What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

The 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.

Why is mid century modern popular?

Most 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 rattan mid-century modern?

Yes, 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.

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Yes, 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.

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Yes, 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.

What does mid century modern mean?

Mid 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.

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.

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Yes, 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.

What years are mid century modern?

The 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.

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.

Are Wassily chairs mid-century modern?

Yes, 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.

What defines mid-century modern furniture?

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

What color wood is mid-century modern?

There 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.

Is a tulip table mid century modern?

Yes, 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?

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.

What defines a mid-century modern desk?

Mid-century modern desks (roughly 1940s-1960s) are defined by clean lines, tapered legs and natural wood tones like teak, walnut and rosewood, often with minimal hardware.

What are the defining characteristics of mid-century modern design?

The 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.

What color should I paint my mid century modern home?

There are many colors available for painting a mid-century modern home and it is a matter of preference. You can choose from a range of colors that are closely associated with mid-century modernism — popular pairings include orange and brown or chartreuse and gray, for example. Find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture, decorative pieces, serveware and lighting on 1stDibs today.

What defines mid-century modern home decor?

Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.

Mid Century Modern Bureau

Charlotte Perriand Forme Libre Table

Italian Bureau

$7,158

Osvaldo Borsani Bureau T403, Glass & Chrome, Mid-Century Modern, Italy

By Osvaldo Borsani

Located in SAINT-SEVER, FR

Bureau T403 conçu par Osvaldo Borsani pour Tecno dans les années 1970. Ce bureau vintage italien moderne présente une structure en acier, un plateau en verre laqué et des éléments en...

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Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Mid-Century Modern Desk Sideboard Bureau Secretaire Belgium Design, 1960s

$2,482Sale Price|20% Off

$1,459Sale Price|20% Off

Mid Century 1960s Scandi Roll Top Bureau / Desk in Teak by Egon Ostergaard

By Egon Ostergaard, SMF Svenska Möbelfabriken Bodafors

Located in Markington, GB

sought after unusual Secretary in teak with locking roll-top door, a selection of small drawers and storage compartments as well as a hidden pull-out black worktop. Also features thr...

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Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Arne Wahl Iversen Bureau Desk Danish Mid Century Teak 1960s MCM Scandinavian

$4,534

$18,800

$31,495

Bureau in Rosewood and Brass by Tage Lindgren, 1954

By Tage Lindgren

Located in Limhamn, Skåne län

Bureau in Rosewood and Brass by Tage Lindgren, 1954 Additional Information: Material: Rosewood and brass Style: Mid century, Scandinavian Produced in Sweden Dimensions (W x D x H): ...

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20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

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lampe de bureau vintage 1960 Français signée

$332

$668

$11,500 / set

$29,262 / item

Charlotte Perriand Wood Petit Bureau En Forme Libre Table For Cassina

By Charlotte Perriand

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

Charlotte Perriand Petit Bureau En Forme Libre Table For Cassina A design table crafted by Charlotte Perriand to bring the warmth of wood and a free-spirited aesthetic into her stud...

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2010s French Mid-Century Modern Tables

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Arne Hovmand-Olsen for Mogens Kold Rosewood Bureau Vanity, circa 1960

$8,784

Arne Hovmand-Olsen for Mogens Kold Rosewood Bureau Vanity, circa 1960

Located in Nottingham, GB

An exceptional Danish Mid-Century Modern rosewood bureau and vanity designed by Arne Hovmand-Olsen for Mogens Kold Møbelfabrik, dating to circa 1960.

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Oak Bureau with Ceramic Handles by Guillerme & Chambron, France, 1960s

$11,338

$2,278

Bureau de direction pieds traîneau vintage en pin des années 60 70

Located in BESANÇON, FR

Grand bureau type bureau de direction vintage des années 60 70, en bois de pin, pieds traîneau, un bloc 3 tiroirs et un bloc avec 1 porte, design incroyable, très jolies poignées. Tr...

