busts, cinched waists and hips, and full circle skirts were popular, and the collared button-up shirt dress came into fashion during the decade. Men tended to wear suits in neutral gray, dark blue and brown colors made out of easy-to-care-for synthetic fabrics. Straight-cut double-breasted blazers were commonly worn for casual occasions. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of vintage clothing from the 1950s.

What diamond cuts were popular in the 1950s?

In the 1950s, several diamond cuts were popular. They included the brilliant round cut, the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. Rings that featured a large central stone flanked by smaller baguettes were also trendy during the decade. Find a collection of vintage diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.

How much was a Chanel bag in the 1950s?

In the 1950s, a Chanel bag was priced between $200 and $300. The iconic Chanel 2.55 bag cost $220 when first introduced in February 1955. Accounting for inflation, that works out to around $2,536 in today's money. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Chanel bags from some of the world's top boutiques.

What were the popular diamond cuts in the 1950s?

There were a few popular diamond cuts in the 1950s. One was the brilliant round cut, which is still common today due to its simple shape and prominent sparkle. Other favorite cuts of the decade included the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of engagement rings.

What is the 1950s furniture style called?

The best-known 1950s furniture style is called mid-century modern. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three phrases that describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style emerged primarily in the years following World War II through creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Mid-century modern designers combined natural and human-made materials, such as teak, rosewood and oak woods as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. Some well-known mid-century modern designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of mid-century modern furniture.

Which designer was called the Mother of American Fashion in the 1940s?

Claire McCardell was the designer often called the Mother of American Fashion in the 1940s. An American designer, she helped introduce women's sportswear to the United States and was particularly well-known for her bias-cut, loose-fitting Monastic dress. When World War II broke out in the 1940s, she designed pieces out of readily available materials like denim, calico and wool jersey, introducing new fabrics for women's clothing that would remain popular well after the close of the war. Many people point to McCardell as one of the first successful American fashion designers. Shop a collection of Claire McCardell apparel on 1stDibs.

Which artist became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s?

Frank Stella is the artist who became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s. These works featured bands of black paint separated by thin, precise stripes of bare canvas. At a time when contemporary painting was all about wild gestures, thick paint and formal abandon, the “Black Paintings” created a sensation. Explore a range of Frank Stella art on 1stDibs.

American 1950s Sofa

Green Velvet Sofas

Wood Back Sofa

1959 Wood Couch

Mid Century Iron Sofas

Mid Century Modern Brown Velvet Couch

Frank Lloyd Wright Henredon Sofa

Heywood Wakefield Sofa

1950s Daybed Couch

American Designer, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, USA, 1950s

$6,800

American Designer, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

An adjustable wood and fabric paddle-arm sofa designed and produced in USA, c. 1950s. In good vintage condition, with visible wear consistent with age and use. Scuffs and abrasions ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, USA, 1950s

$14,600

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A dark-stained oak and brown red fabric sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. In very good vintage condition, with light wear consistent with age and use. Light surface sc...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Oak

American Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, USA, 1950s

$7,600

American Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A beige velvet and dark-stained wood sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Wear consistent with age and use. Vintage fabric ideally replaced. Overall Dimensions (inches):...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Wood

American Designer, Sofa, Fabric, Wood, USA, 1950s

$9,800

American Designer, Sofa, Fabric, Wood, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A beige fabric and dark-stained wood sofa or loveseat likely designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Wear consistent with age and use. Vintage fabric ideally reupholstered. Ove...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, USA, 1950s

$12,400

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A carved oak and green fabric sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Wear consistent with age and use. Overall Dimensions (inches): 31.5"H x 78.0"W x 35.0"D Seat Height (...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Oak

American Designer, Sofa, Wood, Velvet, USA, 1950s

$10,800

American Designer, Sofa, Wood, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A wood and green velvet sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Wear to wood base consistent with age and use. Reupholstered in brand new green velvet. Overall Dimensions (...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Wood

American Designer, Sofa, Walnut, Velvet, USA, 1950s

$13,800

American Designer, Sofa, Walnut, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A walnut and brown velvet sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Minor imperfections throughout wood frame consistent with normal use. Reupholstered in brand new velvet. ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Walnut

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Velvet, USA, 1950s

$14,500

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

An oak and green-velvet sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Reupholstered in brand new velvet. Dimensions: 37.5” H x 78” W x 35” D Seat Height: 18”

Category

Vintage 1950s American Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Oak

American Designer, Sofa, Iron, Fabric, USA, 1950s

$7,800

American Designer, Sofa, Iron, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

An iron and red fabric sofa or settee designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Cushions reupholstered in brand new fabric. Dimensions: 36.25” H x 49” W x 34” D Seat Height: 18”

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Iron

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, USA, 1950s

$10,500

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

An oak and off-white fabric sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 37” H x 54.5” W x 34” D Seat Height (inches): 18” Arm Height (inches): 21.5”

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Oak

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Velvet, USA, 1950s

$8,900

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A beige velvet and oak sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Reupholstered in brand new velvet. Overall Dimensions (inches): 29.5” H x 60.25” W x 33.5” D Seat Height (in...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Oak

