Page 185 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2020

“De ned by an emphasis on function, simple forms, and an earthy vibe, the Mid-century Modern style is here to stay.”
“overdone.”
Homes built
during this
era most often
had one story,
were smaller in
comparison to many of today’s homes, and featured unembellished exteriors. The scale alone of the Mid-Century Modern home helps de ne the style. Large pieces of furniture just don’t t in smaller homes and there’s no room for clutter. Mid-Century Modern also works well in the small bungalow, a perennial rst home favorite. It requires one to be choosy when it comes to furnishings and nishes. But you can create modern- inspired spaces anywhere.
The look begins with neutral walls (we like white), lots of light, and furniture with slim silhouettes. You don’t have to go “whole hog” and throw everything out, start with one piece of furniture integrated into your current scheme. Great Mid-Century Modern pieces can still be found in second hand shops, garage sales, and on internet resale sites. Buy a piece you’ve been needing in the house and go retro. A well-designed chair, console, or cocktail table can change
everything. Look for natural wood, teak works well, or leather and stay away from heavy and ornate. Avoid skirts on chairs and sofas and
move toward metal or peg legs instead. Light is essential in the Mid-Century Modern home and views to the outside should not be obstructed. A bold, funky
pendant light easily enlivens a kitchen or living space. Add abstract art, interesting mirrors, and plants to the mix. Don’t cover up all the walls. Sometimes less really is more. Collections are not as easy to accommodate in the Mid-Century Modern style due to its nod toward minimalism. Be picky about pieces you want to display on furniture. Pillows are the places for geometrics, graphic fabrics, and a pop of bold color.
We are seeing more and more coastal
homes incorporating Mid-Century Modern elements into their design aesthetic. Mirroring the optimistic outlook of the 1950s, Mid-Century Modern interiors o er a fresh look that can work anywhere and will always be in style. Let’s toast to this enduring era. Hope the bar cart is stocked and the cocktail shaker is chilled, we are ready for a martini!
Holly Harrison has been a licensed interior designer for over 35 years. Shannon Stage has spent nearly 20 years in the giftware industry. Together they own Sassy Bird Interiors in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
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