Characteristics of Mid-century modern

Characteristics of Mid-century modern

This style emphasized creating structures with ample windows and open floor plans, with the intention of opening up interior spaces and bringing the outdoors in. Many Mid-century modern or MCM houses utilized then-groundbreaking post and beam architectural design that eliminated bulky support walls in favor of walls seemingly made of glass. Function was as important as form in Mid-century designs, with an emphasis placed on targeting the needs of the average American family.

characterized by clean, simple lines and honest use of materials, and it generally does not include decorative embellishments.

Exterior Perspective

Large windows

Large windows allow more sunlight to permeate the house, maximizing natural light all year round. Some designers even go to the extent of replacing concrete walls with glass to achieve the window effect.

Living Area

Flat wooden planks

Vaulted ceilings with wooden beams were common in mid-century homes of the 60s. 

To replicate the MCM accent ceiling, designers incorporate wooden-planks and exposed beams onto ceilings in today’s apartments. Wood flooring is also used in MCM homes for an increased sense of visual continuity from the floor to the ceiling.

Master Bedroom 

Clean lines

Flat surfaces and clean lines are accents of MCM design principles. 

On the other hand, highly patterned accessories or highly ornate furnishings are avoided. 

The focus is on the purity and simplicity of natural shapes and forms.

Home-schooling room

Practical furniture

Decorations and furniture are placed purposefully. Anything excessive is removed to preserve the minimalistic nature of the MCM style.

Furniture in the MCM style focuses on not only the function but also the choice of material. While wood is most common in MCM, designers also use manmade materials such as nylon, acrylic, or fabric.

Tapered legs furniture

A common characteristic of MCM furniture is that the legs are tapered and short. 

Tapered legs refer to the gradual thinning as legs reach closer to the ground. The rounded tapered legs of MCM furniture create an elegant yet strong foundation that can support its surface top. Designers use the tapered legs technique more often as a way to reduce the visual impact that furniture has on a room. The intention is to have the floor space be seen as much as possible.

Furniture

Living Area Furniture

Minimal patterns

Patterns and prints on furniture are used sparingly.

For instance, woodgrain finish is often used by designers as a form of natural pattern and texture on MCM furniture. Alternatively, simple shapes like geometric outlines or figures are the commonly adorned patterns on MCM decors. There’s no excessive ornamentation and decoration in MCM style.

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