Mid-Century Modern Apartment Design Tips

Transform your apartment into a Mid-Century Modern oasis with expert styling tips.
Gain insights from seasoned interior design professionals on creating a chic and timeless aesthetic.
Discover stylish tips and tricks to elevate your space and achieve Mid-Century Modern sophistication.

Considering styling your home in the iconic mid-century modern fashion? Seek insights from design and furniture experts as they offer guidance, ensuring a harmonious fusion of timeless aesthetics and contemporary elements.

Delve into the nuances of crafting a mid-century modern sanctuary, from harmonizing neutrals with vibrant hues to curating a collection of complementary accents. Whether you're residing in a compact New York apartment or settling into a spacious open-concept apartment in LA, this ApartmentGuide article provides invaluable tips to seamlessly incorporate this classic design ethos into your living space, catering to your needs every step of the way.

1. Early vs late mid-century modern

"The first thing you need to decide on is whether you are going for “early” mid-century which encompasses more of the teak and walnut style furniture and the somewhat muted color palettes, or opting for the late 60s and early 70s aesthetic which includes glass, chrome, plastics, and more vibrant color pops,” mentions Darren Fishman from Desert Society, a California based advertising and design agency.

Early mid-century modern design, prevalent from the 1930s to the 1950s, is characterized by clean lines, organic forms, and minimal ornamentation, often featuring natural materials like wood and leather. In contrast, Late mid-century modern, emerging in the 1960s and extending into the 1970s, embraced bolder colors, experimental shapes, and futuristic influences while still prioritizing functionality and simplicity in design.

2. Research the style

Inspiring mid-century enthusiast and designer, Patricia Kline, suggests, “One of the first steps when contemplating mid-century modern design for your home interior is to think about which version of mid-century modern you prefer. There is what I call ‘Martini Modern,’ with its bright pops of color, shag carpeting, and patterned wall coverings, evoking a 1970s vibe. Alternatively, you may favor ‘Desert Modern,’ characterized by neutral tones, industrial materials, and clean lines. Perhaps you're drawn to a ‘Classic Modern’ look, featuring furniture, lighting, and artwork from renowned mid-century designers like Ray and Charles Eames, George Nelson, or Florence Knoll. Most likely, it's a combination of styles, but giving some thought to your dominant style is essential.

Next, do your research. Atomic Ranch Magazine is a reliable source, and their interior design books, such as the recent "Remodeled Marvels" by Atomic Ranch editor Jickie Torres, will have you marking up almost every page with post-it notes. Scroll through Instagram and search using the hashtag #midcenturymodern for inspiration.”

Researching and delving into literature on mid-century modern design and online resources can provide invaluable insights and inspiration, helping you envision and refine your desired aesthetic.

3. Personalize your space

Personalizing your space involves infusing it with elements that reflect your personality, interests, and experiences, whether through curated collections, cherished mementos, or DIY projects. By adding unique touches and incorporating items that hold sentimental value, you can transform your mid-century modern home into a truly personalized sanctuary that resonates with you.

5. Know your MCM styles and pieces

When selecting furniture or accessories for your home, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of their design, quality, and functionality to ensure they harmonize seamlessly with your space and serve their intended purpose effectively. “My singular advice for sourcing MCM furniture is misleading hashtags – #Eames, #MCM – do some self-guided research and understand who those people are and what they design,” shares Kurt Cyr from Palm Springs Mod Squad. Kurt offers personalized tours of Palm Springs in the Mod Squad van, sharing captivating stories of Hollywood and architecture.

“Knowledge is power and information is key. Know what you are looking at and the rest will fall into place. Shop where MCM is not appreciated and that is where you will find the deals. MCM for me is the post-WWII boom years – others will argue, but to be safe those 20 post-WWII years will be in the proper period 1945-1965.

MCM has many different faces – the clean, sleek lines of the machine age future with furniture by Eero Saarinen, Warren Platner, Florence Knoll. But also, kitschy items like boomerangs, atomic starbursts and liberal doses of tiki. Some most overlooked MCM items – because they are more traditional – are the hand-blocked textiles and wallpapers by the Folly Cove Designers in Massachusetts. They date from 1943-1962. They have a very Americana feel that was sweeping the nation with pride having just won the war. These handmade, well-designed items celebrated the tenacity and strength of character and optimism that would be the hallmark for the post-war years.”

6. Mix up your look

Don't hesitate to blend various design styles from different eras and genres, as eclectic combinations can often result in unique and visually compelling interiors. Richard Ives, co-founder of Pilgrim New York, who sources incredible, one-off vintage designer pieces from all around the world, shares, “Look for resale and vintage finds that may need reupholstering or minor touch-ups in the long run, it’ll save you a lot of money if you DIY. Don’t be afraid to mix new modern pieces with mid-century or Danish designs, the goal is to create a feeling, not a museum replica.

Mixing in organic elements with mid-century furniture creates a sense of cohesion and helps soften the look which may get too austere for some. A bamboo plant or a large wooden vase for example. Playing with scale can also help create an interesting play on a mid-century aesthetic. Try giant oversized throw pillows or an extra large mirror.”

