Born in the postwar era of the 1940s to 1960s, mid-mod design balanced everyday function with style. From statement pieces to subtle accents, mid century modern furniture is instantly recognizable for its clean lines, innovative shapes, and comfort. Here are some of the most iconic examples of pieces that continue to appeal to modern-day people and collectors.
1. Egg Chairs
“Drop, Egg, and Swan chairs - Arne Jacobsen,” by Naotake Murayama (naotakem), via Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0
The Egg Chair is one of the most iconic silhouettes to emerge from the mid-century modern era. Designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1958, it was created for the lobby of the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen.
The sculptural, high-backed form and cozy curves provide privacy and style. They are typically upholstered in leather or wool, and are perched on a sleek metal swivel base. The Egg Chair is a peak representation of the era’s futuristic optimism.
2. Eames Lounge Chair & Ottoman
“Eames Lounge Chair,” by artistmac, via Flickr, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1956, is arguably the most recognized piece of American mid-century modern furniture.
Inspired by the traditional English club chair, this version unconventionally combines molded plywood and luxurious leather. The result is a sophisticated design without compromising comfort, with the ergonomic shape and reclined angle making it perfect for relaxation in studies, dens, and living rooms.
3. Barcelona Chair & Ottoman
“Beste vintage vondst yet: Barcelona chair repro!” by Guy Sie, via Flickr, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Initially designed for Spanish royalty by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich in 1929, the Barcelona Chair & Ottoman embody the blend of classic luxury and modern simplicity.
The sleek steel frame and tufted leather cushions give the chair a sculptural quality that works wonders in minimalist spaces, while still giving the air of a throne fit for a king.
4. Noguchi Coffee Table
“Isamu Noguchi, Coffee table, 1959,” by lartnouveauenfrance, via Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0
The Noguchi Coffee Table, designed by sculptor Isamu Noguchi in 1947, is equal parts art and furniture. With a curved, interlocking wooden base and a thick, freeform glass top, the table shows off the mid-century fascination with organic shapes and natural materials.
5. Eero Saarinen Pedestal Table
“Table & Two Chairs,” by Cliff Hutson (The Marmot), via Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0
The Eero Saarinen Pedestal Table is a defining example of mid-century modern design’s move toward sleek minimalism.
Designed in the 1950s to eliminate the "ugly, confusing, unrestful world" of legs beneath tables and chairs, Saarinen’s solution was a single, sleek pedestal base topped with laminate or marble.
6. Nelson Bench
“1947 Nelson Flat Bench,” by RDJcreatives, via Flickr, licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
The Nelson Platform Bench, designed by George Nelson in 1946, is a beautiful example of function and form.
With a clean slatted top and solid wood construction, the bench is visually pleasing and multifunctional. Think extra seating, a low table, or even a TV stand. Its simple lines and list of practical uses highlight the style’s embrace of versatile pieces that look nice in any space, be it entryways, bedrooms, or living rooms.
7. Lane Credenza
“1959 Lane Credenza,” by lacasavictoria, via Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0
Produced by Lane Furniture, especially during the 1960s, Lane credenzas are beloved mid century modern furniture pieces known for their tapered legs, sliding doors, sculpted or recessed pulls, and warm wood finishes—typically walnut or teak.
8. Record Console
“Zenith Stereophonic High Fidelity Phonograph,” by AZAdam, via Flickr, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Mid century modern record consoles combine the entertainment of built-in turntables and radios with the functionality of cabinetry for vinyl records. The sliding door and woven speaker grilles are telltale features of a classic mid-mod record console, and they are the perfect statement piece for music lovers and collectors.
9. Arc Floor Lamps
Arc floor lamps are iconic lighting options for mid-century modern homes, combining the fun shapes of mid-mod style with practical function—because it’s much easier to enjoy a book with lighting directly above your reading nook!
10. Shelf Lamps
Mid-century modern floor lamps with built-in shelves combine ambient lighting with the practicality of open storage. Their wood or metal frames feature tiered shelving, making them a minimalist, space-saving solution for organizing books, plants, and decor in a compact area.
Conclusion
As the furniture on this list shows, multifunctionality was a hallmark of mid century design. Whether you’re looking to give your home a full mid-mod furniture update or just add a few accent pieces, incorporating these classics brings warmth, character, and practicality to your space.
