What is mid century furniture?

Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

What is mid century modern furniture?

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.

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

What defines mid-century modern furniture?

Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.

Why is mid-century modern furniture so popular?

Mid-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.

What year is mid-century modern furniture?

There 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.

Who were the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers?

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.

Mid Century Directional Furniture

Vladimir Kagan Nautilus Chairs

Vladimir Kagan Cloud Sofa

Serpentine Couch

Mid Century Modern Sectional

Deep Sectional

Milo Baughman For Directional

Swivel Lounge Chair

Paul Mccobb Arm Chairs

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Upholstery, Wood

Reupholstered Mid-Century Swivel Chairs by Directional Furniture

H 28 in W 30 in D 32 in

Signed Directional Furniture Mid Century Modern 3PC Curved Sectional Sofa

By Directional

Located in West Hartford, CT

Stunning curved iconic mid century masterpiece from Directional Furniture circa 1970s. Still in

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Textile, Wood

Signed Directional Furniture Mid Century Modern 3PC Curved Sectional Sofa

H 26 in W 108 in D 81 in

Directional Mid-Century Sectional Sofa

By Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Directional Mid-Century sectional sofa This sectional sofa measures: 143 wide x 111 deep x 28

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Directional Mid-Century Sectional Sofa

H 28 in W 143 in D 111 in

Directional Mid Century Sectional Sofa

By Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Directional midcentury sectional sofa. This sofa measures: 125 wide x 90 deep x 31 inches high

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Directional Mid Century Sectional Sofa

H 31 in W 125 in D 90 in

Mid-Century Lounge Chair by Directional

By Directional

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Funky bubble chair made by Directional. Tufted orange Naugahyde cushions on polished tubular frame

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Mid-Century Lounge Chair by Directional

H 33.75 in W 30.25 in D 37 in

Small Mid-Century Cabinet by Directional

By Directional

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This stylish end table cabinet features a truly innovative design, combining a vintage tortoise finish with brass trim and several unique storage options. Standard cabinet storage me...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Lacquer

Small Mid-Century Cabinet by Directional

H 19 in W 32 in D 18 in

Directional Mid Century 10 Drawer Lowboy

By Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Directional Mid Century 10 drawer lowboy This lowboy measures: 72 wide x 18 deep x 33.25 inches

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Materials

Chrome

Directional Mid Century 10 Drawer Lowboy

H 33.25 in W 72 in D 18 in

Directional Mid Century 6 Drawer Highboy

By Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Directional mid century 6 drawer highboy This dresser measures: 36 wide x 18 deep x 49.75 inches

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Materials

Chrome

Directional Mid Century 6 Drawer Highboy

H 49.75 in W 36 in D 18 in

Curved Serpentine Sofa by Directional Furniture

By Directional

Located in Culver City, CA

of contemporary, post modern, or Mid-Century Modern environment-- its subtle lines also lend itself

Category

1990s Post-Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Curved Serpentine Sofa by Directional Furniture

H 31 in W 156 in D 87 in

Kagan for Directional Mid Century Kidney Sofa

By Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Vladimir Kagan for Directional midcentury kidney sofa. This sofa measures: 86 wide x 35 deep x

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Kagan for Directional Mid Century Kidney Sofa

H 28 in W 86 in D 35 in

Directional Mid Century Lounge Chair with Casters

By Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Directional mid century lounge chair with casters. These chairs measure: 26 wide x 34 deep x 29

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Metal

Directional Mid Century Lounge Chair with Casters

H 29 in W 26 in D 34 in

Directional Mid Century Walnut and Chrome Nightstand

By Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Directional Mid Century Walnut and chrome nightstand This nightstand measures: 24 wide x 18 deep

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Night Stands

Materials

Chrome

Directional Mid Century Walnut and Chrome Nightstand

H 21 in W 24 in D 18 in

Serpentine Style Sofa with Chrome Feet by Directional Furniture

By Directional

Located in New York, NY

Iconic, curved "Serpentine" style sofa by Directional Furniture. This left arm facing sofa with

Category

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Chrome

Serpentine Style Sofa with Chrome Feet by Directional Furniture

H 30 in W 96 in D 40 in

1980s Kagan Style Biomorphic Form Sofa by Directional Furniture

By Directional

Located in Dallas, TX

Furniture. Kidney shaped couches have long been desired by mid-century modern collectors. This curved sofa

