Mid century modern is experiencing a spectacular comeback. From Saarinen tables to Eames chairs, sleek and serviceable pieces find their way into many a dining room. Even if your home is traditional, farmhouse, or even Victorian, a dash of mid-century style can be added for an unexpected touch.
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What Is Mid Century Modern Style?
This design movement began in the early 1930s and ended about 1965. It permeates all aspects of design, including industrial, graphic, interior, and architecture. Heavily influenced by the Bauhaus movement and early Modernism, it didn’t truly come into its own until the post-WWII years.
Some of the defining characteristics of mid century modern include:
- Function over form
- Organic shapes
- Simple, clean lines
- Designed for everybody, every day
- Colorful furniture and art pieces
While it’s possible to collect authentic mid century modern home decor items, there is also a thriving market for quality reproductions. These tend to be more affordable yet still well-made pieces. Don’t hesitate to use them in your home.
How Do I Create a Mid Century Dining Room?
Begin with identifying your statement pieces. In a dining room, this is typically the table and chairs, although it doesn’t have to be. You could have a fantastic buffet or credenza or even a light fixture that holds the center of attention.
You have numerous style options to consider for your mid century dining chairs. There are natural materials such as teak and woven fibers. Metals and manmade materials create interesting modern shapes and come in a wide variety of colors. When selecting your dining chairs, remember the following:
- Make sure they fit your space, both height and width.
- Choose a material that balances the other materials in the room.
- Sit on them before you buy. Are they comfortable?
Don’t worry about being too matchy-matchy with the table or other pieces. Mixing materials and designs is part of what makes mid century so appealing. You can have metal chairs, a lucite table, and a teak buffet and it will all be fabulous together.
What About Accent Pieces?
A true mid century dining room will have some art on the walls. Find a big, bold canvas with pops of color. Or arrange a selection of smaller works with a minimalist style and palette. Don’t forget large clocks and metal wall sculptures. They were also very popular in the ’50s and ’60s and still look great today.
Finish off your dining room with the perfect flooring. There are numerous options available for mid century flooring. Hardwoods, ceramic tile, carpet, and concrete are all perfectly acceptable. If your floor has a neutral color, layer a rug on top with bright, geometric designs. Choose something that is a complementary backdrop for the table and chairs.
Ready To Take the Plunge?
If a bold dive into the deep end of the mid century pool is too much right now, start with one chair, one piece of art, or one lighting fixture. Enjoy how that one piece enlivens your dining room. Then when you’re ready, try a table or chairs. Poly & Bark is here to help you design the perfect space.
