Mid-Century Modernsim

Mid-century Modernism was a movement that took place in the United States from 1950 to 1960. The architecture during this time featured flat roofs, angular details, and asymmetrical profiles. Large expansive window were also prominent in this style. The homes during this period were the first to use the bi-level structure of building. Due to the flat roofs that were characteristic of Mid-Century Modernism, this style was popular on the West Coast in milder climates.

Popular colors seen in these homes were warm earth tones that created a nature-like feel. Trendy, bold colors were also used to add contrast and interest. Furnishings during this time were created using primarily plastic, resin, metal composites, laminates, and fiberglass.

One of the iconic designers during this time was Joseph Eichler. He was a real-estate developer that developed the Mid-century tract houses. He was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright and many of his designs feature post and beam construction as well as open layouts with a low-slope or no-slope frame.  


Many famous furniture designers emerged during this time period including Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, George Nelson, and Isamu Noguchi. Eero Saarinen produced many famous furniture pieces for Knoll including the Tulip Chair, Womb Chair, Executive Chair. Charles and Ray Eames contributed a tremendous amount of furniture to the period. Some of their famous pieces include the Aluminum group, Eames Sofa, La Chaise, and the Molded Plywood Chair and Table set. Some of George Nelson's iconic furniture pieces are the Coconut Chair, Marshmallow Chiar, and the Platform Bench. Isamu Noguchi's famous Noguchi Table was also created for Herman Miller during this time. Many of these are still in production today and can be seen in homes across the world.