Modern Style: Midcentury Modern

What is Midcentury Modern?

Midcentury Modern is a design style known for its emphasis on functionality and minimalism, rejecting the ornate details of previous eras. Think less is more – it's all about function without fuss. It became popular in the mid-20th century, reflecting a societal movement towards modernity and a more natural lifestyle. It’s known for geometric lines, bold accent colors, and an uncluttered aesthetic. Authentic Midcentury Modern pieces often feature specific woods like teak, rosewood, and oak.

Credit: JFD Creative


How to Create a Midcentury Modern Space

Utilize Key Materials

Incorporate the primary materials of the style – wood (especially teak, rosewood, and oak), metal, glass, and vinyl. These materials are often combined, like a wooden table with metal chairs, to create a distinctive look.

Embrace Bold Colors

Use color innovatively. Color is your best friend here. Midcentury Modern isn't shy about using bold colors to make something stand out or to set the mood in a room. Think about how a pop of color can really draw your eye or change how a room feels.

Credit: R ARCHITECTURE

Credit: JFD Creative

Keep Furniture Functional and Simple

The furniture should be easy to use and look straightforward. No unnecessary decorations – it's all about being practical and looking effortlessly cool.

Blur the Lines Between Inside and Outside

This style loves to connect the indoors with the great outdoors. Think big windows and open spaces that make it hard to tell where the inside ends and the outside begins.

Remember the Roots

Keep in mind, Midcentury Modern isn't just about looks. It's about a whole shift in how people thought about living – simpler, more modern. That mindset can really guide you in making your space feel authentic.


Midcentury Modern is more than just a design trend; it's a timeless approach that champions simplicity, functionality, and a harmonious blend of nature and modern living. By mixing key materials, embracing bold colors, focusing on functional furniture, and merging indoor and outdoor spaces, you can create a space that's not only stylish but also tells a story of cultural evolution.


About Me

At JFD Creative, we're all about crafting spaces that tell a story, each with its own unique identity. I'm Jessica Fischer, the heart behind the designs, and I've got a knack for mixing up furniture, lighting, art, and textures that not only add warmth but also a bit of soul to every project. My design eye comes from a life spent soaking up cultures in the Philippines, Japan, and Turkey, which means I love throwing in a splash of color, a touch of modernist charm, or a piece with a history that speaks. Whether it's working with beloved items my clients already have or starting from scratch, I draw from my colorful experiences and my formal training at the New York School of Interior Design.

Kristina Zacharias