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.

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 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.

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.

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.

What defines mid-century modern home decor?

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

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.

What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?

Some 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.

Mid Century Modern Chaise

Black Chaise

Edwardian Or Victorian Chaise Longue

Chaise Lounge And Lounge Chairs

Midcentury Wave Chaise

Modern Chrome Chaise Longues

Mohair Chaise

Boucle Chaise

Chaise Lounge With Wood Frame

Vinyl and Walnut Mid-Century Modern Chaise Lounge

$1,600

Vinyl and Walnut Mid-Century Modern Chaise Lounge

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pairing a vibrant upholstery with walnut legs and frame, this Mid-Century Modern chaise lounge could be used as a massage table or as a comfortable yet stylish place to recline.

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Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

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CraftAssociates Chaises, Contour Mid Century Modern Chaise Lounge, Fur, Leather

$10,500 / item

CraftAssociates Chaises, Contour Mid Century Modern Chaise Lounge, Fur, Leather

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CraftAssociates Chaises, Contour Mid Century Modern Chaise Lounge, Fur, Leather Craft Associates® Furniture is proud each piece is made in the US.

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$20,600

Movéis Drago Chaise Longues Trident / Authentic Mid-Century Modern

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Mid Century Modern Woodard Scupltura Mesh Outdoor Chaise Lounge Chair

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Located in Wilmington, DE

Mid Century Modern Woodard Scupltura Mesh Outdoor Chaise Lounge Chair Offered is a Mid Century Modern Woodard Scupltura Mesh Outdoor Chaise Lounge Chair.

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Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern Pier 1 Wicker and Rattan Chaise Lounge

$1,800

Mid Century Modern Pier 1 Wicker and Rattan Chaise Lounge

Located in New York, NY

Sexy and sculptural wicker and rattan chaise lounge . This mid century design by early Pier 1 and no longer available is not only great looking but also comfortable . Arm rests and t...

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Mid-20th Century Asian Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

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Early Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Bamboo / Rattan Chaise Lounge Chair

Located in Philadelphia, PA

An amazing early bamboo chaise from c. 1940's. It features a bamboo frame with woven seating area. Has been professionally retouched and ready for immediate use.

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Rattan

1950's Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Chaise Lounge Chair in Retro Orange

Located in Philadelphia, PA

An incredibly designed and constructed chaise lounge from the 1950's. It features a heavy internal frame with orange naugahyde upholstery and solid walnut legs. Slightly reclines for...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Naugahyde, Wood

Wonderful Adrian Pearsall Curved Wave Chaise Lounge Rocker Mid-Century Modern

$3,600Sale Price|20% Off

Wonderful Adrian Pearsall Curved Wave Chaise Lounge Rocker Mid-Century Modern

By Adrian Pearsall

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Wonderful Adrian Pearsall curved wave chaise lounge rocker. This piece was reupholstered in the 80's and will most certainly need to be redone. The walnut rocker base was also uphols...

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Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

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MCM European Wooden Organic Modern Studio Craft Mid Century Chaise Lounge Rocker

$5,590

MCM European Wooden Organic Modern Studio Craft Mid Century Chaise Lounge Rocker

Located in High Point, NC

A true conversation piece, this extraordinary organic-modern rocking chaise lounge blurs the line between furniture and functional sculpture. Its sensuous, wave-like silhouette rises...

Category

Vintage 1970s European Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Wood, Hardwood, Oak, Rosewood, Teak

$4,200

Mid Century Post Modern Curved Chaise Lounge or Loveseat in Black Velvet

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A sleek contemporary chaise lounge circa 1980's. This well made sofa retains its's original black velvet like upholstery. Its in very clean condition and usable as it is.

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Fabric

$9,500

Mid Century Paul McCobb Chaise In Custom Upholstery

By Paul McCobb

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Classic Mid Century style from the Iconic design figurehead Paul McCobb. Raised on four squared, tapered legs with parcel gilt finished metallic stretcher supports. The seat cushion ...

Category

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Unavailable

H 38.25 in W 25.5 in D 74.75 in

Antibes Chaise

By FBC London

Located in London, GB

Inspired by the relaxed elegance of the South of France, the Antibes Chaise is the ultimate in refined yet inviting luxury. Beautifully upholstered and complete with a leather head r...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

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Olivier Mourgue Djinn Chaise Lounge, Airborne International French Modern 1960s

Unavailable

H 24.81 in W 68.9 in D 23.63 in

Olivier Mourgue Djinn Chaise Lounge, Airborne International French Modern 1960s

By Olivier Mourgue, Airborne International

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Offerd by Zitzo, Amsterdam this Olivier Mourgue Djinn chaise longue chair, model 8412. Original upholstery, steel frame. Olivier Mourgue (borne 1939, France) worked with the French...