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Upholstery

1980s Kagan Style Biomorphic Form Sofa by Directional Furniture

H 28 in W 86 in D 32 in

Linen Dining Chairs by Directional Furniture Co, Set of 6

By Directional

Located in Lake Worth, FL

Dining Chairs by DIRECTIONAL Furniture Co Set includes 6 armchairs Approximate Measurements in

Category

1990s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Linen

Linen Dining Chairs by Directional Furniture Co, Set of 6

H 37.5 in W 24 in D 25 in

Lovely Pair of Directional Croissant Swivel Lounge Chair Mid-Century

By Directional

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Lovely pair of Directional croissant barrel back swivel chairs. This pair will need to be

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Lovely Pair of Directional Croissant Swivel Lounge Chair Mid-Century

H 30 in W 35 in D 36 in

Stunning Pair of Directional Croissant Swivel Lounge Chair Mid-Century

By Directional

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Stunning pair of Directional crescent roll tufted swivel lounge chairs. These wonderful chairs are

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Stunning Pair of Directional Croissant Swivel Lounge Chair Mid-Century

H 32 in W 35.5 in D 36 in

Directional Mid-Century Modern Cherry and Burl Wood Dining Table, Refinished

By Directional

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional Mid-Century Modern extension dining table By Directional USA, Circa 1960s

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Cherry, Burl

Directional Mid-Century Modern Cherry and Burl Wood Dining Table, Refinished

H 28.75 in W 132 in D 44.25 in

Vintage Mid Century Modern 8 Drawer Dresser By Directional Custom Collection

By Directional

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Beautiful vintage Mid Century Modern 8 drawer dresser by Directional custom furniture, tagged

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Materials

Wood

Vintage Mid Century Modern 8 Drawer Dresser By Directional Custom Collection

H 32 in W 18 in D 72 in

Upholstered Bench by Directional

By Directional

Located in New York, NY

Upholstered bench by Directional. The bench has an off-white upholstery with a loose cushioned seat.

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Benches

Materials

Upholstery

Upholstered Bench by Directional

H 22 in W 48.5 in D 19 in

Mid Century Paul McCobb for Directional Lounge Chair 1950s

By Paul McCobb, Directional

Located in Troy, MI

Exceptional lounge chair designed by Paul McCobb for Directional circa 1950s Sculpted alnut frame

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Walnut

Mid Century Paul McCobb for Directional Lounge Chair 1950s

H 33.5 in W 27.75 in D 32 in

Mid Century Kipp Stewart “Arc Lounge Chairs” for Directional

By Kipp Stewart, Directional

Located in Baltimore, MD

A stunning pair of mid-century modern 1960s “Arc” lounge chairs designed by Kipp Stewart for

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Mid Century Kipp Stewart “Arc Lounge Chairs” for Directional

H 25.25 in W 28 in D 30 in

Mid-Century Modern Loveseats by Larry Laslo for Directional, Pair

By Larry Laslo, Directional

Located in Chicago, IL

Mid-Century Modern Channel back loveseat by Larry Laslo for directional newly reupholstered in a

Category

1990s Mid-Century Modern Loveseats

Materials

Mohair

Mid-Century Modern Loveseats by Larry Laslo for Directional, Pair

H 39 in W 75 in D 33 in

Mid-Century Modern Paul Evans Credenza for Directional

By Paul Evans, Directional

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This stunning vintage modern cabinet features the iconic patchwork design by Paul Evans. The cityscape burl wood and chrome design is sure to complement any setting. A versatile case...

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Chrome

Mid-Century Modern Paul Evans Credenza for Directional

H 32.75 in W 72.25 in D 20.25 in

Vintage Vladimir Kagan Serpentine Sofa Blue Microfiber by Directional Furniture

By Vladimir Kagan, Directional

Located in Miami, FL

Original Vintage Vladimir Kagan Cloud Serpentine sofa in blue microfiber by Directional Furniture

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Lucite, Wood, Ultrasuede

Vintage Vladimir Kagan Serpentine Sofa Blue Microfiber by Directional Furniture

H 28 in W 94 in D 39 in

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Multi-Wood Dining Table

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Milo Baughman for Directional mid century multi-wood dining table This table measures: 60 wide x

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Wood

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Multi-Wood Dining Table

H 28.75 in W 100 in D 38 in

Mid-Century Modern Paul McCob Walnut Lounge Chair for Directional Mint

By Paul McCobb, Directional

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Mid-Century Modern Paul McCob Walnut Lounge Chair for Directional Mint!

