MCM decor caught your eye? If you’re new to Mid Century Modern style or just looking to infuse your spaces with more of the vibe, there are a few key ways to deliver the look that don’t require a major overhaul. With a few thoughtful updates and strategic swaps, you can bring that clean, timeless look into your home.
1. Add one amazing focal piece
Even if you can’t afford to give your entire house a Mid Century Modern update, you might be able to afford one MCM furnishing. If so, make it a focal piece like a sofa, some chairs, or a table. A recognizable furnishing like the Barcelona chairs by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich (pictured above) is one example. Some other ideas would be an Eames chair or a kidney bean table.
2. Use statement the lighting
Just switching out the lights in your house can give it a more nostalgic, mid century ambiance. Choose warm light temperatures, soft, indirect lighting, and a combination of floor lamps, table lamps, and pendant lights. Even a single piece like the geometric floor lamp pictured above can make a dramatic impact on a space, bringing MCM warmth to a room while doubling as an item of retro-style décor.
3. Get graphic with your walls
Wall art instantly draws the eye, fills unwanted white space, and sets the tone for a room. It can also help you start bringing MCM colors into your home. Whether you purchase a classic print or you add a decorative embellishment like these breeze block style metal wall tiles, you don’t have to spend a lot to transform a room.
4. Use pillows that pop
The quickest way to makeover a space with instant mod style? Add some pillows that bear the signature modern patterns and bold colors Mid Century Modernism is known for. Can’t afford to get a new set of bedding? Even just getting some MCM-style pillows for your bed, sofa, or patio furniture can add a touch of mid century charm.
5. Pay attention to your legs
The furniture of the era innovated material and shapes and pushed the boundaries of traditional silhouettes. Cone-shaped or hairpin legs are emblematic of the style and are a quick way to amp up the mod factor. If you don’t want to replace your existing furniture, you can refresh your look simply by replacing the legs on existing pieces. Tapering legs and a low profile are two of the classic features that create the MCM look.
6. Move toward a mid century color scheme
When you are shopping for furniture or décor, try to aim toward creating a cohesive MCM color scheme over time. MCM color palettes are dominated by warm, earthy tones inspired by natural materials like wood, and typically include hues that are muted but inviting. Bold pops of colors mimic the art of the era. Do the colors feel nostalgic and vintage tinged? Then they’re probably the right ones.
7. Make sure your accents are artful
With an emphasis on form following function and a philosophy that everything adds to the whole, your decorative elements should be discerningly chosen. Mod interiors are intentional and not cluttered so choose your pieces knowing that every item should add something specific to the space. Artwork like the orange slices print in the acrylic shadow box frame above can look great on a shelf or table. Glassware or sculptures are other ideas for simple but transformative MCM décor.
If you enjoyed this post, you may also like A Mod Michigan Kitchen Makeover in Three Parts and A 1960s California Kitchen Makeover.
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