7. Bold colors

"The key to a mid-century modern look is to be inspired by the bold color choices of that time period. I look at paint swatches and images on Pinterest to see how the colors were used together,” recommends Kimberly Us, Author of “Bettie Page: Aphrodite Rising.”

Additionally, incorporating iconic furniture pieces and minimalist decor accents can further enhance the authenticity of the design. Don't be afraid to experiment with textures and materials such as wood, leather, and metal to achieve that quintessential mid-century modern aesthetic. Remember, it's all about capturing the essence of the era while infusing your own personal style into the mix.

8. Natural, simple materials

Incorporating natural woods and simple, organic materials into your decor can infuse your space with warmth, texture, and a timeless appeal, enhancing the overall mid-century modern aesthetic.

“Resist the temptation to lean into the kitsch when it comes to MCM design. Circle motifs, turquoise and orange color schemes, and tiki accessories can look out of place anywhere outside Palm Springs,” shares Vicente of Modern Tours Palm Springs, a company that offers self-driving tours of MCM architecture in Palm Springs. “Instead aim to add classic pieces to your space; think teak wood, and mixing wood with other natural materials like stone. The heart of mid-century modern design and style is the principle of bringing the outdoors in, so when in doubt, unclutter your windows, add plants in stylish footed planter pots and pair accessories back to just some chic essentials: The most popular homes we share with clients on our MCM architecture tours are the simplest ones.”

9. Where to source

Sourcing furniture from reputable vendors or vintage shops can offer the benefits of quality craftsmanship, unique character, and often more environmentally sustainable options, contributing to the authenticity and charm of your MCM-inspired interior.

Per Obiora Co-founder, of Kashew, a unique marketplace to find one-of-a-kind, recycled furniture, recommends, “If you're on a treasure hunt for a piece of MCM furniture, an early morning visit to the flea market might be the key. That way, you won't miss out on the really good finds. And when you're browsing, keep an eye out for those organic shapes and authentic materials like teak wood, leather, plastic, or those vibrant and bright fabrics that indicate a true MCM piece.

Hunting for authentic mid-century modern furniture on general marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook, or OfferUp can feel a bit like looking for a needle in a haystack. So, if you're serious about finding a gem, it might be worth exploring marketplaces specifically dedicated to furniture. Places like Chairish, Kashew, or 1stDibs have filters that let you browse through styles, making your search a whole lot easier and fun. On top of that, most of them offer a money-back guarantee and optional delivery that make buying a breeze.”

10. Opt in for a replica

Finding a look-alike to an original piece allows you to capture the essence and style of iconic MCM designs while often offering a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising on aesthetic appeal.

Alex Back, CEO of Couch.com,shares, “There are far more efficient and cost-effective ways to achieve this look and feel without scouring every vintage store in town for the most authentic piece of furniture. One suggestion is to go with a brand-new replica. Take some pressure off of the situation and be okay without that authentic piece that has lasted 50+ years. Buying a new piece of furniture that is made to look like a vintage piece is no crime.

There are tons of great furniture makers and suppliers producing mid-century lookalikes for far less money than their authentic vintage counterparts. Originals may have been produced with better quality materials than their new replica counterparts but new production pieces haven't had seven different owners and their own AARP cards. Buying authentic vintage furniture can be great but is usually a lot of work to refurbish and/or upkeep and a lot of it isn't in great structural shape anymore.”

11. Check the authenticity of your sourced piece

Milena Palandech from Studio Sonja Milan, a marketplace where you can find original designer pieces, shares, “I've found amazing pieces at auction, at estate sales, and even on platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. I once was able to snag a breathtaking black walnut dining table designed by Gio Ponte on Craigslist for $500. The table top needed refinishing, but I was all in for $1,100, and similar tables are listed on 1stDibs for $5,000-$10,000. It's incredibly beautiful, functional, and it will last another 70 years with proper care.

Estate sales can easily be found and searched online. My go-to is estatesales.net. You can see sales in your area complete with photos. If you see something that you like, I'd recommend you go on the first day of the sale and ideally early. I've found great furniture pieces by Knoll, Eames, Dunbar, and Mastercraft and incredible vintage barware at estate sales.

I always check for authenticity. There are all sorts of knockoffs and reproductions out there. Look for labels, makers' marks, or tags. For example, almost all Danish furniture that was exported for sale in the US has a branded Danish stamp somewhere on the piece. Pieces made by Dunbar typically have a metal Dunbar tag. Do research in advance so you know what to look for.”

12. Don’t overdo it

Jill Regan, Owner of a design company in Palm Springs, CA, called Baldo Creative, shares, “My advice for anyone attempting to design their homes in a Mid-Century Modern style would be: "Don't overdo it." Many times, I see homes where the owner has gone overboard with MCM kitsch. The main principles of MCM are simple, airy, and sparse, allowing the architecture and open expanse to speak for itself. Also, don't be afraid to mix in other styles as a simple yet effective accent, such as an ornate console table, marble surfaces, or a more decorative mirror.

