Ekornes Stressless E200 sofa In the age of the 24-hour news cycle and lightning-fast innovation, it’s difficult for anything to stay in vogue for more than a season. Yet, some styles have managed to defy the odds and remain as popular now as they were three decades ago. When it comes to home decor, mid-century modern is the little black dress of the design world. Ever in style, the trend grew popular in the 1990s, and it doesn’t appear to be losing any steam. If you’re planning to remodel one of your rooms, you simply can’t go wrong with mid-century modern. Read on to learn more about this design style, why it’s such a great investment for your home, and how you can achieve this long-lasting look.

What Is Mid-Century Modern Design?

The definition of mid-century modern varies slightly depending on who you ask. More broadly, it’s defined as the architecture and home design originating between 1933 and 1965. Other designers narrow the window to between 1947 and 1957. If you close your eyes and imagine the set of “Mad Men,” you’ll have the epitome of mid-century modern in mind. Mid-century modern designs are classic and iconic. Bucket and barrel chairs with rounded backs, boxy sofas, simple wooden tables, and lots of wool fabric all characterize this design style. It’s a good choice for a modern city apartment, as well as a quaint den in the suburbs.

Why Is This Style So Popular?

Mid-century modern can be found between the pages of any home decor magazine, and retailers from IKEA to West Elm are cashing in on the endless trend. The benefits of picking up a mid-century modern piece are many. In addition to having near universal appeal, the furniture tends to be lightweight, easy to care for, and available at a variety of price points. What’s more, this design style will fit with all your existing pieces; the classic lines of a mid-century modern table look great against contemporary artwork, while a mid-century modern sofa is right at home on top of a shabby-chic rug. When you’re investing in a piece of furniture, you want it to last for years. The mid-century modern aesthetic isn’t going anywhere, and its versatility means that your mid-century modern pieces will mature with your home.

How Can I Get the Look?

When you’re ready to invest in mid-century modern design, there are a few key pieces that will get you going. Ideal for both a small room and a spacious open floor plan, these items will provide a focal point for your room and inspire your modern accessories.

Writing Desks

Oak writing desks are a common feature of mid-century modern design, and are usually found in the form of a long rectangular top with thin legs. They often have two narrow drawers, one on each side. Or, if you prefer to work in your favorite armchair, a laptop table with sleek lines and a glass top will go perfectly in your mid-century modern home.

Wooden Buffet Tables

Wooden buffet tables are a staple of mid-century modern design. Known for their simplicity, they often feature symmetrical wooden doors with inconspicuous handles. Although buffet tables were classically used to house whiskey and old-fashioned tumbler glasses, today you can use the top to display just about anything and add a touch of class to your mid-century modern dining room.

Rounded Chairs

Chairs covered in mustard or turquoise-colored wool are a classic visual in a mid-century-modern-style living room, but you aren’t required to commit to those colors to achieve the right look. The design of the chair is more important — think sleek and curved shapes, with smooth defining lines. Look for barrel chairs featuring a full back, or a chair with upper back support and an oval opening, which you may find more comfortable.

Rectangular Sofas

When you’re shopping for a sofa with mid-century modern in mind, stick to rectangular sofas with low backs. Again, remember to look for sleek and defined lines to achieve this aesthetic. Wool fabric and short legs are also in line with this unstoppable design trend. Looking for a mid-century modern piece to pull off this classic, long-lasting look in your own home? Visit The Back Store to view our wide range of ergonomic sofas, chairs, and accessories to develop a mid-century modern design that’s both chic and luxuriously comfortable.