3 February 2023
Mid-century modern style: what made it so fashionable?

Today’s interior designs often hark back to aesthetics from the middle of the previous century. The mid-century modern style has not only taken by storm our living rooms, but also entire flats. If we recall why the aforementioned period is referred to as the golden age of design, a return to the trends of the time is no longer surprising. The 1950s and 1960s were, after all, the birth of the best interior design.

Design close to people and nature

The mid-20th century was a time of major changes in the approach to design. This period saw a move away from opulent dwellings towards simplicity and functionality. We said goodbye to furniture richly decorated with ornaments, and appreciated comfort and versatility. Designers were keen to experiment with new forms, patterns or colours, but used them in a light and casual way. Multifunctionality also flourished in that period. Due to the baby boomers, the average flat size has decreased. This has given rise to the need to combine multiple utility functions in a smaller space and to create furniture and appliances that are striking without cluttering up small spaces. In a nutshell – the flat was first and foremost intended to serve its dwellers and be practical. This approach meant that the designs from that era have not lost their relevance and are still valued today.

Key elements of mid-century modern

The mid-century modern style can be characterised quite easily. Among its most important features are, of course, simplicity and functionality. When arranging in this style, the focus is therefore on making the interior comfortable, practical and suited to the user’s lifestyle. Neutral colours should dominate the colour palette – from whites to beiges to dark browns. Slightly darker colours of pastels, orange, yellow, turquoise or green are advisable as accessories. At its most popular unveiling, the mid-century modern style interior consists of white walls, lacquered furniture with a visible wood pattern and a few colour accessories. When choosing furniture and decoration for such an interior, lean towards items made from natural materials. The basis is the aforementioned wood, often combined with metal or glass. Mid-century style furniture is light, simple in form, with geometric or oval shapes and most often – set on legs.

Mid-century modern bathroom

Furnishing a bathroom in a stylish and sophisticated way, but without going overboard, can be a challenge. Therefore, the mid-century modern style, which is rather frugal in its means, will be the right choice for both a small bathroom and a spacious bath salon. The walls should then feature large-format tiles with a stone pattern or, on the contrary, fine aged tiles and mosaics with a brushed effect. It is advisable to line the floor with wood or wood-like tiles.

The basis of mid-century design must be functionality, so don’t forget that bathroom furniture should not only be stylish, but also spacious and durable. Such is the Op-Arty collection, which, in addition to its unique design, offers the best usability. The durability of the furniture is guaranteed by the use of décor type furniture boards with increased quality parameters. Clever features, such as the soft-close door system, the practical drawer organiser and the ultra-slim runners, which increase the furniture’s capacity, ensure user convenience. The Rockford walnut décor is evocative of vintage style, while the geometric line of the legs in this range is a direct inspiration from the 1960s design. This characteristic element also appears in the mirrors in the collection, where it acts as a shelf. Large mirrors are an integral part of the mid-century style, so they cannot be overlooked.