American Designer, Large Sofa, Wood, Fabric, USA, 1950s

$16,800

American Designer, Large Sofa, Wood, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A large curved green fabric and wood sofa designed and produced in the US, 1950s. Seat height: 16” Reupholstered in brand new fabric. All items ship from High Point, North Carolina.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

American Designer, Curved Sofa, Iron, Velvet, USA, 1950s

$14,500

American Designer, Curved Sofa, Iron, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A curved black-painted iron and green velvet sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Reupholstered in brand new velvet. Size of individual section: 30” H x 63” W x 37.5” D ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Iron

American Designer, Sofa, Bamboo, Rattan, Fabric, USA, 1950s

$10,400

American Designer, Sofa, Bamboo, Rattan, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A white fabric, bamboo and rattan sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Wear consistent with age and use. Cushions reupholstered in brand new fabric. Overall Dimensions (...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Bamboo, Rattan

American Designer, Sectional Sofa, Iron, Velvet, USA, 1950s

$12,600

American Designer, Sectional Sofa, Iron, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A black-lacquered iron and orange velvet sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Some staining on fabric. Wear consistent with age and use. Reupholstered at some point in hi...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Iron

American Designer, Sofa, Rattan, Iron, Velvet, USA, 1950s

$14,200

American Designer, Sofa, Rattan, Iron, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A black-lacquered iron, rattan and green velvet sofa designed and produced in the US, 1950. Seat Height (inches): 16.5” Arm Height (inches): 24" Reupholstered in brand new velvet ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Iron

American Designer, Sofa, Bamboo, Rattan, Fabric, USA, 1950s

$9,800

American Designer, Sofa, Bamboo, Rattan, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A bamboo, rattan and green fabric sofa, designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Wear to rattan consistent with age and use. Reupholstered in brand new fabric. Overall Dimension...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Bamboo, Rattan

American Designer, Sofa, Wood, Brass, Velvet, USA, 1950s

$9,800

American Designer, Sofa, Wood, Brass, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A wood, brass and brown yellow velvet sofa or settee designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Scratching and other wear present to wood consistent with age and use. Reupholstere...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Brass

American Designer, Large Sofa, Bamboo, Wood, Fabric, USA, 1950s

$12,600

American Designer, Large Sofa, Bamboo, Wood, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A large two-piece bamboo, wood and white striped fabric sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. In good vintage condition, with visible wear consistent with age and use. Sta...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Bamboo, Wood

Mid-Century Modern American Sofa, Brown Velvet, Wooden Legs, 1950s

$7,762Sale Price|20% Off

Mid-Century Modern American Sofa, Brown Velvet, Wooden Legs, 1950s

Located in Milano, IT

Imposing brown velvet American sofa embodies elegance and comfort in perfect balance. circa 1950s-60s.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Wood

Mid-Century American Modern Embroidered Floral Sofa

$1,800

Mid-Century American Modern Embroidered Floral Sofa

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Elegant 1950s American mid-century sofa composed of an off-white upholstery with a pale taupe floral motif (it appears slightly pink in some of the images but is not).

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Walnut

Curvaceous Sofa by T. H. Robsjohn Gibbings Reupholstered In Your Fabric

$5,850

Curvaceous Sofa by T. H. Robsjohn Gibbings Reupholstered In Your Fabric

By T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, Widdicomb Furniture Co.

Located in Atlanta, GA

Curvaceous Mid Century Sofa or Settee, designed by T. H. Robsjohn Gibbings for Widdicomb, American, circa 1950s.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

'Bracket-Back' Model #133 Mahogany and Leather Sofa by Dunbar, c 1955

$9,900Sale Price|29% Off

'Bracket-Back' Model #133 Mahogany and Leather Sofa by Dunbar, c 1955

By Dunbar Furniture, Roger Sprunger

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Fine details such as the buttoned seat back and buttoned loose cushions, Mahogany bracket back legs and classic tuxedo styling have made this the quintessential 1950s American Mid-Ce...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Classic Cushman Paddle Arm Sofa and Chairs 1940s, 1950s American / Adirondak

$4,900 / set

Classic Cushman Paddle Arm Sofa and Chairs 1940s, 1950s American / Adirondak

By H.T. Cushman Manufacturing Company

Located in Buffalo, NY

Classic Paddle Arm Sofa and Chairs ,made by Cushman Furniture 1940s,50s American / Adirondak.. Solid maple or birch wood,,Cushions recently reupholstered,, Dimensions: lOUNGE cHAIR...

