Mid Century Modern Desks
177
29,839
711
400
to
2,662
17,349
12,808
30,828
30,299
30,385
27,517
1,517
403
261
65
45
19
15
12
11
9
9
5
4
4
3
1
1
59
164
29,610
1,112
143
21,870
5,705
7
2
53
200
629
6,027
7,720
4,087
696
161
15,893
15,594
4,959
4,938
3,728
19,309
8,982
8,454
6,365
5,750
863
685
635
423
362
Sort By
Mid-Century Modern Desk
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Perfect for any home office or study, this beautiful Mid-Century Modern desk shows off a rich
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Desk, Wood, Italy, 1960s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern desk, wood, Italy, 1960s.
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Desks
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Desk Lamp
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk Lamp
Category
20th Century Table Lamps
Materials
Leather
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Bergwood, Circa 1975
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern desk by Bergwood - circa 1975.
Category
Vintage 1970s European Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Arne Vodder, 1960s
By Arne Vodder
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Arne Vodder, 1960s
Category
Vintage 1960s Desks
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Sergio Rodrigues, Brazil, 1960s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Sergio Rodrigues, Brazil, 1960s
Category
Vintage 1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Desk/ Table by Borsani, Italy, 1950s
By Osvaldo Borsani
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk/ Table by Borsani, Italy, 1950s
Category
Vintage 1950s Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Studio BBPR for Olivetti
By Studio BBPR
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Studio BBPR for Olivetti
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Plastic
Mid-Century Modern Desk Lamp, 1950s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk Lamp, 1950s.
Category
Vintage 1950s Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Desk with Drawers, Pine Wood, Italy, 1960s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk with Drawers, Pine Wood, Italy, 1960s
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Desk Lamp, Italy, 1960s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk Lamp, Italy, 1960s
Category
Vintage 1960s Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Desk Mirror, Italy, 1970s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern desk mirror, Italy, 1970s.
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Table Mirrors
Materials
Bronze
Mid-Century Modern Desk with Sliding Top by Raymond Loewy, 1960s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern desk with sliding top by Raymond Loewy, 1960s.
Category
Vintage 1960s European Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Plastic, Wood
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Afra and Tobia Scarpa, Stildomus 1970s
By Afra & Tobia Scarpa
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Afra and Tobia Scarpa, Stildomus 1970s
Category
Vintage 1970s Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Two Dutch Mid-Century Modern Desk Chairs by Wim Rietveld
By Wim Rietveld
Located in New York, NY
Two Dutch Mid-Century Modern desk or side chairs in enameled steel and wood by the architect son of
Category
Vintage 1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Office Chairs and Desk Chairs
Orange Mid Century Modern Desk Lamp
Located in Los Angeles, CA
French 1960s orange metal mid-century modern desk lamp. With its bold hue and sleek design, the
Category
20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Ico Parisi for Mim Roma, Italy, 1950s
By Ico Parisi
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Ico Parisi for Mim Roma, Italy, 1950s
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Revolving Folding Mid-Century Modern Desk Writing Table Cabinet Hide Away MINT
By Herman Miller, George Nelson, Milo Baughman
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Revolving Folding Mid-Century Modern Desk Writing Table Cabinet Hide Away MINT.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Birch
H 29 in W 36 in D 22 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Poul Nørreklit For Georg Petersens Møbelfabrik, Wood
By Georg Petersens Møbelfabrik, Poul Nørreklit
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern desk by Poul Nørreklit For Georg Petersens Møbelfabrik, Wood and Plexiglass
Category
Vintage 1970s European Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Plexiglass, Wood
H 29.14 in W 66.93 in D 31.3 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk/Table by Gae Aulenti for Zanotta, Italy, 1970s
By Gae Aulenti
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk/Table by Gae Aulenti for Zanotta,Italy, 1970s
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Glass
H 27.96 in W 59.06 in D 29.53 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk Table by Gianfranco Frattini for Bernini, Italy, 1960s
By Gianfranco Frattini
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk Table by Gianfranco Frattini for Bernini, Italy, 1960s
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
H 31.11 in W 39.38 in D 25.6 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk Table by Gianfranco Frattini for Bernini, Italy, 1960s
By Gianfranco Frattini
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk Table by Gianfranco Frattini for Bernini, Italy, 1960s.
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
H 31.11 in W 39.38 in D 25.6 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Derk Jan De Vries, Domus, Italy, 1960s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern desk by Derk Jan De Vries, Domus, Italy, 1960s.
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Desk Table by Hekman Furniture Parson Design
Located in Seattle, WA
Vintage Mid-Century Modern desk table by Hekman Furniture Parson Design. 3 Drawer finished back
Category
Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Wood
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Desk with Chrome Trim and Legs
Located in Pasadena, TX
, wooden vanity panel, chrome trim and legs. This stylish Mid-Century Modern desk would make a fine
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Tosi, Glass Wood Leather and Bronze, Italy, 1968
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern desk by Tosi, glass wood leather and bronze, Italy, 1968.