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Walnut, Upholstery

Mid-Century Modern Paul McCob Walnut Lounge Chair for Directional Mint

H 36 in W 29 in D 32 in

Mid-Century Modern Chrome Armchair by Milo Baughman for Directional, Single

By Directional, Milo Baughman

Located in Stamford, CT

Mid-Century Modern Chrome Armchair by Milo Baughman for Directional, Single Single modernist

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Chrome

Mid-Century Modern Chrome Armchair by Milo Baughman for Directional, Single

H 34 in W 27 in D 22 in

Directional Swivels/Tilts with Ottoman

By Directional

Located in Chicago, IL

c. 1980s reupholstered in Bernhardt mohair, excellent condition. The ottoman is on castors Ottoman - 29”W 22”D 16”H

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Mohair

Directional Swivels/Tilts with Ottoman

H 32 in W 32 in D 32 in

Handsome Milo Baughman Directional Cube Lounge Chair Mid-Century Modern

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Handsome Milo Baughman for Directional even arm cube lounge chair. This chair was re-upholstered

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Handsome Milo Baughman Directional Cube Lounge Chair Mid-Century Modern

H 25 in W 32.5 in D 33 in

Pr. Mid-Century Lounge Chairs Attributed to Directional Ca 1950's

By Directional, Paul McCobb

Located in New York, NY

Pr. stylish lounge chairs made inn the 1950's, attributed to Directional Furniture Company, in the

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Pr. Mid-Century Lounge Chairs Attributed to Directional Ca 1950's

H 30.5 in W 30.5 in D 28 in

Pair of Lounge Chairs by Directional

By Directional

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This vintage pair of lounge chairs by Directional feature a shimmering upholstery with embroidered

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Metal

Pair of Lounge Chairs by Directional

H 28 in W 28 in D 28 in

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Chrome Chair and Ottoman Set

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Chrome Chair and Ottoman Set Each chair measures: 33

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Chrome Chair and Ottoman Set

H 34 in W 33 in D 35 in

Paul Evans for Directional Cityscape Style Mid Century Patchwork Burlwood Table

By Paul Evans, Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Paul Evans for Directional Cityscape style mid century patchwork burlwood table The table

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Burl

Paul Evans for Directional Cityscape Style Mid Century Patchwork Burlwood Table

H 29.25 in W 39 in D 39 in

Paul McCobb for Directional Mid-Century Modern Sofa with Brass Cross Stretcher

By Paul McCobb, Directional

Located in St. Louis, MO

1950s Mid-Century Modern Paul McCobb for Directional sofa on tapered legs with round brass

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Loveseats

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Paul McCobb for Directional Mid-Century Modern Sofa with Brass Cross Stretcher

H 32.75 in W 77 in D 31.25 in

Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Lounge Chair by Vladimir Kagan for Directional

By Vladimir Kagan, Directional

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A stunning dramatic form lounge chair designed by Vladimir Kagan and produced by Directional in the

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fabric

Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Lounge Chair by Vladimir Kagan for Directional

H 39 in W 38 in D 33 in

Mid Century Sideboard Credenza by Milo Baughman for Directional. Circa 1960s

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in Miami, FL

Mid Century Sideboard Credenza by Milo Baughman for Directional. Circa 1960s Features a sleek Mid

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Walnut

Mid Century Sideboard Credenza by Milo Baughman for Directional. Circa 1960s

H 30.5 in W 54 in D 18 in

Pair of Directional White Laminate and Chrome Bedside Tables / Commodes

By Directional

Located in New York, NY

PAIR of American Mid-Century white laminate bedside tables / commodes with one large cabinet and

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Night Stands

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Pair of Directional White Laminate and Chrome Bedside Tables / Commodes

H 22.5 in W 32 in D 18 in

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid-Century Modern Walnut Dining Table, Refinished

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional Mid-Century Modern extension dining table By Milo Baughman USA, 1960s

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Walnut

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid-Century Modern Walnut Dining Table, Refinished

H 29 in W 98 in D 38 in

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Inlaid Dining Table with 2 Leaves

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Inlaid Dining Table with 2 Leaves This table measures

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Wood

Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Inlaid Dining Table with 2 Leaves

H 29 in W 112 in D 42 in

Midcentury Burled Nesting Tables by Directional

By Directional

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Classic midcentury Parsons style nesting tables made by Directional in thick burl veneer over solid

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Nesting Tables and Stacking Ta...

