A living room in the Mid Mod style is open, inviting, and timeless. With a just few gorgeous pieces, you can elevate your living space into something unique and beautiful.

Mid Century Modern (MCM) is a term often applied to architecture. However, the term actually applies to a general style movement that incorporates all elements of design, including buildings, furniture, and decor.

Like MCM architecture, furnishings in this style are designed to be clean, minimalist, and functional. But that does not mean they are boring! On the contrary, MCM decor features some surprising elements that add beauty and personality to any room

Today, we will be looking at some elements to consider for a Mid Century Modern living room. However, the same basic rules can be applied to any room in the house. 

Mid Century Modern Furniture Common Features

When you look at MCM furniture, all the pieces have some aspects in common. These include: 

• Tapered legs on furniture, especially chairs and consoles
• Natural/unfinished woods
• Combinations of materials, like wood and metal
• Geometric elements
• Muted colors

With these things in mind, let’s look at some examples of living room items that fit the classic MCM style. 

Mid Century Modern Accent Chair

This chair incorporates typical MCM styling: the overall minimalist design features the essential “tapered legs,” as well as natural wood elements contrasted with a muted, gray upholstery. The textured, wooden “mesh” arm rests are also typical MCM, which embraces geometry and surfaces that engage the senses. 

Chair by Corrigan Studios. Available from wayfair.com

Mid Mod Coffee Table

Here we have another great example of MCM design. The table combines materials effortlessly, with a glass top perched on a sleek walnut base. The classic tapered legs are here, but they have been elevated by a purposeful asymmetry. The green-tint gives the glass a more natural look, which is another key element of MCM design. 

Table by Marcio. Available at westelm.com

MCM Console

No 1950s living room was complete without a stereo console. Many even included a built-in bar so you could pour yourself a drink, choose a record, and relax after a long day at work. This beautiful example by PoBo Lifestyle has been retro-fitted in the mid-century modern style, exemplifying its simple beauty and functionality. Again, we have tapered legs and a clean, symmetrical design. The modern record player features an elegant glass platter on a natural wood base, perfectly complementing the original colors and materials of this vintage piece. A golden bar area on the left can be hidden during the day with a sliding wooden panel. 

Console by pobolifestyle.com. Style is “Monterey.”

Mid Century Mod Couch

For a splash of color, try making your couch the focal point. After all, it is where you’ll be spending the most time in your living area. This beautiful, mustard-yellow couch perfectly underlines the MCM aesthetic, with clean lines, tapered wooden legs, and straight edges all around. The material is velvet, making it supremely comfortable and adding to the retro aesthetic. 

Couch available at joybird.com Color shown is “Bentley Daisy.”

MCM Accents

When it comes to accenting your mid-mod furniture, keep the same style elements in mind. 

• Wall art should have muted color palettes and be more abstract, with geometric elements. 
• Lighting is integral to any mid-mod living space. In addition to plenty of natural light, accent your living room with lighting that incorporates sculptural elements or transparent lamp shades to allow even more light to shine in. 
• Keep knick knacks to a minimum and choose ones that are (or at least appear) functional. Wooden paperweights, matching books, and white vases are all great options. 

How do you feel about Mid Century Modern decor? Is it something you would try? Let me know in the comments!