Category

Vintage 1940s American Adirondack Living Room Sets

Materials

Fabric, Hardwood

Paul McCobb Curvaceous Wing Back Settee or Sofa Refinished Reupholstered

$3,800

Paul McCobb Curvaceous Wing Back Settee or Sofa Refinished Reupholstered

By Paul McCobb

Located in Atlanta, GA

Curvaceous Wing back settee or sofa, designed by Paul McCobb for Directional, American, circa 1950s.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Settees

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Recent Sales

1950's Oriental Design Sofa Style of James Mont

Unavailable

H 30 in W 84 in D 34 in

1950's Oriental Design Sofa Style of James Mont

By James Mont

Located in Fulton, CA

Classic oriental design to this 1950s American made sofa. Solid wood frame construction.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

American Modern Upholstered Sec Sofa, Frank LLoyd Wright for Heritage Henredon

Unavailable

H 30.5 in W 129 in D 69 in

American Modern Upholstered Sec Sofa, Frank LLoyd Wright for Heritage Henredon

By Frank Lloyd Wright

Located in Hollywood, FL

American modern upholstered sectional sofa, 1950's, Frank LLoyd Wright for Heritage Henredon.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Upholstery

1950s American Rattan Sofa

Sold

H 33 in W 80.5 in D 34.5 in

1950s American Rattan Sofa

Located in London, GB

Very comfortable 1950s three-seat sectional sofa with curved stacked rattan base and decorative fan arms. Two armchairs in the same set are also available (see our separate entry, LU...

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Rattan

American 1950s Black Frame Sofa

Sold

H 31 in W 52.5 in D 32 in

American 1950s Black Frame Sofa

Located in Buchanan, NY

Very handsome small scaled sofa, Orignial upholstery

Category

Vintage 1950s Sofas

American Designer, Sizeable Sofa, Fabric, Wood, 1950s

Sold

H 28 in W 122 in D 50 in

American Designer, Sizeable Sofa, Fabric, Wood, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A sizeable beige fabric and wood sofa, designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. 14.5" seat height

Category

Vintage 1950s American Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

American Designer, Sofa, Fabric, Aluminium, USA, 1950s

Sold

H 26.75 in W 96 in D 31.5 in

American Designer, Sofa, Fabric, Aluminium, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A green velvet fabric and cast aluminium sofa designed and produced in the US, 1950s. 18.5” seat height

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Aluminum

American Designer, Sofa, Bamboo, Mohair, USA, 1950s

Sold

H 31 in W 88 in D 31 in

American Designer, Sofa, Bamboo, Mohair, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A curved moulded bamboo and beige mohair fabric sofa, designed and produced in the US, 1950s. 17.5”seat height

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Mohair, Bamboo

American Designer, Sofa, Iron, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Sold

H 28.5 in W 100 in D 33 in

American Designer, Sofa, Iron, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A green fabric and black-lacquered iron sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 28.5"H x 100.0"W x 33.0"D Seat Height (inches): 15.25" Arm Hei...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Iron

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Sold

H 27 in W 75.25 in D 29 in

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

An oak and green velvet sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Reupholstered in brand new velvet. Overall Dimensions (inches): 27.0"H x 75.25"W x 29.0"D Seat Height (inch...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Oak

American Designer, Large Sofa, Bamboo, Wood, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Sold

H 35 in W 154 in D 32 in

American Designer, Large Sofa, Bamboo, Wood, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A large bamboo, wood and brown velvet sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Wear consistent with age and use. Cushions reupholstered in brand new velvet. Overall Dimensi...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Bamboo, Wood

Edward Wormley, Rare Curved Sofa, Original Fabric, Dunbar, America, 1950s

Sold

H 32 in W 112 in D 32 in

Edward Wormley, Rare Curved Sofa, Original Fabric, Dunbar, America, 1950s

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in High Point, NC

A rare and large curved sofa. Designed by Edward Wormley. Produced by Dunbar, Berne, Indiana in the 1950s. In it's original fabric, we advise prospective buyers to reupholster this ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Oak

American Black Framed Sofa

Sold

H 31 in W 52.5 in D 32 in

American Black Framed Sofa

Located in Buchanan, NY

American 1950's Black Framed Sofa.

Category

20th Century Sofas

Fully Restored Channelled Sofa by Edward Wormley in Pale Gray or White, 1950s

Sold

H 28 in W 97 in D 38 in

Fully Restored Channelled Sofa by Edward Wormley in Pale Gray or White, 1950s

By Edward Wormley

Located in Austin, TX

Designed by Edward Wormley, renowned midcentury American designer and furniture historian, for Dunbar. This curvaceous sofa has channelled upholstery at continuous arms and generous,...

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Mid-Century American Modern 1950s Slipper Loveseat, Red Sofa

Sold

H 31.5 in W 54 in D 32 in

Mid-Century American Modern 1950s Slipper Loveseat, Red Sofa

Located in San Diego, CA

A very nice and comfy 1950s American modern small sofa loveseat, freshly recover in cotton tweed red fabric , new foam new fabric sitting on four black lacquered tapper legs, simple ...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Loveseats

Materials

Cotton, Wood

1950s American Walnut Sofa with Rattan Panels

Sold

H 31 in W 78.5 in D 31 in

1950s American Walnut Sofa with Rattan Panels

Located in Victoria, BC

A beautiful blend of form and function, this 1950s American walnut sofa is a sculptural standout with its sweeping lines, solid wood frame, and rattan-paneled sides.