Materials

Burl

Midcentury Burled Nesting Tables by Directional

H 18.5 in W 30 in D 20 in

Corkscrew or Nautilus Swivel Chairs by Directional

By Directional

Located in St.Petersburg, FL

that is a retailer for high end furnishings including Directional Furniture.

Category

1990s American Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Ultrasuede

Corkscrew or Nautilus Swivel Chairs by Directional

H 29 in W 35 in D 34 in

Directional Channel Tufted Slipper Chaise Lounge, 1970

By Directional

Located in Chicago, IL

Directional channeled tufted slipper chaise lounge chair, 1970. Restored and reupholstered in white

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Bouclé

Directional Channel Tufted Slipper Chaise Lounge, 1970

H 38 in W 72 in D 30 in

Pair of Mid-Century Lounge Chairs by Paul McCobb for Directional, 1950s

By Paul McCobb, Directional

Located in Rosendahl, DE

Very comfortable and attractive pair of lounge chairs from the 1950s by Paul McCobb. The armchairs are newly upholstered and covered with a high-quality, off-white wool fabric. Mode...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Wool, Wood

Pair of Mid-Century Lounge Chairs by Paul McCobb for Directional, 1950s

H 30.32 in W 28.35 in D 31.11 in

Directional Swivel Beige Leather Club Lounge Pair Armchairs, style of Baughman

By Directional

Located in Philadelphia, PA

mid-late 20th century. Measurements: 30" H x 34" W x 36" D x 18" seat height x 20" arm height.

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Leather

Directional Swivel Beige Leather Club Lounge Pair Armchairs, style of Baughman

H 30 in W 34 in D 36 in

Caned Sideboard Cabinet by Paul McCobb for Directional Furniture c 1958, Signed

By Paul McCobb, Directional

Located in Los Angeles, CA

additional height. *Shelves are adjustable. This classic collectors piece by Directional Furniture would

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Caned Sideboard Cabinet by Paul McCobb for Directional Furniture c 1958, Signed

H 76.5 in W 60 in D 18 in

Monumental Black Lacquered Low Table by Directional

By Directional

Located in Dallas, TX

Gorgeous black gloss lacquered pillow freeform low table by Directional. Monolithic and minimal in

Category

Vintage 1970s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Monumental Black Lacquered Low Table by Directional

H 17 in W 44 in D 44 in

Pair of Large Swiveling Lounge Chairs by Directional

By Directional

Located in Dallas, TX

Thoughtfully curated pair of vintage swivel chairs by Directional, circa 1980's. Acquire leisure

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Pair of Large Swiveling Lounge Chairs by Directional

H 29 in W 34 in D 33 in

Midcentury Expandable Milo Baughman Dining Table for Directional

By Directional

Located in Baltimore, MD

An exceptional Milo Baughman Parsons dining table circa 1960s, by Directional Furniture. This

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Rosewood, Teak, Walnut, Lacquer

Midcentury Expandable Milo Baughman Dining Table for Directional

H 30 in W 38 in D 100 in

Steve Chase Style Channel Tufted Sectional by Directional

By Directional

Located in Raleigh, NC

Vintage Steve Chase Style sectional with deep seat and large scale. Extremely well built and ready for updating.

Category

Vintage 1980s North American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Upholstery

Steve Chase Style Channel Tufted Sectional by Directional

H 32 in W 132 in D 114 in

Kagan for Directional Midcentury Lounge Chairs with Ottoman, Pair

By Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Vladimir Kagan for Directional midcentury lounge chairs with ottoman - pair Each chair measures

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Metal

Kagan for Directional Midcentury Lounge Chairs with Ottoman, Pair

H 28.25 in W 35.25 in D 35.25 in

Blush Pink Boucle Sculptural Sofa by Directional, circa 1980

By Directional

Located in Saint Louis, MO

One look at this sofa, and you're hooked. The perfect pink blush-tone bouclé fabric and the soft, inviting curves are so seductive. It evokes a warm, loving feeling that is soothing,...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Bouclé

