Mid-Century Design in Cinema: Get the Look

Source: interiordesign.net

The mid-century modern aesthetic is defined by its clean lines and minimalist design. It spans roughly the 1930s to the 1960s, a time inspired by forward-thinking designers such Charles and Ray Eames, Arne Jacobsen and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Their stripped-down approach to design still rings true today, as is evidenced in the renaissance that mid-century design has been experiencing. And you can look no further than your TV screen for proof. The spot-on set designs of “Mad Men” have helped to revive the trend that, for many, has never gone out of style.

Don Draper’s chic Manhattan apartment is dripping with mid-century style. From the simple tapered legs on the ottoman to the leather recliner reminiscent of the Eames lounger, it embodies the spirit of mid-century modern design.

The button tufting found on the sofa is a classic detail of mid-century design. Re-create the look in your home with the Hunter Armchair:

Or add a punch of color with the Annabelle Sofa:

The Ribeiro Bar Stool is a dead-ringer for the stools pulled up to Don and Megan Draper’s kitchen bar.

But let’s go back to a classic to get some true mid-century inspiration. The Vandamm house in “North by Northwest” is a dreamy interpretation of modern living

It’s architecture is a take on another classic Frank Lloyd Wright’s Falling Water. Rumor has it that Hitchcock couldn’t afford to hire Wright, and instead enlisted MGM staff to create a Frank Lloyd Wright-esc design.

The mid-century feel continues into the interior of the Vandamm house, and it doesn’t disappoint. The scene below could be plucked from the pages of a modern-day shelter mag.

The Mongolian lamb’s wool throw (seen draped over the slipper chair in the bottom left hand corner) is a staple in today’s boho-chic abodes. Paired with the Moroccan tray table, it’s a perfect counterpoint to the contemporary elements of mid-century modern design.

Get the look with the Teese Side Table:

And no mid-century modern interior is complete without a bar. Mrs. Robinson’s glamorous set-up in “The Graduate” is still enviable today.

The Saarinen-inspired barstools, with their curved, sloped backs, are timeless.

Get a similar look with the Sanford Bar Stool:

When incorporating mid-century modern design into your home, think “clean lines,” “organic,” “modular.” Shun composite woods for the real deal, like teak and walnut, and keep it simple. There’s no denying mid-century modern design is here to stay.