What is all the buzz about Mid Century Modern? Certainly, that style is mentioned every where by designers. I checked an excellent reference for Architectural Styles, and nowhere is Mid Century Modern described. There is Victorian, Italianate, Prairie, Craftsman, Art Deco and Neo Classical plus many others. A current google search of "Mid Century Modern Homes" however generated 30,700,000 references.
Wikipedia describes Mid Century Modern as the time period from roughly 1933-1965. The term was coined by Cara Greenberg in 1983 for her book Mid-Century Modern: Furniture of the 1950s. Wiki describes Mid Century Modern as an architectural, interior and product design form that generally describes mid-20th century developments in modern design, architecture, and urban development. Some of the leaders in this style were Joseph Eichler, Frank Lloyd Wright, George Fred Keck, Henry Glass, and Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe.
I have had a theory in forming in my mind that during times of economic stress or uncertainty, that our natural desire is to turn to the things of the past. Those things that bring comfort and a sense of security. I have noticed that some current automobile colors are a throwback to the not too distant past. There are some unusual shades of green (think neon/vibrant colors) and orange (very vivid). Bright red lipstick is popular again just as it was in days gone by when our country was at war in the 1940's. It has been said that when the economy is suffering, lipstick sales actually go up. Perhaps lipstick is an affordable way to pamper and to provide some self nurturing.
Mid Century Modern is a return to the solid things in life, where space is not wasted--but celebrated. Windows cover an expanse of wall and bring the outside in. The organic and the free flowing are highlighted. Design and function are both highlighted.
Do you have a sample of Mid Century Modern that you find appealing? Share it here. I would love to have your input.
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