As far as color, you can't go wrong with Decorator White by Benjamin Moore. Light plays really well off of this neutral color. If you want an accent, keep it simple and monochromatic.”

13. Get your MCM inspo from pop culture

Drawing inspiration from pop culture references like iconic films and television shows can offer valuable insights into incorporating mid-century modern design elements into your space, allowing you to capture the timeless allure of the era in a contemporary context.

“If we were asked to create a mid-century design, the first thing we would do is look at movies and magazines of that era for inspiration. A couple of our favorite films with quintessential MCM set design are "The Graduate" (1967) and "The Long Goodbye" (1973),” mentions Bridget Connelly from After Hours Vintage, a curator for vintage stores in Los Angeles.

“If you live in the LA area, we recommend walking in the Hollywood Hills where some of the filming locations were for "The Long Goodbye". There are staircases leading up to the original filming location of the apartment where Elliott Gould's character lived. It's a great workout, and the views are incredible. Another hot tip is if you have a subscription to Architectural Digest Pro, they have a digital library of magazines that date back to those decades.”

14. MCM is timeless and can also represent you

While mid-century modern design is indeed timeless and versatile, it's essential to avoid turning your home into a museum-like time capsule; instead, infuse it with your personality and unique touches to create a space that feels authentic and inviting.

Wendy Sy, content creator and founder of Style Meets Story based in New York City, shares, “Mid-century modern design is one of my favorite architectural design styles since it combines elements of the past and present. There’s so much freedom to play with when designing your space — from curved wooden tables to sleek metal lamps and more. The beauty of mid-century modern design is that 20+ years from now, it will still be in style.

One tip I would suggest is to infuse your personality into your interior design. Whether it be going for a bold retro couch or keeping it timeless with a globe lamp, you’ll feel much more at home when your space feels like you. Mid-century modern design is pretty versatile to mix and match different colors and textures.”

15. Source authentic pieces

Investing in one authentic mid-century modern piece can serve as a focal point, adding a touch of iconic design and historical significance to your space while elevating its overall aesthetic appeal.

Sara Morel, Founder of Reclaimed Woman, a company that focuses on promoting sustainable choices for both fashion and home decor, sharing insights on reclaimed renovation projects and spotlighting brands and individuals embracing circular principles in their work, shares, “Mid-century modern furniture blends so well with all manner of interior styles, making it a wonderful starting point if you want to incorporate more authentic vintage pieces into your home. Specialist markets or shows, such as Midcentury Modern in London, are a good way to source the real deal and learn more about incredible makers of the design period.”

16. Restore furniture

Opting to purchase and restore old mid-century modern pieces can offer a more cost-effective and sustainable approach, breathing new life into timeless designs while minimizing environmental impact.

Caleb Leonard, Owner of Encore Furniture Restoration, serving furniture restoration customers across all of Central Florida, recommends, “Don’t limit yourself to shopping online. Nabbing a great deal at an estate sale or even a yard sale is a great way to save some cash. If the piece you find needs some touch up, find a reputable furniture repair shop and ask for a free quote. Chances are you’ll save money compared to buying an already restored piece.

As long as a piece is structurally sound, normal wear and tear can be touched up by a reputable furniture repair shop. Finding a lightly worn piece on Facebook Marketplace that suits your style can be a very cost-effective option. Even after paying for minor repairs, you will likely find yourself hundreds of dollars less expensive than buying an already restored piece.”

17. Choosing a palette

Khashab Khashab and Richard Opper from DormVibes says, “To truly embrace MCM's allure, start by choosing from its signature palette to personalize vintage finds — select a hue that speaks to you, like warm rust or deep, caramel-orange, especially for leather upholstery. This approach ensures the pieces not only pay homage to MCM’s rich, earthy tones but also resonate with your personal taste.

Accentuate these customized pieces with light wood accents and vivid, statement pillows to add another layer of your own flair. Lay a light-colored rug or expose natural wood flooring to anchor your space in MCM's celebrated style. By choosing the colors you love and mixing them with timeless MCM design, you create a space that’s as individual as you are.”

18. Pitfalls to avoid

"There are several pitfalls which can compromise the success of a MCM interior, starting with a cluttered
interior with too many furniture and décor pieces, which can detract from the clean and streamlined
aesthetic characteristic of MCM design," shares Adina Hall from Adina Hall Design, a full service interior design firm in Chicago that turns houses into Dream Homes.

"Another pitfall is neglecting the importance of authenticity in materials and craftsmanship; it is best to wait and save for the authentic piece rather than opting for cheap replicas, which can compromise the integrity of the design and comfort level. I was once thrilled to find an Eames lounge chair replica that looked identical to the real thing for a fraction of the price. When I sat in it, I could not have been more disappointed. At the core of MCM design is incredible craftmanship, beyond what meets the eye, in order to create pieces and spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing."

Courtesy of Adina Hall Design

Mid-Century Modern Apartment Design Tips | ApartmentGuide (2024)