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Mid Century Formica and Iron Cafe Dining Table
Located in New York, NY
. Faux wood grain formica tops, having a beveled edge, and gold tone rim. Bases are heavy cast iron
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Iron
French Midcentury Formica Dinette Set by SIF
Located in Atlanta, GA
French Midcentury Retro Kitchenette Set in a daring powder blue formica from the SIF brand made
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Sets
Materials
Chrome
Mid Century Formica and Beech Wood Coffee Table, 1960´s, Czechoslovakia
By Interiér Praha
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid century opaxite glass coffee table from the 1960´s. Associated with the world-renowned
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood, Beech
H 23.23 in W 44.49 in D 20.87 in
Mid-Century Formica Waterfall Console Table, attributed to Karl Springer, 1970s
By Karl Springer
Located in Dublin 8, IE
Originally sourced in the USA this post modern / 1980s waterfall shape formica console table adds a
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Console Tables
Materials
Formica
H 31.5 in W 48.43 in D 18.51 in
French Mid Century Formica Brass Phono Table-Magazine Console Table-60s
Located in Bussiere Dunoise, Nouvel Aquitaine
French Vintage Magazin Rack- Phono Table-Side Table-Retro Formica Console-Mahogany Effect -70s
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Console Tables
Materials
Metal, Brass
H 20.48 in W 19.69 in D 15.75 in
Midcentury Formica and Ceramic Box by Einar Johansen & Søholm for Torben Ørskov
By Einar Johansen
Located in Esbjerg, DK
shallow relief, box-sides in solid rosewood upon af plate in black formica. The lid was designed by
Category
Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Materials
Ceramic, Formica
H 1.7 in W 4.34 in D 4.34 in
Mid-Century, Danish Style, Formica, Teak Wood Effect, Wall Mirror
Located in Glasgow, GB
Formica with a teak-wood effect, typical of the material usage from the mid-century era.
The mirror is
Category
Vintage 1960s British Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Plastic
Vintage Expo 58 Formica Plant Table Plant Stand Design 1950s
Located in Poperinge, BE
Vintage mid-century formica en houten plantentafel, plantenstandaard met conische houten pootjes
Category
Mid-20th Century European Mid-Century Modern Pedestals
Materials
Wood
Midcentury Aluminum and Formica Cart Magazine Rack Parisi Style for MB, 1960s
By MB Italy, Ico Parisi
Located in Roma, IT
Elegant midcentury formica and aluminium magazine rack trolley with design wheels. This fantastic
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass, Aluminum, Metal
H 23.63 in W 22.05 in D 9.85 in
Mid Century Parquet Oak and Formica Coffee Table
Located in W Allenhurst, NJ
Unique parquet oak coffee table with white formica surface. Open storage compartment. Sits on
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Iron
Mid-Century Deco Modern Formica Rosewood Cabinet
Located in Forney, TX
An impressive, very good quality mid-century cabinet, Art Deco Moderne taste, finished in stunning
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Cabinets
Materials
Formica, Rosewood
Mid-Century Modern Laminate Formica Top and Rattan Coffee Table
Located in Cincinnati, OH
Mid-Century Modern Laminate Formica Top and Rattan Coffee Table
Scratch on one end of table (see
Category
Mid-20th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Rattan, Laminate, Formica
Vintage Johnson Carper Mid Century Modern Walnut Formica Top Credenza Dresser
By Johnson Carper
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Johnson-Carper "Fashion Trends" Mid Century Modern Walnut Credenza Dresser with Woodgrain
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Materials
Formica, Walnut
H 30 in W 62.5 in D 18 in
Vintage Mid Century Modern Laminate Formica Case 72" Credenza Cabinet Buffet
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Mid Century Modern Laminate Formica Case 72" Credenza Cabinet Buffet. Item features cane
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Cabinets
Materials
Metal
Vintage Mid Century Modern Danish Style Walnut & Formica Square Coffee Table
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Mid Century Modern Walnut & Formica Square Coffee Table in the Danish Style. Item features
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Formica, Walnut
Johnson Carper Mid Century Modern Walnut Formica Top 4 Drawer Chest Dresser
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Johnson Carper Mid Century Modern Walnut Formica Top 4 Drawer Chest Dresser Highboy. Item
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Materials
Formica, Walnut
Mid-Century Mersman Teak and Formica Top Three-Tier Side Table
By Mersman
Located in Germantown, MD
1960s Mersman Furniture three Tier Formica top and Teak table. May be used as coffee table, Side
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Formica, Teak
Mid Century Modern Formica 5 Drawers Dental Cabinet on Wheels
By Knoll
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid Century Modern Formica 5 Drawers Dental Cabinet on Wheels
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Materials
Formica
Vintage Credenza, Laminate, Formica, Walnut Grain, Mid Century, MCM, Office
Located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Vintage Credenza, Laminate, Formica, Walnut Grain, Mid Century, MCM, Office, Living Room.