Category

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Rattan, Walnut

1950s Solid American Walnut Sofa or Daybed with Attached Table

Sold

H 30 in W 106 in D 29 in

1950s Solid American Walnut Sofa or Daybed with Attached Table

Located in San Diego, CA

Striking solid walnut frame sofa or daybed, with attached side table, removable back cushion converts in daybed, freshly recover in orange/brown fabric and new foam cushions the waln...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Daybeds

Materials

Walnut

1950s American Modern Mid Century Sofa Daybed in Solid Walnut Frame

Sold

H 28 in W 76 in D 30 in

1950s American Modern Mid Century Sofa Daybed in Solid Walnut Frame

By Brown Saltman

Located in San Diego, CA

A very unique solid walnut frame with upholstered red cushions on Knoll fabric. the back cushion its removable and converts into daybed, new fabric and new foam solid and sturdy the ...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Daybeds

Materials

Upholstery, Walnut

1950s Restored Heywood Wakefield Aristocrat Sofa Settee

Sold

H 33 in W 49 in D 31 in

1950s Restored Heywood Wakefield Aristocrat Sofa Settee

By Heywood-Wakefield Co.

Located in Southampton, NJ

Heywood Wakefield 1950s Aristocrat series loveseat sofa. Fully restored and modified to a rich walnut finish revealing marvelous wood grains evident in the Danish modern influenced f...

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Loveseats

Materials

Cotton, Linen, Walnut

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Sold

H 29 in W 74.75 in D 37 in

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A oak and green fabric sofa, designed and produced in the US, 1950s. 14" seat height

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Oak

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Sold

H 30 in W 90.25 in D 33.75 in

American Designer, Sofa, Oak, Velvet, USA, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A beige velvet and oak sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1950s. Reupholstered in brand new velvet. Dents and patina present to wood frame. Overall Dimensions (inches): 30” H...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Oak

1950s Velvet Tufted Curved Sofa

Sold

H 26 in W 87 in D 35 in

1950s Velvet Tufted Curved Sofa

Located in Dallas, TX

1950's tufted back sofa featuring a gently curved classic design. Upholstered in button tufted blue velvet fabric. Down wrapped long seat cushion and walnut legs. Sturdy and in good ...

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Regency Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Foam, Walnut, Down

Vintage American Barley Twist Sofa

Sold

H 32 in W 83.5 in D 32 in

Vintage American Barley Twist Sofa

Located in Chicago, IL

A chic 1950s American sofa with wooden barley twist frame with curved back corners, and newly upholstered in a cozy Italian cream-colored wool bouclé with loose button-tufted back an...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Bouclé, Wood

1950s Mid-Century Modern Sofa after Paul McCobb, Original Fabric

Sold

H 31 in W 32 in D 90 in

1950s Mid-Century Modern Sofa after Paul McCobb, Original Fabric

By Paul McCobb

Located in Miami, FL

1950s Mid-Century Modern sofa after Paul McCobb, original fabric Offered is a sleek Midcentury Modern sofa in the manner of Paul McCobb with the original fabric. The upholstery ha...

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Brass

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Model 4906-A Bouclé and Brass Sofa, Reupholstered

Sold

H 33.5 in W 109 in D 36 in

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Model 4906-A Bouclé and Brass Sofa, Reupholstered

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Fine details such as the tufted seat cushions, conical brass legs and classic tuxedo styling have made this the quintiessential 1950s American Mid-Century Modern sofa for collectors,...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Brass

Rare Vintage Signed Jens Risom Settee in Walnut & Wool, 1950s

Sold

H 27.5 in W 53.5 in D 32 in

Rare Vintage Signed Jens Risom Settee in Walnut & Wool, 1950s

By Jens Risom

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A rare and early two seater sofa or settee by Jens Risom for Risom Manufacturing Corp. in walnut & original nubby wool upholstery with hand-stitching. Completely original vintage con...

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Other

American 1950s Sofa with Black Saber Legs

Sold

H 30.25 in W 86.5 in D 34 in

American 1950s Sofa with Black Saber Legs

By Heywood-Wakefield Co.

Located in New York, NY

Sofa by Heywood-Wakefield, newly recovered in ivory linen, on black painted maple saber legs. Arms are 21" high at the front, all other dimensions below.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Upholstered Sofa by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, American 1950s

Sold

H 28 in W 84 in D 28 in

Upholstered Sofa by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, American 1950s

By Edward Wormley

Located in Hoboken, NJ

Upholstered sofa with tufted seat and back cushions. By Edward Wormley for Dunbar, American 1950s.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Sofas

Shaped Sofa by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, American 1950s

Sold

H 31 in W 106 in D 44 in

Shaped Sofa by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, American 1950s

Located in Hoboken, NJ

Shaped sofa with notched back by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, American 1950s.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Sofas

Rare American Modern Taliesin Collection Sofa, Frank Lloyd Wright, 1950s

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H 30.5 in W 129 in D 69 in

Rare American Modern Taliesin Collection Sofa, Frank Lloyd Wright, 1950s

By Frank Lloyd Wright

Located in Hollywood, FL

American modern upholstered sectional sofa, 1950s, Frank Lloyd Wright for Heritage Henredon.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Osvaldo Borsani Style Sofa Settee Mid¬Century 1950s Italian

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H 37 in W 55 in D 28 in

Osvaldo Borsani Style Sofa Settee Mid¬Century 1950s Italian

Located in Longdon, Tewkesbury

Stunning Mid-Century Italian design sofa 1950s A fabulous original vintage 1950s Italian sofa settee, in blue satin, with electric blue piping, on black ebonized tapering wood legs,...

