HGTV | Midcentury Modern Style 101

Published on HGTV.com. Read the full article here.

What Is Midcentury Modern Style?

Midcentury modern style (also referred to as midmod and MCM) flourished during the mid-20th century when newly affluent post-War families began expanding into America’s suburbs. “Midcentury homes are characterized by minimal fuss and ornamentation, along with sleek lines juxtaposed by organic shapes. Its look was a complete departure from the century’s earlier ornate and extravagant design,” says Luke Caldwell, co-host of HGTV’s Boise Boys. “On the exterior, you may have very wide, low footprints with floor to ceiling windows and flat rooflines, while exposed ceilings and beams, open floor plans, partial brick or glass walls, ergonomically designed furniture and short staircases connecting rooms throughout the house often defined the home’s interior.” Though your home may not be architecturally MCM, sleek furnishings and decor can give any space a timeless midmod glow. Read on for tips, tricks and all the info.

Midcentury Modern Style Is Awash in Bright and Muted Colors

"Two dominant color palettes emerged during the midcentury modern period beginning with brights and pastels in the 1940s — think teal, turquoise, lime, pink, pale blue and yellow — and culminating with more earthy tones in the 1960s — like olive, khaki, mustard yellow, burnt orange, and brown,” says Missy Stewart, Principal Designer at Missy Stewart Designs in Houston, Texas.