Vintage
Category
Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Credenzas
Materials
Laminate, Formica
H 29.5 in W 71.75 in D 18 in
Mid-Century Modern Triangle Trolley Brass and Formica Wood
Located in Schöfflisdorf, CH
Mid-Century Modern triangle trolley brass and formica wood.
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Biomorphic Side Table with Formica Top
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Original Googie-era biomorphic three-tier side lamp table, featuring a marbleized white Formica top
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Laminate Formica Top and Rattan End/Side Tables - Set of 2
Located in Cincinnati, OH
Mid-Century Modern Laminate Formica Top and Rattan End/Side Tables - Set of 2
Top and Bottom Shelf
Category
Mid-20th Century American Side Tables
Materials
Rattan, Laminate, Formica
H 20.5 in W 17.5 in D 24.5 in
Mid-Century Foldable Bar Cart Tea Trolley In Chrome & Formica
By Ary Sweden 1, Nils Trautner
Located in Torquay, GB
steel structure with detachable formica rosewood trays.
Glides on 4 wheeled feet.
In excellent vintage
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Steel, Chrome
Funky Mid-Century Modern Rattan and Formica Bar Cart
Located in Hopewell, NJ
Funky midcentury bar cart comprised of wood, rattan and formica. This cart is designed to hold
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Rattan, Formica, Wood
Mid-Century Modern Lucite and Formica Wall Unit, circa 1980s
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Large modular Mid-Century Modern wall unit offering multiple flexible storage options. Impressive 1
Category
Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Shelves and Wall Cabinets
Materials
Formica, Lucite
Mid-Century Italian Mahogany and Formica End / Side Tables (Style of Gio Ponti)
By Gio Ponti
Located in Queens, NY
2 Italian Mid-Century (1950s) mahogany small table desk featuring a high slanted backrail, light
Category
20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 34.5 in W 31.5 in D 20 in
Italian mid-century modern Chairs in aqua green formica and metal, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid-century modern Chairs in aqua green formica and metal, 1960s
Set of 4 chairs with
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Metal
H 32.88 in W 18.9 in D 16.54 in
Italian mid-century modern chair in brown formica and black metal, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid-century modern chair in brown formica and black metal, 1960s
Set of six brown formica
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Metal
H 31.89 in W 15.36 in D 19.69 in
Italian mid-century modern blue formica and black metal desk, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid-century modern blue formica and black metal desk, 1960s.
Small desk, coming from a
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal
Milo Baughman Style Mid Century Burlwood Formica and Glass Coffee Table
By Milo Baughman
Located in Countryside, IL
Milo Baughman style Mid Century burl wood Formica and glass coffee table
Coffee table measures: 28
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Formica, Glass
Italian mid-century Chairs Paulista in yellow, red, black formica metal, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid-century modern Chairs Paulista in yellow, red, black formica and black tubolar metal
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Metal
H 32.09 in W 14.97 in D 17.72 in
Italian mid-century modern Dining table in wood, formica and iron, 1950s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid-century modern Dining table in wood, formica and iron, 1950s
Dining table with
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Iron
H 30.91 in W 99.22 in D 43.31 in
Mid Century White Steel Tanker Des w/ Formica Top by Globe-Wernicke
By Globe Wernicke
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Atomic age white painted steel tanker desk features a wood grain Formica top, 2 pull-out work
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Steel
Mid-Century Golden Aluminum and Formica Italian Bar Cart with Pictures, 1950s
Located in Roma, IT
Unique mid-century golden aluminium and formica vintage cart. This fantastic item was produced in
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Aluminum
H 24.02 in W 14.77 in D 22.84 in
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Kai Kristiansen Style Formica Top Cube Side Tables
By Kai Kristiansen
Located in East Freetown, MA
Pair of Kai Kristiansen style wooden cube side tables with black formica tops. Sturdy hand crafted
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 16 in W 18 in D 18 in
Italian Mid-Century Modern Bar Cart in wood Cherry and top Formica.