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian American Classical Sofas

Materials

Satin

Mid-Century Four Seater Sofa in the Manner of Paul McCobb

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H 29.5 in W 101 in D 32 in

Mid-Century Four Seater Sofa in the Manner of Paul McCobb

By Paul McCobb

Located in Pasadena, CA

1950's American four seat sofa with classic leaf print upholstery and shaped walnut detail legs.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Walnut, Upholstery

Vivid Ruby Red 1950s Button Tufted Dunbar Style Sofa

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H 32 in W 86.5 in D 35 in

Vivid Ruby Red 1950s Button Tufted Dunbar Style Sofa

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A vivid ruby colored "burnout" style velvet sofa with striking turquoise piping and sexy brass stiletto legs. Freshly re-upholstered with turquoise button tufted back and seat cushio...

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Late 1950s Striking Visual Couch with Jack Lenor Larsen Fabric

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H 21 in W 86.25 in D 32 in

Late 1950s Striking Visual Couch with Jack Lenor Larsen Fabric

By Fabio Lenci

Located in New Rochelle, NY

You are viewing a one of a kind couch in the manner of Fabio Lenci, but much nicer! We know the Lenci quality which is great, but we can speak from a visual standpoint that this exce...

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Metal

Finnish Designer, Sofa, Birch, Fabric, Metal, Finland, 1930s

$9,800

H 32.5 in W 71.5 in D 35 in

Finnish Designer, Sofa, Birch, Fabric, Metal, Finland, 1930s

Located in High Point, NC

A birch, off-white fabric and metal sofa designed in Finland, 1930s. Seat Height (inches): 16” Arm Height (inches): 23.56" All items ship from High Point, North Carolina.

Category

Vintage 1930s Finnish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Metal

Swedish Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Sweden, 1940s

$8,600

H 32 in W 72 in D 34 in

Swedish Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Sweden, 1940s

Located in High Point, NC

A wood and green velvet sofa designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1940s. In good vintage condition, with visible wear consistent with age and use. Light surface scratches to the wood...

Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Sofas

Materials

Wood, Velvet

Swedish Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Sweden, 1930s

$7,800

H 32.5 in W 68.75 in D 34 in

Swedish Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Sweden, 1930s

Located in High Point, NC

A yellow velvet and wood sofa designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1930s. Vintage fabric in distressed condition and ideally replaced. Seat Height (inches): 16.25" Arm Height (inch...

Category

Vintage 1930s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Wood

Danish Designer, Sofa, Fabric, Wood, Denmark, 1950s

$5,600

H 29 in W 62 in D 36 in

Danish Designer, Sofa, Fabric, Wood, Denmark, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

An off-white fabric and wood sofa or loveseat designed and produced in Denmark, c. 1950s. Vintage fabric ideally replaced, several minor stains. Wear consistent with age and use. ...

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Cushman Furniture, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, USA, 1940s

$9,600

H 33.5 in W 81 in D 31.5 in

Cushman Furniture, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, USA, 1940s

Located in High Point, NC

A wood and white fabric sofa produced by Cushman Furniture, USA, c. 1940s. Reupholstered in brand new fabric. Seat Height (inches): 16.5" Arm Height (inches): 22" All items ship ...

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Danish Designer, Sofa, Teak, Fabric, Denmark, 1950s

$14,800

H 32.75 in W 83 in D 29 in

Danish Designer, Sofa, Teak, Fabric, Denmark, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A green fabric and teak sofa designed and produced in Denmark, c. 1950s. Seat height 15". Original fabric ideally replaced. All items ship from High Point, North Carolina.

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Teak

Italian Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Italy, 1950s

$11,500

H 28 in W 71.25 in D 36.5 in

Italian Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Italy, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A yellow velvet and wood sofa designed and produced in Italy, c. 1950s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 28.0"H x 71.25"W x 36.5"D Seat Height (inches): 13.25" All items ship from Hig...

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Wood

French Designer, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, France, 1930s

$24,000

H 25 in W 93 in D 36 in

French Designer, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, France, 1930s

Located in High Point, NC

A wood and white fabric sofa designed and produced in France, c. 1930s. In good vintage condition, with visible wear consistent with age and use. Light surface scratches to the wood...

Category

Vintage 1930s French Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Swedish Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Sweden, 1940s

$7,800

H 31.5 in W 76 in D 34 in

Swedish Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Sweden, 1940s

Located in High Point, NC

A green velvet and dark-stained wood sofa designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1940s. Wear consistent with age and use. Vintage fabric in fair condition with traces of age and use, ...

Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Wood

German Designer, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, Germany, 1960s

$8,800

H 27.75 in W 79 in D 34 in

German Designer, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, Germany, 1960s

Located in High Point, NC

A wood and beige fabric sofa with bed designed and produced in Germany, c. 1960s. In good vintage condition, with visible wear consistent with age and use. Age-appropriate patina re...

Category

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Mid-Century Modern French Sofa in Solid Elm

$5,950

H 30.71 in W 75.6 in D 32.68 in

Mid-Century Modern French Sofa in Solid Elm

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Sofa, fabric, elm, France, 1960s This sofa from the 1960s present a bold and sculptural shape, combining geometric clarity with a sense of comfort and solidity. The overall form is ...

