Skip to main content

Mid Century Modern Bookshelves

to
8
50
48
97
1
88
4
97
1
78
18
1
22
23
13
3
80
39
32
27
13
64
25
25
24
24
98
98
98
9
9
3
3
2
Sort By
Mid Century MODERN BOOKCASES / BOOKSHELVES, a Pair
Located in Weehawken, NJ
These small scale Mid Century Modern walnut bookcases circa 1960's offer a generous layout for all
Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Walnut

Blond Walnut Mid-Century Bookcase With Adjustable Bookshelves
Located in Pasadena, CA
This classic mid-century modern bookshelf, crafted from blond walnut veneer, showcases a timeless
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Walnut

Mid-Century Modern Dutch Metal Minimalist Black Bookshelve, circa 1960
Located in Barcelona, ES
Minimalist black metal bookshelves. By unknown manufacturer, Netherlands, circa 1960. In
Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Minimalist Shelves and Wall Cabinets

Materials

Metal

A set of Mid-Century teak bookshelves with five shelves
Located in London, GB
A set of Mid-Century teak bookshelves with five shelves, the upper shelf is set back slightly.
Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Teak

Scandinavian Modern Shelving – Danish Bookshelves, 1960s Vintage Set
Located in Stockholm, SE
Set of eight shelves, anonymous, Denmark. 1960s. Oregon Pine. Stackable. Measures: 4x small H: 18 cm / 7" W: 54 cm / 21 1/4" D: 27 cm / 10 1/2" 2x medium H: 27 cm / 10...
Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Pine

Freestanding Wall unit, Bookshelves, Roomdivider, Midcentury Modern, 1950s
By Jos De Mey, Van den Berghe-Pauvers 1
Located in Antwerp, BE
Modular wall unit or room divider designed by Jos De Mey for Van den Berghe-Pauvers, Ghent Belgium. 1958. Four black metal mounted on oblique, four tapering legs, brass stretchers ad...
Category

Vintage 1950s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Pair of Pagoda Bamboo Shape Bookshelves .
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of Pagoda bamboo shape bookshelves. 6 glass shelves. Distressed look , sturdy and stable .
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Steel

Unique stainless steel bookshelves, Anonymous French production from the 80s
Located in MARSEILLE, FR
Very rare anonymous bookshelves designed and made in North of France, Limoges, circa 1980. This
Category

Vintage 1980s French Mid-Century Modern Shelves and Wall Cabinets

Materials

Stainless Steel

Italian Teak, Black Metal and Brass Midcentury Bookshelves Roomdivider
By Franco Albini and Franca Helg, Poggi
Located in Varese, Lombardia
This bookshelves was produced in Italy by SELEX in the 1960s. Thanks to its adjustable height
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Brass, Metal

Expertly Restored - Edward J. Wormley Night Stands with Bookshelves for Dunbar
By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Night Stands

Materials

Walnut

1960s Modular MCM Walnut Wall Unit with Drop Down Desk Bookshelves- 5 Pieces
By Poul Cadovius
Located in Madison, WI
them to stand. Details: Dimensions: 36"W × 18"D × 30"H Styles: Mid-Century Modern Does it
Category

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Iron

20th Century Italian Pair of Walnut Shelves, Rosewood Cabinets by Vittorio Dassi
By Vittorio Dassi
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A dark-brown, vintage Mid-Century modern Italian pair of slim bookshelves with a top rack made of
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Metal, Brass

Poul Cadovius Bookshelves Butterflies, Royal Metal Bookshelves Red, Blue Yellow
By Poul Cadovius, Royal System
Located in LA Arnhem, NL
Poul Cadovius bookshelves butterflies. A set of three metal bookshelves. The butterflies are flying
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Sheet Metal

Jorge Zalszupin Jacaranda Componivel Bookshelves, Brazil, 1950s
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in Dubai, AE
Jorge Zalszupin bookshelves - Brazil, 1950s Componivel series Jacaranda wood, painted wood.
Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Jacaranda

9 Midcentury Floating Tricolor Metal Wall Bookshelves Matégot for Artimeta
By Artimeta, Mathieu Matégot
Located in Brussels, Ixelles
Rare and large set of eight tricolor metal shelving units from Mathieu Mate´got for Artimeta. Planks come in black/ yellow/ red. Dimensions in cm: 19.5 x 50 x 15 cm.
Category

Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Modern Modular Oak Bookshelves
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Oak

Mid-Century Modern Modular Oak & Glass Bookshelves
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Mid-Century Modern Modular Oak & Glass Bookshelves
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Glass, Oak

Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Bookshelves in Rosewwod
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Mid-Century Modern Danish bookcase in rosewood. steel base. 3 white laminate shelves
Category

Vintage 1960s Scandinavian Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood

Expertly Restored - Mid-Century Modern Modular Oak Bookshelves System
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Oak

Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Bookshelve Vitrine by Borge Mogensen
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian bookshelve vitrine in teak by Borge Mogensen. 2 glass sliding doors
Category

Vintage 1950s Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Danish Modern Teak Bookshelves
Located in San Antonio, TX
Danish modern teak bookshelves sold as a set or separately, each feature five shelves and a drawer
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Danish Modern Teak Bookshelves
Danish Modern Teak Bookshelves
H 67.5 in W 34 in D 11.5 in
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Walnut Bookshelves Nightstands End Tables Bookcases
Located in West Hartford, CT
Matching pair of Mid-Century Modern walnut nightstand bookshelves. Multipurpose with great scale
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern End Tables

Materials

Walnut

Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Bookshelves in Teak by Erik Buch
By Erik Buch
Located in Courbevoie, FR
Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian bookshelves in teak by Erik Buch. Scandinavian teak bookcase with 1
Category

Vintage 1960s Scandinavian Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Pair of Mid-Century Modern Brass and Glass Multi Tiered Étagère Bookshelves
Located in Hopewell, NJ
Pair of very stylish Mid-Century Modern brass and glass 3-tiered étagères having shelves with inset
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Hans Wegner Danish Teak Bookshelves Wall Unit with Desk 1960s
By Hans J. Wegner
Located in Keego Harbor, MI
For your consideration is an incredible pair of adjustable bookshelves with desk compartment, made
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Teak

1970s Modern Stair Step Bookshelves
Located in Denton, TX
, Top shelf 10.25" deep by 8.1/8" high Mid shelf 14.1/8" deep by 10.1/8 high bottom shelf in the
Category

Late 20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Oak

1970s Modern Stair Step Bookshelves
1970s Modern Stair Step Bookshelves
H 22.75 in W 97.5 in D 17.63 in
Pair Mid century Paul McCobb Triple Bookshelves #1516 Walnut Finish Iron Base
By Planner Group, Paul McCobb
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
Pair of vintage midcentury Paul McCobb triple high bookcases bookshelves #1516 original walnut
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Iron

Mid Century Danish Modular Teak Wall System Poul Cadovius Cado Bookshelves Desk
By Poul Cadovius
Located in Norwich, GB
Vintage Danish teak modular wall shelving bookcase/desk designed by Poul Cadovius. Earlier example. Circa late 1950’s. *Free delivery for all areas in mainland England & Wales only....
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Italian Bookshelves, circa 1950
Located in Brussels, BE
Italian bookshelves, circa 1950.
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Wood

Italian Bookshelves, circa 1950
Italian Bookshelves, circa 1950
H 72.84 in W 51.19 in D 12.01 in
Pair Vintage Office Bookshelves
Located in Trenton, NJ
classic appeal and timeless design of mid-century danish furniture. These bookcases, in a rich vintage
Category

Late 20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood, Oak

Pair Vintage Office Bookshelves
Pair Vintage Office Bookshelves
H 51 in W 36 in D 10.5 in
Newly Refinished - Pair of Danish Modern Teak Mini Adjustable Bookshelves
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Expertly Refinished With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage designs that can ...
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Pair of Vintage European Narrow Bookshelves
Located in Locust Valley, NY
A super chic pair of vintage European narrow wood bookshelves with a gorgeous wood crown moulding
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood

Italian Design Bookshelves in Solid Elm
Located in Antwerp, BE
Italian design; Bookshelves; Bookcases; Shelves; Solid Elm; Mid Century An elegant Italian
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Elm

Italian Design Bookshelves in Solid Elm
Italian Design Bookshelves in Solid Elm
H 78.75 in W 39.38 in D 16.15 in
Midcentury Parchment and Rosewood Bookshelves
Located in Queens, NY
Pair of midcentury Italian, circa 1970 4 shelf étagères / bookcases with parchment veneer & rosewood shelf interior having rounded top corners & a rectangular base.
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood, Parchment Paper

