If you like mid century modern designs, you’re far from alone. These spaces are the most popular in the US, referring to the architecture, pieces, and nostalgic feel from the loosely defined middle of the 20th century. Usually, this means the 1930s to the 1960s, but whatever you’re vibing with is probably A-OK.
If you’re looking to redecorate, you can’t go wrong with a mid century modern living room. You’re probably asking yourself: how do I do that? Well, it’s easy and fun!
Read on for nine tips for decorating your living room to match your 20th-century vision.
Table of Contents
Have the Right Vibe
‘Vibe’ may sound like a broad word, but when you enter a room it’s something that you immediately and instinctively take note of. Here, we’re going to tell you the first things you need to do so people immediately appreciate your living room as a mid century modern space.
1. Have the Right Colors!
‘Mid-century modern’ as a broad enough term that you have a lot to work with in terms of a color palette. The general rule is that you want to have a simple look, whether you choose to use an orange color scheme or a teal one. You also want everything to match. Mid-century modern styles tend to stick with one color (plus black and white) or two.
If you want to learn the intricacies of this time period’s color palettes, click here for the five best mid century modern color schemes!
2. Have the Right Prints and Patterns!
One of the most defining features of the mid century modern style are the prints and patterns that you’ll find in your room. Generally, clean and simple lines are a core feature of mid century modern spaces, giving them that minimalist look that you covet.
You also will want to include organic and natural shapes in any decor that you have. Remember to adhere to your color scheme, but be sure not to have harsh lines or decorations- only soft ones.
3. Have the Right Trim and Carpeting!
Similarly to above, trim and carpeting should have organic shapes incorporated within them… if you incorporate shapes at all. Most mid century modern rooms tend to have solid color carpeting and trim to match the color scheme. The prints are on accessories like pillows.
You don’t want to make the room look too busy!
Have the Right Pieces
Of course, having mid century modern pieces is crucial to constructing a living room with this feel. Here, we’re going to tell you some of the most important furniture that you’ll need to give off that mid century feeling.
4. Have the Right Sofa!
Furniture like couches should be made up of simple lines and soft cushions. For example, this sofa is armless and sleek which lends perfectly to keeping things simple. You can have a design with soft lines on it as long as it fits the rest of the room’s scheme, or you can keep a solid color. It’s up to you!
5. Have the Right Chairs!
The rule for pretty much any decor is that your chairs should match whatever they’re paired with. If your chairs are part of a set with your sofa, they should use the same fabric, and if they’re part of a set with your coffee table, they need matching wood.
Mid century modern spaces are no different. However, if you have a design on your couch or table, consider getting some matching items that are a corresponding solid color.
6. Have the Right Coffee Table!
Simple coffee tables with tapered legs are a huge trend in mid century modern designs. Tapered legs give your pieces that soft, organic feel that you’re going for. This is a part of the trend of not being too harsh with your lining.
It’s also fun and easy to make a DIY coffee table that fits this scheme! Check it out!
7. Have the Right Decorations!
The decor is a key part of the complete picture of a space. Rugs, lamps, and decorative figurines should all match the color scheme of the room. Nothing should be harsh or include strong lines. Try organic sculptures or statues. Lamps with softly curved stands (and shades) are a must-have.
Have the Right Layout
Finally, it’s important to have the right layout for a mid century modern living room. After all, your space won’t look right if you just scatter all your pieces everywhere. Read on to learn more about structure and placement!
8. Have the Right Shapes!
As we’ve discussed above, mid century modern style relies a lot on natural shapes. Here, we’re going to get into the nitty-gritty of what that actually means.
Don’t consider anything that goes down into a sharp point or anything too hardened in its style or structure. You’re going for the opposite of that!
Amoebas and abstract art are perfect for your mid century modern space. Consider paintings that have curved brushstrokes and sculptures that have soft edges with no points.
9. Have the Right Placement!
Of course, you’re going to need to place your furniture, rugs, and decorations at the appropriate place in the room. In any space, having everything shoved off into one area is going to look bad. On the other hand, too much spacing will make your room look too empty and… neglected.
If you aren’t sure how to place things, look at images and see what others have done. This will make it easy to emulate what you like best!
Have the Right Mid Century Modern Living Room!
Constructing your dream living room can be tough, but it’s also fun and rewarding. Plus, when you remember to have the right vibe, pieces, and layout, creating the perfect room will be a much less daunting task.
Now that you know how to construct an awesome mid century modern living room, you’re probably interested in why this is the best option for your decor above all other alternatives. Click here to learn the top three advantages of having a mid-century modern feel in your home!
Keep cool and stay classy!