Located in Vigonza, Padua
Elegant Mid-Century Modern bar cart , age 1950s in wood cherry and top in formica with chromed
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Formica, Cherry
1950 Italian Mid Century Modernist Design Giulio Zappa Att. Blue Formica Table
Located in Brescia, IT
Formica Table
att. Giulio Zappa
Italy, 1950
Black enamel solid frame.
The metal frame has as a
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Console Tables
Materials
Formica
H 32.68 in W 43.71 in D 22.05 in
Hans C Andersen Danish Mid Century Modern Teak & Formica Snack Side Table - Pair
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Hans C Andersen Danish Mid Century Modern Teak & Formica Snack Side Tables - Pair. Item
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Laminate, Teak
H 16 in W 17.5 in D 17.5 in
Restored Mid-century 3/4 Pretzel Rattan & Formica "Grasshopper" Side Table, Pair
Located in Van Nuys, CA
This beautifully restored pair of 3/4 Pretzel Rattan & Formica "Grasshopper" Side Tables, both
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern End Tables
Materials
Rattan, Formica
H 19 in W 31 in D 15 in
Mid-Century forged Triangle shape Coffee Table - Formica Side Table 50s
Located in Bussiere Dunoise, Nouvel Aquitaine
Countries.
French Mid-Century forged Triangle shape Coffee Table from the 50s
Wonderful Triangle Formica
Category
Vintage 1940s French Mid-Century Modern Console Tables
Materials
Metal, Wrought Iron
H 19.69 in W 22.45 in D 22.45 in
Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin Formica Red Side Coffee Table 1960s Mid Century
By Milo Baughman
Located in London, GB
A slightly rectangular/near square side table with eye-catching coral red colour made from formica
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 20.08 in W 30.12 in D 23.82 in
Mid Century Credenza, Vintage, Laminate, Faux Wood, Oak, Formica, Sideboard.
Located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Mid Century Credenza, Vintage, Laminate, Faux Wood, Oak, Formica, Office, Sideboard, Storage
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Laminate, Wood, Oak
H 29 in W 70.13 in D 18 in
Italian mid-century Sideboard or bar cabinet in beige formica and wood, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid-century modern Sideboard or bar cabinet in beige formica and wood, 1960s
Sideboard or
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dry Bars
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 41.74 in W 25.2 in D 11.82 in
1950s Mid-Century Table with Drawer, Solid Beech, Top in Formica, Brass Feet
Located in Vigonza, Padua
Iconic Italian midcentury modern table with drawer in solid beech with the top in formica by
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Brass
H 31.5 in W 63 in D 31.89 in
80s Mid-Century Modern Black Formica Swivel Top Sculpture Stand Column Pedestal
Located in Miami, FL
and heavy stand for your favorite Mid-Century Modern sculptures or kitchen or electronic appliances
Category
Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Pedestals
Materials
Wood, Formica
H 24 in W 18.5 in D 15.5 in
Mid Century Wall Clock in Black Formica and Brass by ODO France, 1950s 60s
Located in San Benedetto Del Tronto, IT
structure is crafted from black Formica, a popular material of the 50s and 60s known for its durability and
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Clocks
Materials
Brass
H 6.7 in W 10.63 in D 1.58 in
Midcentury Brass and Formica Rolling Cart
Located in Germantown, MD
A midcentury Brass and Formica top Rolling Cart. Measures 25" in width, 13.5" in depth and stands
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Wood and Formica Bar Cart in the manner of Angelo Ostuni, Italy 1950
By Angelo Ostuni
Located in Catania, CT
This wood and formica serving trolley, produced in Italy in the 1950s, is in very good vintage
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Serving Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 27.56 in W 29.53 in D 17.72 in
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Stools Chairs Made of Glass, Formica and Brass, 1960s
Located in Rome, IT
Formica. The cow seat cover can be removed, such as the glass of the seat.