Category
Vintage 1960s Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather, Glass, Wood
H 28.35 in W 84.65 in D 35.04 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk / Writing Table, Paul McCobb, Walnut, American, 1950s
By Paul McCobb
Located in Stamford, CT
Mid-Century Modern Desk / Writing Table, Paul McCobb, Walnut, American, 1950s
Having a Large
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Laminate, Walnut
H 29 in W 50 in D 28 in
Refined Mid Century Modern Desk
Located in Westwood, NJ
The desk is elegant in scale with precise details that bring the piece together. Brushed gold
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Asian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing...
Materials
Metal
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Desk
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Newly refinished vintage American desk with unique features that are sure to impress! Featuring
Category
Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wood, Oak, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Desk Ennio Fazioli & Ufficio Tecnico for Mim, Italy
By Ennio Fazioli, MIM Roma
Located in Antwerpen, Antwerp
Mid-Century Modern desk by Desk Ennio Fazioli & Ufficio Tecnico for MIM, Italy 1960s. This desk is
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Modern Desks
Materials
Metal
H 29.93 in W 83.47 in D 40.16 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk Sideboard Bureau Secretaire Belgium Design, 1960s
By Jos De Mey
Located in Antwerp, BE
Vintage Mid-Century Modern desk sideboard, bureau secretaire.The honey-colored sideboard desk has
Category
Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Brass
H 51.97 in W 49.22 in D 16.93 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk or Reading Wall Light Movable Chrome Arm and Black Shade
By BAG Turgi
Located in Weiningen, CH
Mid-Century Modern desk or reading wall light movable chrome arm and movable black shade.
Category
Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Metal, Chrome
H 19.69 in W 9.06 in D 29.53 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll international, 1970s
By Florence Knoll
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Florence Knoll for Knoll international
Biography :
Born to a baker
Category
Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Marble
H 28.94 in W 75.99 in D 36.23 in
Italian Mid-Century Modern Desk, Style of Gio Ponti, c 1950s, Refinished
By Gio Ponti
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Beautifully refinished Mid-Century Modern desk produced in Italy circa 1950s. Featuring black steel
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Brass
Mid Century Modern Desk Chair in Ebonized Walnut & Copper Sharkskin
Located in New York, NY
This elegant mid century modern desk chair was realized in the United States, circa 1950. It
Category
Vintage 1950s Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Upholstery, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Desk from the 1960s
Located in Paris, FR
This is a Mid-Century Modern secretary desk in teak veneer from the 1960s. In the lower part, two
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Glass, Teak
Mid-Century Modern Desk Chair in Ebonized Walnut and Copper Sharkskin
Located in New York, NY
This elegant Mid-Century Modern desk chair was realized in the United States, circa 1950. It
Category
Vintage 1950s Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Upholstery, Walnut
Customized Mid-Century Modern Desk by Jens Risom
By Jens Risom
Located in Miami, FL
Mid-Century Modern L-shaped designed desk by Danish-American furniture designer Jens Risom. Teak
Category
Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Resin, Lacquer, Teak
Rosewood Mid Century Modern Desk with Bookcase Front
Located in Milford, NH
A fine Mid Century Modern free floating desk in rosewood, probably Danish in origin, with a center
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Rosewood
Mid- century Modern Desk Lamp
Located in Beirut, LB
Minimalist design from the 1950's that was considered far ahead of its time. Made from metal, mounted on a high rod which allows the user to adjust the height of the light.
Head is a...
Category
Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Desk Lamp
By Art Decor
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A very unique desk lamp in the smooth finish of hi-polished Nickel. Solid steel frame and with an
Category
1990s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Sergio Rodrigues, Brazil, 1960s
By Sergio Rodrigues
Located in New York, NY
than spectacular. A desk like this will honestly look great in any mid-century modern, rustic or
Category
Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Hardwood
1970’s Mid-Century Modern Desk by Schreiber Furniture
By Schreiber
Located in London, GB
depth 59cm x height 74cm x knee hole width 52cm
Condition:
Very good mid century condition. Minor
Category
Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Formica, Teak
Sonneman Mid-Century Modern Desk Lamp
By Robert Sonneman
Located in New York, NY
Robert Sonneman Mid-Century Modern articulated desktop table lamp with white enamled spherical
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Lanterns
Materials
Metal
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Desk by Merton Gershun
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Los Angeles, CA
With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage designs that can seamlessly be incorpo...
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Brass
Jack Cartwright for Founders Mid Century Modern Desk in Walnut
By Jack Cartwright, Founders Furniture Company
Located in Boynton Beach, FL
panel so it can easily be used as a floating desk.
Elegant simple mid century lines with touches of
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Leather, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Desk in the Style of Milo Baughman
By Milo Baughman
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This gorgeous vintage modern desk is designed in the style of Milo Baughman. This stylish and
Category
Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Modern Desk by Rusell Wright for Conant Ball
Located in Los Angeles, CA
With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage designs that can seamlessly be incorpo...