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Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Saporiti Chaise Lounge

Unavailable

Unavailable

Unavailable

H 30 in W 29 in D 56 in

Adrian Pearsall Wave Chaise

By Adrian Pearsall

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Wave chaise lounge by Adrian Pearsall 1960's. The chaise has been beautifully stripped down to its bones and fully reupholstered in a mint embroidered zig-zag chenille. This will add...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

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Chenille

George Nelson Chaise Lounge

Unavailable

H 28.5 in W 52.5 in D 60.5 in

George Nelson Chaise Lounge

By George Nelson

Located in Tulsa, OK

All original George Nelson for Herman Miller chaise longue. It features chair with tilting arm and rare tray table attachment. It also has the oversized ottoman that converts piece t...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Steel

Unavailable

H 31.89 in W 21.26 in D 55.91 in

Andrew J. Milne Chaise Longue

By Andrew Milne

Located in London, GB

A rare chaise longue designed by Andrew J. Milne. Mid-20th century design at its best, superb style to this bentwood chaise longue, which we have re upholstered in a high quality co...

Category

Vintage 1950s British Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Bentwood, Leather

Bamboo and Cowhide Chaise Longue

Unavailable

H 28 in W 75 in D 24 in

Bamboo and Cowhide Chaise Longue

Located in Newburgh, NY

An unusual bamboo and cowhide chaise, all original and vintage, the price includes full restoration.

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Milo Baughman Style Chaise Longue

Unavailable

H 32.5 in W 58 in D 27 in

Milo Baughman Style Chaise Longue

By Milo Baughman, Carsons

Located in Turners Falls, MA

Milo Baughman style chrome frame chaise longue.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Chrome

Located in Cathedral City, CA

A custom made Mongolian cover rests on top of this 1960's chaise lounge.

Materials

Upholstery, Walnut

$14,800

H 35 in W 61 in D 31 in

Italian Designer, Settee, Shearling, Brass, Italy, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A shearling and brass settee designed and produced by an Italian designer, Italy, 1950s. Seat Height (inches): 15" All items ship from High Point, North Carolina

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Brass

$7,800

H 28 in W 108 in D 108 in L 28 in

Mid-Century Modern Curved L Shape Sectional Sofa & Chaise in Art Deco Form

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A large vintage 2 piece sectional sofa with a gorgeous form. It features 2 sections with a low profile sculptural look. Feet are low profile 1 inch cylinders. Fabric is original and ...

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Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

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Pair of Italian Mid-Century-Modern Lounge Chairs in Ochre Boucle, 1970s Italy

$1,834 / set

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Post Modern Chaise Lounge by Thayer Coggin att. to Milo Baughman c 1980/90's

$1,800

H 33.5 in W 60 in D 38 in

Post Modern Chaise Lounge by Thayer Coggin att. to Milo Baughman c 1980/90's

By Thayer Coggin, Milo Baughman

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Mid Century Modern Chaise For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic mid century modern chaise available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of fabric, metal and wood, every mid century modern chaise was constructed with great care. If you’re shopping for a mid century modern chaise, we have 2694 options in-stock, while there are 109 modern editions to choose from as well. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect mid century modern chaise — we have versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. A mid century modern chaise, designed in the mid-century modern, Scandinavian Modern or modern style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. A well-made mid century modern chaise has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Adrian Pearsall, Craft Associates and Cassina are consistently popular.

How Much is a Mid Century Modern Chaise?

Prices for a mid century modern chaise start at $5 and top out at $192,416 with the average selling for $4,655.

A Close Look at Mid-century Modern Furniture

Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living.

ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Emerged during the mid-20th century
Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
A heyday of innovation in postwar America
Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
Promotion of functionality

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

Charles and Ray Eames
Eero Saarinen
Milo Baughman
Florence Knoll
Harry Bertoia
Isamu Noguchi
George Nelson
Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa

ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS

VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.

Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.

Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer.

Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.

The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by celebrated manufacturer Knoll, a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.

As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.

Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.

Generations turn over, and mid-century modern remains arguably the most popular style going. As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.

Finding the Right Chaise-longues for You

Sit back, relax and get all of the ergonomic support you could ever need by introducing an alluring antique or vintage chaise longue in your living room or by your outdoor fire pit.

The chaise longue is an upholstered piece of furniture that was made popular in France in the early 16th century. This low reclining seat — a “long chair” in English — boasts an elongated form and low back that extends about half the length of the furnishing, affording the welcome opportunity for a sitter to put their feet up and relax. A comfortable common ground between sofas and daybeds, early iterations of chaise longues were discovered in Ancient Egypt and were later frequently used in both Greece and Rome.

In the late 1700s, the first chaise longues were imported to America, and English speakers have struggled with the name ever since. (In the United States, the term is frequently spelled “chaise lounge.”) So, how do you pronounce chaise longue? It sounds like “shayz lawng,” but limiting it to shayz is perfectly acceptable in the States.

Antique Victorian chaise longues and 19th-century chaise longues bring luxury and perhaps extravagance to your living space while mid-century modern chaise longues, designed by the likes of Adrian Pearsall, Vladimir Kagan or Milo Baughman, can alter an interior with dazzling geometric contours and richly varied textures.

On 1stDibs, find many kinds of chaise longues for your home — from sculptural works by Charlotte Perriand to plush and velvety Louis XVI pieces to minimalist contemporary versions to suit your understated decor.

Questions About Mid Century Modern Chaise

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.
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.

Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
Some 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.

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