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Elm

Italian Designer, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, Italy, 1950s

$5,800

H 30.25 in W 49.5 in D 29.5 in

Italian Designer, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, Italy, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A wood and floral fabric sofa or settee designed and produced in Italy, c. 1950s. Moderate wear to wood consistent with age and use. Vintage fabric in distressed condition ideally ...

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Danish Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Denmark, 1940s

$8,600

H 27 in W 65 in D 36 in

Danish Designer, Sofa, Velvet, Wood, Denmark, 1940s

Located in High Point, NC

A blue velvet and wood sofa designed and produced in Denmark, c. 1940s. Staining to fabric, ideally reupholstered. Wear consistent with age and use. Overall Dimensions (inches): 27...

Category

Vintage 1940s Danish Scandinavian Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Wood

Danish Designer, Sofa, Fabric, Wood, Denmark, 1940s

$6,800

H 27 in W 62 in D 37.5 in

Danish Designer, Sofa, Fabric, Wood, Denmark, 1940s

Located in High Point, NC

A yellow floral-printed fabric and wood sofa designed and produced in Denmark, c. 1940s. Wear to wood legs consistent with age and use Vintage fabric in fair condition, ideally rep...

Category

Vintage 1940s Danish Scandinavian Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Danish Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, Denmark, 1960s

$8,400

H 32.5 in W 67.75 in D 30.5 in

Danish Designer, Sofa, Oak, Fabric, Denmark, 1960s

Located in High Point, NC

An oak and white fabric sofa designed and produced in Denmark, c. 1960s. Reupholstered in brand new fabric. Overall Dimensions: 32.5“ H x 67.75“ W x 30.5“ D Seat Height (inches): ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Oak

American Designer, Organic Sofa, Velvet, Mahogany, USA, 1960s

$9,800

H 28 in W 124 in D 35 in

American Designer, Organic Sofa, Velvet, Mahogany, USA, 1960s

Located in High Point, NC

An organic velvet and mahogany sofa designed and produced in the US, c. 1960s. Reupholstered at some point in history, fabric in distressed condition and ideally replaced. Seat hei...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Mahogany

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Jean Besnard, French Art Deco, Ceramic, Table Lamp, France, 1960s

$2,150

H 6.25 in W 5 in D 5 in

Jean Besnard, French Art Deco, Ceramic, Table Lamp, France, 1960s

By Jean Besnard

Located in Stamford, CT

Jean Besnard, French Art Deco, Brown Ceramic, Table Lamp, France, 1960s A small brown and white ceramic partially glazed table lamp designed and produced by Jean Besnard in France i...

Category

Vintage 1960s French Art Deco Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

Custom Made Modern English Arm Sofa in Performance Linen Velvet - 86"

$4,900 / item

H 34 in W 86 in D 42 in

Custom Made Modern English Arm Sofa in Performance Linen Velvet - 86"

By Bloom Home Inc

Located in Old Town Orange, CA

This beautiful english arm sofa has a modern twist, with its single bench cushion, and beautiful curved apron sides. It’s upholstered in a Linen Velvet Performance fabric. Shown in...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Sofas

Materials

Linen, Velvet

Pair of Art Deco Style Murano Glass Demi Lune Wall Sconces, in Stock

$2,800 / set

H 14.75 in W 8.5 in D 4 in

Pair of Art Deco Style Murano Glass Demi Lune Wall Sconces, in Stock

Located in Miami, FL

Pair of Art Deco style Murano glass demi lune wall sconces, in stock One LED E26 base socket. Black glass sphere and brass fittings. Textured Murano glass, Wired to the American sta...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass

Italian Art Deco Bar Cabinet in Parchment with Inlays Signed by Anzani, 1930s

$171,228

H 45.28 in W 56.3 in D 17.33 in

Italian Art Deco Bar Cabinet in Parchment with Inlays Signed by Anzani, 1930s

By Giuseppe Anzani

Located in Meda, MB

This bar cabinet was produced in Italy, in the late 1930s and is a really unique and special piece. Its tremendous historical and artistic value is what makes this item a real piece...

Category

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Mirror, Wood, Maple, Walnut, Parchment Paper

Large Mid-Century Modern Harvey Probber Two-Piece Sectional Sofa, Labeled

$7,500

H 28.5 in W 143 in D 87 in

Large Mid-Century Modern Harvey Probber Two-Piece Sectional Sofa, Labeled

By Harvey Probber

Located in St. Louis, MO

Large Mid-Century Modern 1950s Harvey Probber two-piece sectional sofa with mahogany tapered legs. Sofa has original fabric, it needs to be reupholstered and foam replaced. There is ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Mahogany

Ceiba Table Lamp

$1,620 / item

H 17.72 in Dm 7.88 in

Ceiba Table Lamp

By Chuch Estudio

Located in Mérida, MX

The Ceiba Lamp embodies the essence of artisanal craftsmanship, meticulously crafted entirely by hand. Inspired by the sacred Tree of Life in the Yucatan Peninsula, renowned as the C...