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Maple
Exquisite mid-century modern desk by Arne Wahl Iversen, 1970´s
By Arne Wahl Iversen
Located in Copenhagen, DK
A desk in rosewood veneer designed by Arne W. Iversen and edited by Vinde Mobelfabrik in the
Category
Vintage 1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Rosewood
Italian Mid-Century Modern Desk with Shelves, Style of Ico Parisi
By Ico Parisi
Located in Austin, TX
Mid-Century Modern glass top desk with rosewood veneered cabinetry in the iconic Italian styling of
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Steel
Mid-Century Modern Desk Designed by Cees Braakman for USM Pastoe
By Cees Braakman
Located in Doornspijk, NL
Very elegant desk made by USM Pastoe.
This desk was designed in the early fifties by Cees Braakman
Category
Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Oak
Mid-Century Modern Desk Designed by Cees Braakman for USM Pastoe
By Pastoe, Cees Braakman
Located in Doornspijk, NL
Beautifully designed desk by Cees Braakman for Pastoe with high levels of practicality and comfort
Category
Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Oak
Mid-Century Modern Desk and Chair by Russell Wright for Conant Ball
By Conant Ball, Russel Wright
Located in Buffalo, NY
for Conant Ball Furniture Makers Mid-Century Modern solid birch desk and chair from the Modernmates
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Cane, Birch
John Vesey Mid-Century Modern Desk or Bureau plat, Steel and Bronze
By John Vesey
Located in Stamford, CT
Mid-Century Modern bronze and steel writing desk, or bureau plat designed by John Vesey (American
Category
Late 20th Century Louis XVI Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Bronze, Stainless Steel
Mid-Century Modern Desk Lamp Cream and Brass
Located in London, GB
Modernist desk lamp in brass and black with cream metal shade is fully adjustable at two points, at
Category
Vintage 1950s Czech Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal, Brass
Midcentury Modern Desk in Hardwood & White Top by Jorge Zalszupin, 1970
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in New York, NY
desks will add a touch of mid-century modern swagger to any home!
In regards the designer, Jorge
Category
Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Formica, Hardwood
H 32.3 in W 73.6 in D 25.2 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk EB02 Designed by Cees Braakman for USM Pastoe
By Pastoe, Cees Braakman
Located in Doornspijk, NL
Elegant writing desk designed in 1952 by Cees Braakman for USM Pastoe.
The desk is made of plywood
Category
Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Birch, Plywood
H 29.34 in W 49.61 in D 24.22 in
Mid Century Modern Desk Clock with Massive Glass Frame, West Germany 1970s
By Wiesenthalhütte
Located in Beograd, RS
In this listing you will find a gorgeous and extremally rare Mid Century Modern table clock, placed
Category
Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Desk with Armchair by Geraldo de Barros for Unilabor, Brazil
By Geraldo de Barros
Located in New York, NY
Available today, this Brazilian Modern desk with Chair designed by Geraldo de Barros for Unilabor
Category
Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal
H 29.1 in W 43 in D 20.5 in
Mid-Century Modern Desk & Chair in Hardwood & Iron by Geraldo de Barros, Brazil
By Geraldo de Barros
Located in New York, NY
This Brazilian Modern desk and chair set by Geraldo de Barros for Unilabor is nothing less than
Category
Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal
H 29 in W 43.3 in D 21 in
- 1
- ...
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Mid Century Modern Desks", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.
Mid Century Modern Desks For Sale on 1stDibs
An assortment of mid century modern desks is available at 1stDibs. The range of distinct mid century modern desks — often made from metal, wood and brass — can elevate any home. There are 11375 antique and vintage mid century modern desks for sale at 1stDibs, while we also have 143 modern editions to choose from as well. Mid century modern desks have been made for many years, and versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century. There are many kinds of mid century modern desks to choose from, but at 1stDibs, Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern and Modern mid century modern desks are of considerable interest. Mid century modern desks have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers, but those produced by Herman Miller, Knoll and Charles and Ray Eames are consistently popular.
How Much are Mid Century Modern Desks?
The average selling price for at 1stDibs is $2,400, while they’re typically $1 on the low end and $140,000 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 Desks
- 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.
- 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.
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
Gooseneck Table Lamps
Paul Mccobb Writing Desk
Drawer Cabinet Wheels
Bureau Plat Black
Desk Lamp Marble Base
Carved Mirror Black And Gold
Black Deco Writing Table
Black Plat Desk
Vintage Industrial Metal Drawers 20th Century
Tropical Upholstery
Federal Style Cabinet
Desk Lamp Vintage Midcentury Italian
Burl Framed Art
Solid Wood Book Case
Swivel High Back Office Chairs
Robert Sonneman Metal Lamp
Mid Century Danish Desk Lamp
Wood Tree Table With Glass