Charles Eames, one of the most influential furniture designers of the twentieth century, once said, “The details are not the details. They make the design.” This couldn’t be truer of Mid-Century Modern, a post-war design movement that juxtaposed common industrial goods—think steel and plastic—with organic forms to create objects and interiors of uncommon beauty.
Today, design inspired by Mid-Century Modern remains incredibly popular. It’s an aesthetic known for simple, clean lines, bold pops of pattern and color, and understated sophistication. And while it’s a look that can distinguish your entire home, it’s especially great for small spaces, like your bedroom. Check out these six great tips for using the Mid-Century Modern style to create a relaxing yet refined bedroom.
Start with a Neutral Palette
Design is all about the details. So start by creating a neutral backdrop that will let those details do the heavy aesthetic lifting. In many mid-century-inspired spaces, you’ll find simple white walls and natural wood flooring. For accent colors, explore earth tones like brown, rust, and green, along with primary colors of red, blue, and yellow. These hues are great for pillows, art, and rugs.
Warm It Up with Wood
Just because the mid-century style tends toward minimalism doesn’t mean that your bedroom needs to feel stark and cold. Natural and unstained woods were integral to the Mid-Century Modern movement. Choosing furniture and finishes that celebrate the beauty and texture of wood will warm up your space—especially when you contrast them with modern industrial materials.
Layer in Organic Forms
In the same way that wood adds warmth to mid-century inspired spaces, so do curved lines, rounded shapes, and asymmetry. The designers of the era often embraced the sculptural forms reminiscent of nature or even the human body. You can often find lamps, chairs, tables, and artwork that feature these organic shapes. And be sure to look for designs that are sleek and free of unnecessary ornamentation.
Choose Bold, Graphic Patterns
Many textile designers of the era—Alexander Girard and Ray Eames, to name a few—created materials with bold geometric and organic patterns. Curves, boomerangs, kidneys, and starbursts were prevalent in furniture, art, pillows, rugs, and even wallpaper. For your bedroom, don’t be afraid to mix and match colors and patterns. This is your chance to add personality and even a little whimsy to your space.
Hunt for Furniture with Tapered Legs
Enliven your bedroom (and boost your oxygen intake) by adding plenty of plants. Natural greenery has soothing properties and enhances the vibrancy of an interior. Succulents were a favorite of mid-century designers. But if you’re low on light, don’t worry. Many varieties of Ferns, African Violets, and Ivy thrive in shady spots.
Create an Indoor Jungle
In the same way that wood adds warmth to mid-century inspired spaces, so do curved lines, rounded shapes, and asymmetry. The designers of the era often embraced the sculptural forms reminiscent of nature or even the human body. You can often find lamps, chairs, tables, and artwork that feature these organic shapes. And be sure to look for designs that are sleek and free of unnecessary ornamentation.
Add Mid-Century Refinement to Your Bedroom
To transform your bedroom into a mid-century masterpiece, carefully curate furniture that celebrates the refined, minimal aesthetic of the period. Flexsteel can help. We offer bedroom furniture collections designed with the signature mid-century simplicity and beautiful wood. Choose the LUDWIG COLLECTION, which captures the Mid-Century Modern spirit with splayed, tapered legs, warm walnut finishes, simple brass hardware, and clean lines. Or go for relaxed refinement with the COLOGNE COLLECTION, a suite of bedroom furnishings in dark oak with antiqued gold accents. Ready to upgrade your entire home? Explore our diverse portfolio of contemporary styled seating that’s bult to last.
