Monday Market Update: Midcentury Modern Meets Color

MCM. It’s nearly impossible to flip through a design magazine or walk through a furniture store without seeing midcentury modern design in place. In this week’s Monday Market Update we wanted to summarize what MCM looks like and where it came from and share some HGTV tips on how midcentury modern can look clean without being boring! 

Midcentury modern is a post WWII design trend defined by clean lines, functional materials and geometric shapes. Designers were eager to utilize newly developed technology that allowed for more mass production, and create what individuals and families wanted in their lifestyles in that era (more to use, less for show). The Spruce states that this design movement dominated from 1945-1969; key characteristics are:

- Furnishings that focus on function over style

- Less frills, more simple curves and lines

- Mixed materials – metal, glass, vinyl

- Wood with an emphasis on teak, rosewood and oak

The expression that ‘less can be more’ holds true in implementing MCM design. While this style is sometimes overgeneralized as simplistic and overly practical, the reality is that midcentury modern is all about intentional details. All pieces should have a use – in contrast to the days when an ornate living room chair was saved for a special occasion or holiday use.

While brown tones are often apparent in the wood elements, color can and should be used! Ideal modern ways to incorporate color are to use a bright accent wall, a geometric and multi-colored area rug, a ‘playful’ accessory such as a yellow lamp or blue office chair – or even turning a staircase into a focal point with a bright hued banister. 

You can find a lot of resources on what to do to incorporate MCM design into your home; that being said, designers also advocate what NOT to do! Some common ‘do not do’ advice for this design trend is: 1) don’t forget about mirrors – they are useful and a great way to add geometric shapes and reflect light, 2) don’t over-accessorize; you can get so into choosing design elements that you go overboard and end up sinking your minimalist MCM ship and 3) don’t compromise what you love – if something does not fit into the midcentury modern box but it speaks to your personal style, use it.

Midcentury design can provide a great foundation but does not need to be your definition. Your home should be a reflection of all that you love – so don’t be afraid to show it! 

Happy decorating,

Bobbi

Resources Used: Midcentury Modern Designs That Aren’t Afraid of Color, What Is Midcentury Modern Style? Here's What You Should Know, 10 design dos and don'ts for a timeless mid-century modern home

Bobbi Decker
DRE#00607999

Broker Associate, Bobbi Decker & Associates
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www.bobbidecker.com
NAR Instructor….“Designations Create Distinctions”
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