Measures: Height while seating
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Cement, Brass
H 25.6 in W 15.75 in D 14.97 in
Restored Mid-century Stacked Rattan Biomorphic Coffee Table w/ Formica Top
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
, embodying playful mid-century blending tropical style and vintage charm with modern comfort. The sleek
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Rattan, Mahogany
Restored Mid-century Large Square Rattan Coffee Table With Formica Top
Located in Van Nuys, CA
legs and a wood grain formica top with a rattan trim along the borders. it is meticulously refinished
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Rattan
20th Century Yellow Formica children's school desk with two leaves
Located in Miami, FL
Yellow formica and black metal desk, Italian modernism, ca. 1960. Small desk from a hotel room with
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Formica
Vintage Formica & Walnut Step Tables
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Absolutely fantastic pair of unique formica & walnut end tables. A funky two-tiered design is as
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Brass
1960s Teak, Formica, Wicker, and Brass Coffee Table - Mid-Century Elegance
Located in Manzano, IT
1960s Teak, Formica, Wicker, and Brass Coffee Table – Mid-Century Elegance
This 1960s coffee table
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Easels
Materials
Wood
H 18.12 in W 35.44 in D 17.72 in
Formica bar 1950’s , France
Located in PÉZENAS, FR
magnificent Formica bar from the 1950s which belonged to a great French singer "Claude Francois
Category
Mid-20th Century French Industrial Dry Bars
Materials
Aluminum
Letto Anni 60 Formica Impiallacciatura Mogano
By Non-Standard Furniture and Lighting
Located in Milano, IT
Letto matrimoniale in legno impiallacciato mogano e formica; un letto da personalizzare con la
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames
Materials
Formica, Mahogany
Italian Designer, Nightstands, Teak, Formica, Italy, 1950s
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of teak and white formica nightstands designed and produced in Italy, c. 1950s.
Overall
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Night Stands
Materials
Formica, Teak
5 pc. Mid Century Kitchen Set with Marbleized Formica Top and Pink Upholstery
By Arthur Umanoff, Maurizio Tempestini
Located in New York, NY
features a table with a marbleized black formica top, a squiggle wrought iron table skirt, and tubular
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Sets
Materials
Metal
H 29.5 in W 48 in D 30 in
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Mid Century Formica For Sale on 1stDibs
At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal mid century formica for your home. Frequently made of laminate, formica and wood, every mid century formica was constructed with great care. Find 1192 options for an antique or vintage mid century formica now, or shop our selection of 3 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. There are many kinds of the mid century formica you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 19th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. When you’re browsing for the right mid century formica, those designed in Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern and Art Deco styles are of considerable interest. You’ll likely find more than one mid century formica that is appealing in its simplicity, but Herman Miller, George Nelson and Cees Braakman produced versions that are worth a look.
How Much is a Mid Century Formica?
Prices for a mid century formica can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $165 and can go as high as $55,271, while the average can fetch as much as $2,162.
A Close Look at Mid-century Modern Furniture
Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living.
ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Emerged during the mid-20th century
- Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
- A heyday of innovation in postwar America
- Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe
CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
- A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
- Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
- Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
- Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
- Promotion of functionality
MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
- Charles and Ray Eames
- Eero Saarinen
- Milo Baughman
- Florence Knoll
- Harry Bertoia
- Isamu Noguchi
- George Nelson
- Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa
ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS
- Eames lounge chair
- Nelson daybed
- Florence Knoll sofa
- Egg chair
- Womb chair
- Noguchi coffee table
- Barcelona chair
VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS
The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.
Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.
Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer.
Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.
The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by 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 Formica
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.
- What is a mid-century sofa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
- What is mid-century artwork?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is mid century decor?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.
- What does mid century mean?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.
- What is a mid-century chair?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture 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. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.
- What is mid century furniture?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-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 jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-century is considered the middle of the century, however as it pertains to furniture and design, mid-century is an American design movement known for its modern style, construction and the Modernist movement. It is typically simple and clean lines without embellishments. Shop a range of mid-century modern designs on 1stDIbs.
- Is Mondrian mid century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.
- Is mid-century modern timeless?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024Yes, mid-century modern is timeless, in the opinion of many experts. Many characteristics of furniture and decorative accents produced in this style remain popular today. Among them are silhouettes marked by organic forms and clean lines, the promotion of functionality and the use of natural materials like teak, rosewood and oak and synthetic materials such as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of mid-century modern furniture.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps on 1stDibs.
- Is rattan mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
- Is Eames mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables, chairs, desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple.
Postwar architects and designers in the United States were animated by new ideas and new technology during the era of mid-century modernism. Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century furniture designs manufactured by the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller.
Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.
Knoll became a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces soon became desirable for the home. Similarly, Michigan’s Herman Miller is best known for its iconic mid-century modern furniture, and while the company focused on the office, people loved its designs for their homes, too.
Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs. - 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024The years between 1950 and 1960 are typically considered mid-century. Some people also include the 1970s in the definition. Remember that the term mid-century furniture refers to pieces produced during the middle of the 20th century. It is different from mid-century modern, the name for a furniture style that emerged primarily in the years following World War II and 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. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of mid-century furniture.
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