Blush Pink Boucle Sculptural Sofa by Directional, circa 1980

H 34 in W 99 in D 36 in

Paul McCobb for Directional Mid Century Walnut and Cane Dining Chairs, Set of 6

By Paul McCobb, Directional

Located in Countryside, IL

Paul McCobb for Directional Mid Century walnut and cane dining chairs - set of 6 Each armless

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Walnut

Paul McCobb for Directional Mid Century Walnut and Cane Dining Chairs, Set of 6

H 36 in W 23 in D 20 in

Channel Back Swivel Chairs on Dark Walnut Supports, Directional, C. 1970s

By Directional

Located in Westport, CT

Enhance your space with this exquisite set of Mid-Century Modern swivel chairs by Directional

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Bouclé, Walnut

Channel Back Swivel Chairs on Dark Walnut Supports, Directional, C. 1970s

H 26 in W 31 in D 33 in

1970s Directional Pair of Swivel Lounge Chairs in Ivory Velvet

By Directional

Located in New York, NY

1970s Directional pair of ivory velvet swivel lounge chairs with slightly curved backs and seats

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Velvet, Wood

1970s Directional Pair of Swivel Lounge Chairs in Ivory Velvet

H 31 in W 33 in D 34 in

Midcentury Burl Wood and Black Lacquered Credenza by Directional

By Directional

Located in North Hollywood, CA

Directional in the United States, circa 1970s. This credenza perfectly exemplifies the modern and daring ideas

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Burl, Lacquer

Midcentury Burl Wood and Black Lacquered Credenza by Directional

H 32.5 in W 72.25 in D 20.25 in

Signed Directional Sculptural Cubist Style Pair Lounge Chairs Vintage & Original

By Directional

Located in Philadelphia, PA

These super stylish cubist form club or lounge chairs retain their original patterned upholstery! But that's not the best part. Light weight, medium scale, super comfortable, you'll ...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Upholstery

Signed Directional Sculptural Cubist Style Pair Lounge Chairs Vintage & Original

H 32 in W 31 in D 29 in

1980s Light Beige Directional Nautilus Swivel Chairs, Set of 2

By Directional

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

These Iconic swivel chairs are packed with personality! Outstanding design is exhibited throughout the monumental form. Post modern designed by Vladimir Kagan. The unique corkscrew s...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

1980s Light Beige Directional Nautilus Swivel Chairs, Set of 2

H 30 in W 34 in D 34 in

Large Three Piece Sectional Sofa by Directional. Black/White Fabric. Signed.

By Directional

Located in Kansas City, MO

L shaped sectional sofa by Directional in a beautiful black and white patterned fabric with a

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Large Three Piece Sectional Sofa by Directional. Black/White Fabric. Signed.

H 29 in W 187 in D 97 in

Pair of Directional Post Modern Swivel Chairs and Ottoman in Ivory Bouclé

By Directional

Located in Saint Louis, MO

Directional. Our shop has carried several Directional and Vladimir Kagan style lounge chairs in our inventory

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Bouclé, Upholstery

Pair of Directional Post Modern Swivel Chairs and Ottoman in Ivory Bouclé

H 32 in W 32 in D 36 in

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Mid Century Directional Furniture For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the piece of mid century directional furniture you’re looking for. An item from our selection of mid century directional furniture — often made from wood, metal and fabric — can elevate any home. If you’re shopping for a choice in our collection of mid century directional furniture, we have 1079 options in-stock, while there are 3 modern editions to choose from as well. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect object in our assortment of mid century directional furniture — we have versions that date back to the 20th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. When you’re browsing for the right option in this array of mid century directional furniture, those designed in Mid-Century Modern, Modern and Hollywood Regency styles are of considerable interest. Directional, Paul Evans and Vladimir Kagan each produced at least one beautiful piece of mid century directional furniture that is worth considering.

How Much is a Mid Century Directional Furniture?

The average selling price for a piece of mid century directional furniture at 1stDibs is $5,896, while they’re typically $20 on the low end and $85,000 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 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 Directional Furniture

What is mid century furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.
What is mid century modern furniture?
2 Answers
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, 2021
Mid 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.
How can you tell if furniture is mid century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
What defines mid-century modern furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.
Why is mid-century modern furniture so popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
Mid-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.
What year is mid-century modern furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
There 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.
Who were the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers?
1 Answer
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.

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