Category

2010s Mexican Aesthetic Movement Table Lamps

Materials

Clay, Linen

Adrian Pearsall Cloud Sofa in Excellent Original Condition, ca. 1960’s

$16,000Sale Price|20% Off

H 22 in W 128 in D 36 in

Adrian Pearsall Cloud Sofa in Excellent Original Condition, ca. 1960’s

By Adrian Pearsall

Located in New York, NY

Exceptional example of the work of Adrian Pearsall, this sofa is in excellent original condition showing only light cosmetic wear normal and consistent with age. Rarely seen Cloud so...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Walnut

Pair of wall lights by Pietro Chiesa produced by Fontana Arte, Italy 1940s

$12,556 / set

H 13.59 in W 12.21 in D 3.94 in

Pair of wall lights by Pietro Chiesa produced by Fontana Arte, Italy 1940s

By Pietro Chiesa, Fontana Arte

Located in Piacenza, Italy

Rare pair of brass and etched glass wall lights by Pietro Chiesa and produced by Fontana Arte, circa 1940. Each fixture is composed of a curved satin-finished crystal diffuser held ...

Category

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Materials

Brass

Wall Sconces by Clément Nauny & Maison Desny Paris

$6,800Sale Price / set|20% Off

H 9.85 in W 9.85 in D 4.73 in

Wall Sconces by Clément Nauny & Maison Desny Paris

By Clement Nauny, La Maison Desny

Located in Ciudad Autónoma Buenos Aires, C

Pair of silver-plated bronze wall lamps. Attributed to Maison Desny Paris (1927-1933). By Clement Nauny (1900-1968). France, Circa 1930.

Category

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Silver, Bronze

Vladimir Kagan, Large Curved Sofa, Fabric, Metal, USA, 1950s

$49,000

H 25.5 in W 115 in D 65 in

Vladimir Kagan, Large Curved Sofa, Fabric, Metal, USA, 1950s

By Kagan-Dreyfuss, Inc., Vladimir Kagan

Located in High Point, NC

A large curved beige yellow bouclé fabric and metal sofa designed by Vladimir Kagan and produced by Kagan-Dreyfuss Inc. Seat height: 15.5” Reupholstered in brand new bouclé fabric.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Metal

French Iron Lantern Pendant with Textured Glass, 1950s

$3,200

H 20.5 in W 12.5 in D 12.5 in

French Iron Lantern Pendant with Textured Glass, 1950s

Located in Chicago, IL

A French iron and glass lantern pendant from the 1950s. Suspended from a darkened metal chain, the fixture is formed from a tapered iron frame that encloses softly diffused glass pan...

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

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Guillerme and Chambron, Rare Early Period Sideboard for Votre Maison", 1955.

$18,835

H 41.74 in W 91.74 in D 18.51 in

Guillerme and Chambron, Rare Early Period Sideboard for Votre Maison", 1955.

By Robert Guillerme, Guillerme et Chambron, Votre Maison

Located in Paris, FR

Guillerme et Chambron, Rare Sideboard in Oak from the early period of French company "Votre Maison". France, Circa 1955. Here is an oak Credenza designed by French creator duo Rober...

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Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

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Brass, Iron

Rare Paolo Buffa Sideboard in Cherry

$76,000

H 37.8 in W 98.43 in D 19.69 in

Rare Paolo Buffa Sideboard in Cherry

By Paolo Buffa

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Paolo Buffa, sideboard, cherry, brass, Italy, 1940s Crafted by the visionary Italian designer and architect Paolo Buffa (1903-1970), this rare piece exudes a refined decorative allu...

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Swedish Grace Ceiling Light by Lars Holmström, Sweden, 1930s

$29,679

H 7.88 in Dm 22.84 in

Swedish Grace Ceiling Light by Lars Holmström, Sweden, 1930s

Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län

Beautiful Swedish Grace ceiling light in a large size. Made from bronze with a large, wide frosted glass shade. Elaborate, sculptural decor of a man, woman and a deer in stylized fol...

Category

Vintage 1930s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass, Pewter

Süe & Mare rosewood and amboyna burl desk 1921

$86,961

H 29.53 in W 43.31 in D 28.75 in

Süe & Mare rosewood and amboyna burl desk 1921

By Sue et Mare

Located in Paris, IDF

This walnut, rosewood, and amboyna burl veneer desk dates from the early 1920s and was created by Louis Süe and André Mare. It takes us straight to the height of the Art Deco period....

Category

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Italian Sofa in the Style of Gio Ponti, 1950s

$7,500

H 30 in W 64 in D 28 in

Italian Sofa in the Style of Gio Ponti, 1950s

By Gio Ponti

Located in Miami, FL

Fantastic Italian sofa from the 1950s. Very much in the style of Gio Ponti.

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

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American 1950s Sofa For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal American 1950s sofa for your home. An American 1950s sofa — often made from wood, fabric and metal — can elevate any home. Your living room may not be complete without an American 1950s sofa — find older editions for sale from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 20th Century. An American 1950s sofa, designed in the Mid-Century Modern, Hollywood Regency or Neoclassical style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. A well-made American 1950s sofa has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Edward Wormley, Dunbar and Heywood-Wakefield Co. are consistently popular.

