A guide to decorating with mid-century furniture

By Molly Malsom

Published: Friday, 26 August 2022 at 12:00 am

Mid-century is having a moment, with a resurgence in the popularity of the iconic furniture pieces of the period. From Ercol chairs to amber glass decor, these items remain as relevant today as they were when first introduced thanks to their modern, sleek designs that combine beautifully with pieces of any era.

What is mid-century?

Mid-century is the name for the design, architecture and furniture of the mid 20th century. It’s a timeless aesthetic, combining traditional and modern styles to create pieces that will never go out of fashion.

What is mid-century furniture?

Mid-century furniture is recognisable for its clean lines and graphic shapes – usually in neutral tones or vibrant shades – and is usually made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials.

Key designers of the period include Charles and Ray Eames, Robin Day, Hans Wegner, Arne Jacobsen, George Nelson and Charlotte Parriand.

Here’s a few ways to incorporate mid-century furniture into your home…

Mid-century decorating ideas

Make a statement with colour

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For a playful look, pair classic mid-century furniture with brightly coloured rugs, ceramics and a space-age atomic coat stand.

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Add practical mid-century furniture

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A telephone bench is a great spot to put on your shoes or check your appearance before leaving the house. Add a vintage phone for an authentic touch.

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Pile oversized cushions on and beside a classic mid-century chair – they are great for extra emergency seating for guests and are pretty eye-catching, too.

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An Ercol chair and matching footstool sing when paired with a sunny yellow cushion in Lucienne Day’s Dandelion Clocks fabric.

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Avoid an all-wooden look with a glossy tabletop in a cheerful shade. Team with textural  glass and a quirky wall clock to create an uplifting vibe.

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A splash of zesty green inside the cupboard sets off this striking collection of silver and ceramic tea and coffee pots, while the plants in West German planters ground the look.

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Create a restful space in your bedroom with a comfy bed and spacious bedside cabinet in matching woods for a simple yet stylish scheme.

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If your bathroom is large enough and your cabinet has seen better days, consider converting it into a sink unit – the perfect storage-with-style combination.

Where to buy mid-century furniture