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Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Pine

$7,912

Grand bureau de direction double-face vintage en bois de chêne des années 70

Located in BESANÇON, FR

Grand bureau de direction vintage des années 70, en chêne, double-face pour être placé au centre d’une pièce, 5 tiroirs à l’avant dont un grand casier, superbes poignées, magnifique ...

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Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Wood

Lampe de Bureau Champignon en Verre Opalin et Socle en Marbre, 1960

$1,823Sale Price|20% Off

Lampe de Bureau Champignon en Verre Opalin et Socle en Marbre, 1960

By Florence Knoll

Located in SAINT-SEVER, FR

Élégance et minimalisme en lumière Lampe en verre et verre opalin piétement marbre et métal chromé circa 1965. Un design intemporel qui illumine votre espace avec douceur et raffin...

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Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Marble

Recent Sales

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H 38.25 in W 35.5 in D 18.5 in

Mid-Century Modern Teak Rolltop Desk Bureau, 1960s

Located in Raymondville, TX

A vintage 1960's Swedish modern teak roll-top desk/bureau. Featuring a roll-up top, extendable desk surface, five storage cubbies, three upper drawers and four lower drawers with scu...

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Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Brass

Mid-Century Teak Bureau Table

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H 39.38 in W 31.5 in D 17.72 in

Mid-Century Teak Bureau Table

Located in London, GB

Mid-century teak bureau table circa 1960s/70s, with three small drawers and galley over three long drawers. Dimensions: H100 x W80 x D45 cm.

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20th Century European Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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Teak

Henredon Mid-Century Modern Campaign Bureau With Bookcase Top

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H 30.5 in W 39.75 in D 24 in

Maison Jansen Bureau Plat Desk, Mid-Century Modern, French

By Maison Jansen

Located in Montreal, Quebec

In good condition consistent with age and use. France, Mid-Century Modern. Attributed to Maison Jansen.

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Mid-20th Century French Louis XVI Desks

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Bronze

Mid Century Modern Vintage Drinks Cabinet Bureau Desk Danish Style

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H 32.5 in W 40 in D 15.75 in

Mid Century Modern Vintage Drinks Cabinet Bureau Desk Danish Style

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Discover this gorgeous compact universal cabinet from Mid Century Traders that effortlessly blends form and function. This versatile piece can serve as a desk, drinks cabinet, or sto...

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Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

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Teak

H 38.19 in W 35.44 in D 17.72 in

Mid-Century Solid Teakwood Bureau Germany, 1950

Located in Madrid, ES

Original 1950 bureau made in solid teakwood with three drawers, extensible writing desk and a secreter close by a rounded folding door. Complimentary measurements: height to th...

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Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Mid Century Modern Teak Danish Design Kofod Larsen Wall Unit Bar Bureau

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H 68 in W 40 in D 18 in

Mid Century Modern Teak Danish Design Kofod Larsen Wall Unit Bar Bureau

By G Plan Furniture, Ib Kofod-Larsen

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This gorgeous wall unit designed in the 1960's by Kofod Larsen for G Plan is a design classic. It offers great storage but will fit in to a small space whilst still looking stunning....

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Teak

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H 39 in W 35.25 in D 18 in

Vintage Mid Century Modern Danish Style Teak Roll Top Cylinder Desk Bureau 1968

Located in Portland, OR

A good Mid Century Modern roll top cylinder desk bureau, circa 1968.

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Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Mid Century Teak Bureau Bookcase from Vanson, 1960s

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H 66.15 in W 36.03 in D 17.52 in

Mid Century Teak Bureau Bookcase from Vanson, 1960s

By Vanson

Located in South Shields, GB

A mid century teak bureau bookcase from Vanson, circa 1960s The piece is quality made - featuring two shelves to the top and a pull down desk area with additional storage and shelvi...