Bookshelves by Paolo Deganello , circa 1981
By Paolo Deganello
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Rare M0 9 bookcase designed by Paolo Denagello in the 1980s as part of the "L'Arbre Fleuri" collection. It is characterized by the use of three different wood species: a beech venee...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Post-Modern Bookcases

Materials

Metal

Bookshelves by Paolo Deganello , circa 1981
Bookshelves by Paolo Deganello , circa 1981
H 92.52 in W 47.25 in D 12.6 in
Tall Vintage Bookshelves With Drop Front Cabinet & Drawers
By Drexel
Located in Trenton, NJ
of their own. This Pair of Tall Mid-Century Modern style Bookshelves offer the perfect blend of
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Walnut

Mid-Century Modern Teak Secretary Bookcase, Danish, ca. 1960
Located in Banner Elk, NC
Mid-Century Modern Teak Bookcase, with three bookshelves, above a solid teak, fitted desk, with two
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Max Bookshelves by Ettore Sottsass, Memphis circa 1987
By Ettore Sottsass
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
The Max bookcase by Ettore Sottsass, created by the famous Italian designer, is an iconic piece that reflects his distinct aesthetic. Designed in the 1980s, this bookcase is characte...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Post-Modern Bookcases

Materials

Laminate, Plexiglass, Wood

Oscar Desk-Bookshelves by Didier Rozaffy, France circa 1950
By Didier Rozaffy
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Library-desk dating from the 1950s, by Didier Rozaffy for the French manufacturing company Oscar, libraries, and modular furniture. At that time, Oscar furniture was innovative and ...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass, Wood

Beautiful Freestanding Danish Wall Unit with Cupboards and Bookshelves
Located in Oirlo, LI
Vintage design teak wall unit of high quality from the 60s with beautiful handles. The cabinet is Danish, but the designer is unknown to us. The handles are clearly made with a...
Category

Vintage 1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Teak

Italian Teak, Black Metal and Brass Midcentury Bookshelves Roomdivider
By Poggi, Franco Albini and Franca Helg
Located in Varese, Lombardia
This bookshelves was produced in Italy in the 1950s. Thanks to its adjustable height (285-310 cm
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Brass, Metal

Three Black and White Modernist Metal Bookshelves, Netherlands 1960s
By Friso Kramer, Tomado
Located in bergen op zoom, NL
An easy to assemble and adjustable metal book shelving system from the 1960's The black enamelled uprights combined with the white metal shelves give these shelvings a minimal moder...
Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Tomado Style 2 Section Industrial Metal Wall Mount Bookshelves
By Tomado
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Midcentury two section industrial Tomado style shelving wall unit with multicolored (black, bone, red and brown) enameled sheet metal shelves and black enameled wire risers. In very ...
Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Midcentury Faux Bamboo Nightstands Cabinets with Bookshelves, 4 Pieces
Located in West Hartford, CT
Vintage faux bamboo nightstands, cabinets an off white finish. Both have separate bookcase or top cabinet with shelves that rest on bottom piece. Measures: Height with top piece is 8...
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Faux Bamboo

Henry Link Wicker and Glass Illuminated Bookshelves Etagere Etegere
Located in West Hartford, CT
Henry Link wicker wrapped etagere with glass shelves on top. Has light at top to illuminate your collectibles from above. See our other listings for two more Henry Link etageres.
Category

Vintage 1980s Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Wicker, Glass, Wood

Set of 2 Metal 'Butterfly' Bookshelves by Poul Cadovius, Denmark, 1960s
By Poul Cadovius
Located in Steenwijk, NL
This is a beautiful and bright colored set of rare metal 'Butterfly' bookshelves by Poul Cadovius
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Shelves and Wall Cabinets

Materials

Metal

Vittorio Introini Three P700 Bookshelves for Saporiti, Proposal Series, 1969
By Saporiti, Vittorio Introini
Located in Milan, IT
These three model P700 bookshelves were designed by Vittorio Introini for Saportiti's Proposal
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Metal, Steel

