In the world of interior design, we constantly see new styles emerge and fade in and out of fashion, but there are a select few that remain consistently popular. There are just some trends that never stop trending and quickly become staple pieces for the everyday homeowner. Mid-century style dining tables are a perfect example of this – a timeless design that is still highly sought after today.
The origins of mid-century design
Between the 1930s and 1960s, a notable shift in focus occurred in furniture manufacturing. The period following World War II was marked by an economic boom, which subsequently enabled more people to afford new homes and modern furnishings. With the influences of Bauhaus and Modernism still evident, Mid-century essentially descended from these broader movements, meaning that it shared many similar qualities. There was a common emphasis on the simplicity and functionality of furniture, with pieces often featuring multi-purpose designs that were much more modern and, most importantly, functional.
Throughout this period, a growing societal desire emerged to move away from the ornate styles of the past and adopt a more modern way of living.
Iconic design features
Key features of mid-century furniture include clean lines, organic shapes and functional designs. There was definitely an emphasis on modernising and simplifying design style, mainly through minimising ornamentation. This translated into a much more classic and chic style of furniture, relying on seamless craftsmanship and attention to detail. These pieces strike a perfect balance between elegance and practicality.
Some key designers to note include Hans Wegner and Charles and Ray Eames, who made significant contributions to modern furniture design and were among the most influential and celebrated designers of the 20th century, helping to revolutionise the industry as we know it.
Timeless appeal in modern homes
Mid-century dining tables complement both traditional and contemporary interiors. Their adaptability makes them suitable for any environment, from family homes to office interiors. They serve as statement pieces, yet remain understated and seamless. They can be used in any space to add a new element of simplicity.
Investment value and sustainability
When we look at furniture production today, we continue to see an increase in fast furniture. Although the low price tag may seem appealing, the environmental impact of these pieces is truly detrimental. Not only do we see millions of wasted pieces go to landfill, but the durability of these products is nowhere near as good as mid-century furniture, meaning you’ll have to replace them more regularly. Mid-century furniture was built with durability in mind, meaning they have a much longer lifespan and can withstand more than modern-day furniture.
Finding your mid-century dining table
Mid-century dining tables remain design classics. Their simplistic nature allows them to be seamlessly integrated into most spaces, and their practical design makes them perfect for families seeking style and functionality. Finding the right piece of furniture for your space can sometimes be a challenging task, but with mid-century pieces, you are almost guaranteed to find something that suits your needs.
