We continue our series on distinctive characteristics of the significant furniture styles we carry at Around the Block, Toronto's go-to destination for quality furniture and home furnishings consignment.
This time we take a closer look at a furniture style that has seen a particularly strong interest in recent years - mid-century modern furniture. But what exactly is mid-century modern, and how is it different from modern furniture? Read on to learn more!
What is Mid-century Modern?
Mid-century modern furniture is a distinct style within the broader modern furniture movement. While the modern furniture movement began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with a focus on simplicity, functionality, and new materials, mid-century modern furniture emerged in the 1940s through 1960s as a distinct style. It was heavily influenced by the German art and design school, Bauhaus, and other modernist design movements within that period.
The mid-century modern era saw the rise in innovative designers and designs that revolutionized the furniture industry and continue to be popular today. Here are just a few:
Eames Lounge Chair
The Eames Lounge Chair is a classic piece of furniture designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1956. It is considered a masterpiece of American design and is still in production today. The chair features a molded plywood frame and leather upholstery, with a reclining back and a swivel base. It is often considered the quintessential example of the "modern" furniture style and is known for its combination of comfort and style. The Eames Lounge Chair is a popular choice for living rooms, offices, and other spaces where a comfortable and stylish seating option is desired. It is considered a design icon and a must-have furniture piece for any design enthusiast.
Nelson Platform Bench
The Nelson Platform Bench is a mid-century modern furniture designed by George Nelson in 1946. It is a simple, minimalist bench characterized by its clean lines and geometric shapes. The bench is made of a solid wood base, a plywood seat, and a backrest, with thin metal legs supporting it. It is considered a classic design in mid-century modern furniture and is still produced and sold today by several manufacturers.
Noguchi Table
The Noguchi Table is a coffee table designed by the Japanese-American artist and designer Isamu Noguchi. First produced by the Herman Miller furniture company in 1947, it is still in production today. The Noguchi Table is characterized by its simple, sculptural form and the use of natural materials. The table features a glass top and a base made of curved wood or metal pieces designed to resemble a tree's branches.
Noguchi's design is considered a classic of mid-century modern furniture design and is known for its elegance, simplicity, and balance.
Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair
The Danish architect and designer Arne Jacobsen designed the iconic Egg Chair. Initially created for the Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1958, it was part of a suite of furniture that included the Swan Chair. The Egg Chair is known for its unique, sculptural shape and its use of high-quality materials. It features a fiberglass shell that is covered in a variety of different fabrics or leathers. The chair also has a swivel base and a high back, providing comfort and support. It is considered a classic modern furniture design and is known for its organic shape and exceptional comfort.
Why Choose Mid-Century Modern Furniture?
Like Modern furniture, mid-century furniture focuses on function and minimalism. Because the style features simple, uncluttered design elements, it is easy to clean and maintain. The furniture, designed to be multi-functional, versatile, and adaptable to different design schemes, can be used to suit different needs.
Another key benefit of mid-century modern furniture is its timeless appeal. Because of the features of clean lines, simple forms, and new materials and technologies, mid-century modern has a timeless quality that is still relevant more than 80 years after it was introduced to the design world.
Finally, mid-century modern furniture is also durable. Because it is made from high-quality materials such as wood, metal, and plastic, it is built to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use, making it a perfect choice for an active home.
Around the Block - Toronto's Destination for Mid-Century Modern on Consignment
At Around the Block furniture consignment, we specialise in all the major furniture styles, including contemporary, transitional, traditional, and used mid century modern furniture Toronto. The mid-century modern furniture style might be right for your home if you want to add a popular and timeless style with multiple uses that are durable and easy to maintain. Whether you are looking for a vintage iconic piece like the Eames Lounge, Egg Chair, or something more multi-functional, visit Around the Block. Our selection is constantly changing, so be sure to browse furniture online at our website or stop by our store frequently to see what new finds we have in stock.