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Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

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Danish Mid-Century Teak Desk / Writing Bureau, 1960s

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H 39.77 in W 36.23 in D 15.75 in

Danish Mid-Century Teak Desk / Writing Bureau, 1960s

Located in Nørre Aaby, DK

Functional Danish teak secretary / writing desk from the 1960s featuring three spacious drawers and a pull-out writing surface. Simple, elegant design with ample storage, perfect as ...

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Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

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Mid Century Modern Vintage Secretaire Writing Bureau Desk by G plan Danish Style

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H 41.5 in W 33.25 in D 17 in

Teak Bureau/Vanity

Located in Puslinch, ON

Condition: Pre-Restored Dimensions: 33.25” L x 17” D x 41.5” H (27” Desk Height) Description: A vintage teak vanity/desk with drawers. Lock works and comes with key. Freshly import...

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Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

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1980s Bureau by Dyrlund

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H 43.31 in W 35.44 in D 18.51 in

1980s Bureau by Dyrlund

By Dyrlund

Located in Neuss, NW

Classic bureau from the 1980s. High-quality corpus in solid teak with four drawers, a pull-out work surface, five internal drawers, a tambour door, a shelf and many compartments. Q...

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Vintage 1980s Danish Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

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1970s Bureau, Peter Maly

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$3,950

H 48.5 in W 39 in D 16.5 in

Mid-Century Danish Modern Teak Secretary Desk Cabinet 1960s

By H.P. Hansen

Located in Detroit, MI

This vintage mid-century Danish modern teak secretary desk attributed to H.P. Hansen was made in Denmark in the 1960s. It exemplifies classic Scandinavian modern styling with clean g...

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Italian Mid-Century Modern 1950s Sculptural Writing Desk in Mahogany

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Writing desk, mahogany, glass, Italy, 1950s This exceptional Italian desk from the 1950s embodies the sophistication and expressive freedom that defined the finest mid-century desig...

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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George Nakashima Inspired Walnut Desk by Boyd & Allister

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Mid-Century Large Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

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Midcentury Modernist “Architect's Desk”, Hans J. Wegner, Denmark, 1960s

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Large executive desk, design Vittorio Dassi, Italy, 1950s

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Mid Century Modern Bureau For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the mid century modern bureau you’re looking for. Frequently made of wood, hardwood and teak, every mid century modern bureau was constructed with great care. Find 79 options for an antique or vintage mid century modern bureau now, or shop our selection of 1 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Your living room may not be complete without a mid century modern bureau — find older editions for sale from the 19th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A mid century modern bureau is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern and Louis XVI styles are sought with frequency. Many designers have produced at least one well-made mid century modern bureau over the years, but those crafted by Ib Kofod-Larsen, Jean Prouvé and Giovanni Gariboldi are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Mid Century Modern Bureau?

A mid century modern bureau can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $2,959, while the lowest priced sells for $431 and the highest can go for as much as $22,108.

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.

Questions About Mid Century Modern Bureau

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
The 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.
Why is mid century modern popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Most 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 rattan mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
Yes, 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.
Is Mondrian mid century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, 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.
Is mid-century modern timeless?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
Yes, 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.
What does mid century modern mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Mid 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.
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.
Is Eames mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
Yes, 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.
What years are mid century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024
The 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.

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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.
Are Wassily chairs mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, 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.
What defines mid-century modern furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.
What color wood is mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
There 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.
Is a tulip table mid century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, 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 Answer
1stDibs 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.
What defines a mid-century modern desk?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026
Mid-century modern desks (roughly 1940s-1960s) are defined by clean lines, tapered legs and natural wood tones like teak, walnut and rosewood, often with minimal hardware.
What are the defining characteristics of mid-century modern design?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
The 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.
What color should I paint my mid century modern home?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
There are many colors available for painting a mid-century modern home and it is a matter of preference. You can choose from a range of colors that are closely associated with mid-century modernism — popular pairings include orange and brown or chartreuse and gray, for example. Find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture, decorative pieces, serveware and lighting on 1stDibs today.
What defines mid-century modern home decor?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.