How Much is an American 1950s Sofa?

The average selling price for an American 1950s sofa at 1stDibs is $5,500, while they’re typically $1,250 on the low end and $260,000 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

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 celebrated 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.

Generations turn over, and mid-century modern remains arguably the most popular style going. 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.

Finding the Right Sofas for You

Vintage couches and antique sofas have anchored living rooms for generations. The pieces most sought after today carry the deep-buttoned tufting of a Chesterfield or the low, sculptural ease of mid-century modern and Hollywood Regency design.

Styles to Know

Rolled arms and tufted backs point to Mid-Century Modern or Hollywood Regency pieces, while tight backs and turned legs skew more traditional. Velvet is enjoying a renewed moment across most of these silhouettes; see our velvet chesterfield sofa trend report for examples. A mid-century modern coffee table within reach and a vintage mirror nearby round out the seating area.

How to Choose the Right Vintage Sofa

A sofa's frame and upholstery history can be difficult to judge from photographs alone. Ask a seller for more information when a listing doesn't show the fabric or joinery clearly, and confirm whether the upholstery is original or has been redone. Each piece comes from a vetted 1stDibs seller, with era, designer and condition detailed, and the 1stDibs Promise stands behind every purchase.

Questions About American 1950s Sofa

Is sofa American or British?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
Sofa is both American and British. In the UK, sofa is the most commonly used term for an upholstered piece of furniture designed to seat two people or more. Americans use the word sofa as well. However, couch is the more popular name for sofas in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
What do Americans call a sofa?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
What Americans call a sofa varies. Often, people living in the U.S. refer to an upholstered furnishing designed to hold more than one person as a couch. However, the word sofa is also commonly used in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
What is 1950s furniture called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
1950s furniture is called vintage furniture. Some pieces produced during this period may be considered mid-century modern based on their characteristics. Mid-century modern design refers to the variety of modernism that rose to prominence in the 1940s and ’50s. It displays many of the characteristics of the earlier versions of modernism, including simple forms and a focus on functionality. Other traits common in mid-century modern furniture include unadorned silhouettes, clean lines and mixed materials, emphasizing wood, wool, steel and plastic. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of 1950s furniture.
Were pearls popular in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes. While the gem has always been a mainstay in jewelry, there was a boom in demand for pearl pieces in the 1950s. The style at the time was black-and-white-chic, and pearls were an excellent accompaniment to pieces like the classic little black dress. Shop a collection of expertly vetted pearl jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What watches were popular in 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023
Some popular watches for men during the 1950s were the Rolex Submariner, the Enicar Sherpa Dive, the Breitling Navitimer, Omega, Constellation and the Rolex GMT-Master. Rolex, Timex, Orvin, Tower and Elgin were among the top watchmakers for women during the decade. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary watches.
What was the clothing style in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
The clothing style in the 1950s was well tailored and classic. For women, dresses with padded busts, cinched waists and hips, and full circle skirts were popular, and the collared button-up shirt dress came into fashion during the decade. Men tended to wear suits in neutral gray, dark blue and brown colors made out of easy-to-care-for synthetic fabrics. Straight-cut double-breasted blazers were commonly worn for casual occasions. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of vintage clothing from the 1950s.
What diamond cuts were popular in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023
In the 1950s, several diamond cuts were popular. They included the brilliant round cut, the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. Rings that featured a large central stone flanked by smaller baguettes were also trendy during the decade. Find a collection of vintage diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
How much was a Chanel bag in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
In the 1950s, a Chanel bag was priced between $200 and $300. The iconic Chanel 2.55 bag cost $220 when first introduced in February 1955. Accounting for inflation, that works out to around $2,536 in today's money. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Chanel bags from some of the world's top boutiques.
What were the popular diamond cuts in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
There were a few popular diamond cuts in the 1950s. One was the brilliant round cut, which is still common today due to its simple shape and prominent sparkle. Other favorite cuts of the decade included the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of engagement rings.
What is the 1950s furniture style called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
The best-known 1950s furniture style is called mid-century modern. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three phrases that describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style emerged primarily in the years following World War II through creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Mid-century modern designers combined natural and human-made materials, such as teak, rosewood and oak woods as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. Some well-known mid-century modern designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of mid-century modern furniture.
Which designer was called the Mother of American Fashion in the 1940s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
Claire McCardell was the designer often called the Mother of American Fashion in the 1940s. An American designer, she helped introduce women's sportswear to the United States and was particularly well-known for her bias-cut, loose-fitting Monastic dress. When World War II broke out in the 1940s, she designed pieces out of readily available materials like denim, calico and wool jersey, introducing new fabrics for women's clothing that would remain popular well after the close of the war. Many people point to McCardell as one of the first successful American fashion designers. Shop a collection of Claire McCardell apparel on 1stDibs.
Which artist became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 27, 2025
Frank Stella is the artist who became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s. These works featured bands of black paint separated by thin, precise stripes of bare canvas. At a time when contemporary painting was all about wild gestures, thick paint and formal abandon, the “Black Paintings” created a sensation. Explore a range of Frank Stella art on 1stDibs.

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