Pair of Midcentury Paul McCobb Triple Bookshelves #1516 Maple Walnut Finish
By Paul McCobb, Planner Group
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
Pair of vintage midcentury Paul McCobb triple high bookcases bookshelves #1516 original walnut
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Maple

Finn Juhl Scandinavian Teak Brass Bookshelves for Bovirke, Denmark 1950s
By Finn Juhl, Bovirke
Located in Reggio Emilia, IT
Scandinavian teak bookcase shelves or panel system designed by Finn Juhl and produced by Bovirke composed of 10 shelves and 1 container with sliding doors, both the shelves and the c...
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Stunning & Rare Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mahogany & Leather Desk w Bookshelves
By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture
Located in Hudson, NY
Expertly restored mahogany desk designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar. Stamp present on underside of top drawer. Mahogany construction with leather wrapped base. Absolutely stunning ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Leather, Mahogany

Midcentury Campaign Style Dresser, Desk and Bookshelves Unit 3-Piece Set
Located in West Hartford, CT
Campaign style 3-peice set includes a six-drawer dresser, a desk with faux bamboo and a bookshelf. All are separate not attached and can be reconfigured. For example, use dresser sep...
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Faux Bamboo, Wood

Pair of Bookshelves in Rosewood, Shelves and Modules with Drawers, Italy, 1950
Located in Madrid, ES
Pair of shelves in solid rosewood with shelves. Lower modules with drawers. Front feet with conical shape topped in brass detail.
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Brass

Vintage Danish Modern Teak Bookcases by Carlo Jensen for Poul Hundevad - Pair
By Poul Hundevad, Carlo Jensen
Located in Chicago, IL
of Mid Century Modern adjustable teak tall bookcases/bookshelves units by Carlo Jensen for Poul
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Vintage Danish Teak Bookcase by Clausen & Søn, 1960s
By Clausen & Søn
Located in Asaa, DK
together as one. Loads of storage space in this Classic Danish Mid-Century Modern bookcase. Depth of
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Mid Century Danish Modern Bookcases/Bookshelves - Set of 4
By Carlo Jensen, Poul Hundevad
Located in Chicago, IL
Mid Century Danish Modern Bookcases/Bookshelves - Set of 4 Enhance your living space with this set
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Post-Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Expertly Restored - Mid-Century Modern Modular Credenza / Bookshelves System
Located in Los Angeles, CA
________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Wood, Oak

Mid Century Brass and Burlwood Etagere Bookshelves
Located in Countryside, IL
Mid Century Brass and Burlwood Etagere Bookshelves Bookshelf measures: 32 wide x 16.5 deep x
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Standing Bookshelves by Jan van der Togt for Tomado, 1960s
By Jan Van Der Togt, Tomado
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Wonderful set of five Mid-Century Modern three section standing bookshelves. Design by Jan van der
Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Pair of Mid-Century Chrome, Brass and Glass Etagere Bookshelves
Located in Shippensburg, PA
PAIR OF MID-CENTURY CHROME, BRASS AND GLASS ETAGERE BOOKSHELVES In the manner of Maison Jansen
Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Brass, Chrome

Beaver & Tapley Penguin Bookshelves, Stunning Pair of These Mid-Century Classics
By Beaver and Tapley
Located in London, GB
A pair of Beaver and Tapley 'Penguin Bookshelf' units, designed 1956 Classic 1950's shelf units, designed in collaboration with Penguin Books, and dimensioned to fit the books per...
Category

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood

  • 1
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Mid Century Modern Bookshelves", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Mid Century Modern Bookshelves For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of mid century modern bookshelves is available at 1stDibs. The range of distinct mid century modern bookshelves — often made from wood, metal and hardwood — can elevate any home. There are all kinds of mid century modern bookshelves available, from those produced as long ago as the 20th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. There are many kinds of mid century modern bookshelves to choose from, but at 1stDibs, Mid-Century Modern and Scandinavian Modern mid century modern bookshelves are of considerable interest. There have been many well-made mid century modern bookshelves over the years, but those made by Arthur Milani-Wallis, Beaver and Tapley and Chapo Creation are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much are Mid Century Modern Bookshelves?

Mid century modern bookshelves can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $2,874, while the lowest priced sells for $375 and the highest can go for as much as $58,000.

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

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

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 Bookshelves
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

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

  • 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.
  • 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.

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

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