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8 Midcentury Modern Decor & Style Ideas

What is midcentury design?
"Midcentury modern" itself is a difficult term to define. It broadly describes architecture, furniture, and graphic design from the middle of the 20th century (roughly 1933 to 1965, though some would argue the period is specifically limited to 1947 to 1957).
Although sleek and timeless, the mid-century style can quickly monopolize a room (or make it appear dated) if it isn’t executed with care. The key to making the aesthetic look decidedly non–Brady Bunch is understanding its history and creating an effortlessly modern mix. New to the style but love the look? Learn all about it and get tips from the experts on how to add a Mad Men vibe to your space with midcentury-modern decor.
The movement spanned from about 1933 to 1965 and included architecture as well as industrial, interior, and graphic design. Designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, Harry Bertoia, Arne Jacobsen, and George Nelson created iconic furniture and lighting that are still highly coveted. The architectural style, seen in the work of talents such as Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler, is known for its use of expanses of glass, flat planes, and a strong connection to nature.
How to spot a mid-century modern house
Here are some of the main features that characterise the mid-century modern house:
  • Large glass panel walls;
  • Exposed structural support, like ceiling beams or cross walls;
  • Juxtaposition of wood and stone both indoors and outdoors;
  • Wood ceilings;
  • Storage concealed behind sliding doors or integrated closets;
  • Open tread staircases;
  • Decorative cement blocs or metal lattices that are used as fences or dividers
  • Panels or open shelving used to divide indoor spaces.
Mid-century modern houses In Montreal
We find many mid century modern homes in the suburbs and the outskirts of the city. The most popular style is the sloped-roof bungalow and split-level, but there are also some very interesting designs hidden across the city. Some of the best places to see mid-century architecture in all its glory is Town of Mount-Royal, Ahuntsic, Cartierville and some parts of Westmount Outremont and Candiac.
What are the inspirations behind midcentury design?
The style grew out of early-20th-century Modernism, including the International and Bauhaus movements. Midcentury really took hold after World War II, thanks to new technologies and materials, and a newfound prosperity. The migration to urban areas, and thus smaller living spaces, also influenced the designs of the era.
What are the characteristics of midcentury design?
  • Organic influences
  • Simple forms
  • Emphasis on function
  • Democratic (in other words, designed for everybody)
What colors work well with midcentury furniture?
The traditional midcentury palette ranged from bright hues in the 1950s to earthy colors in the 1960s, so the style works with a many different shades. Not ready for pops of red or olive upholstery? “Muted colors and pastels work really well for us,” Daniel and Meghan inform AD.“Especially pale pink. Neutrals never go out of style.”
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Midcentury homes
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Av. Bayard
Candiac J5R

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Av. des Sommets
Montreal

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