Mid-Century and Art Deco: A Revival in Modern Interiors

Design trends have a way of cycling back into popularity, and right now, Mid-Century and Art Deco styles are enjoying a powerful revival. From sleek, functional furniture to glamorous, geometric accents, these two design eras—though distinct—are finding common ground in today’s homes. Whether you lean toward the clean lines of the 1950s or the lavish elegance of the 1920s, Mid-Century and Art Deco elements can create spaces that feel both timeless and on-trend.

At Type A Decor, we’re seeing more clients drawn to the bold statements and enduring appeal of Mid-Century and Art Deco influences. This blend offers the best of both worlds: the streamlined efficiency of mid-century design paired with the decadent artistry of Art Deco.

Mid-Century and Art Deco may seem like opposite ends of the design spectrum, but their shared characteristics—strong shapes, high-quality materials, and distinctive details—make them surprisingly compatible.

✅ Understanding the Appeal of Mid-Century and Art Deco

• Mid-Century design emphasizes:
  • Clean, simple lines
  • Organic curves
  • Functional layouts
  • Warm wood tones
• Art Deco design celebrates:
  • Glamorous finishes like brass, lacquer, and marble
  • Bold geometric patterns
  • Rich, saturated colors
  • Symmetry and statement-making details

By combining these elements, Mid-Century and Art Deco interiors feel sophisticated yet livable.

✅ Why Mid-Century and Art Deco Are Back

Several factors are driving the comeback of Mid-Century and Art Deco styles:

1. Nostalgia Meets Modern Living
   • People appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind vintage pieces.
   • Both styles adapt well to modern open floor plans.
2. Sustainability
   • Buying authentic mid-century furniture or Art Deco antiques reduces waste.
   • Quality construction means these pieces last for decades.
3. Versatility
   • Mid-Century and Art Deco designs work in city apartments, suburban homes, and vacation retreats alike.

✅ Signature Elements of Mid-Century and Art Deco Revival

1. Streamlined Silhouettes with Glamorous Touches

• A mid-century walnut credenza accented with Art Deco-style brass handles is a perfect example.
• Sleek shapes from mid-century design pair beautifully with the opulence of Art Deco finishes.

Brands to Explore:

• Entry-Level: Article, West Elm
• Mid-Range: Joybird, Crate & Barrel
• High-End: Jonathan Adler, Design Within Reach

2. Geometric Patterns

• Art Deco’s chevrons, zigzags, and sunbursts can be softened with mid-century’s organic lines.
• Wallpaper, area rugs, and tile are ideal places to incorporate these patterns.

Brands to Explore:

• Entry-Level: Target (Opalhouse), Society6
• Mid-Range: CB2, Anthropologie
• High-End: Schumacher, Kelly Wearstler

3. Bold yet Balanced Color Palettes

• Mid-century often favors warm neutrals with pops of mustard, teal, or rust.
• Art Deco embraces jewel tones and high-contrast combinations.
• Together, they allow for a vibrant yet cohesive scheme.

Brands to Explore:

• Entry-Level: IKEA, H&M Home
• Mid-Range: West Elm, Rove Concepts
• High-End: Jonathan Adler, Brabbu

4. Luxurious Materials

• Marble, glass, brass, and velvet from Art Deco blend with mid-century woods, leather, and ceramic.
• Mixing these textures is a hallmark of the Mid-Century and Art Deco look.

Brands to Explore:

• Entry-Level: World Market, Urban Outfitters Home
• Mid-Range: Room & Board, Soho Home
• High-End: Eichholtz, Restoration Hardware

✅ How to Incorporate Mid-Century and Art Deco at Home

Living Room

• Anchor the room with a mid-century sofa in a neutral fabric.
• Add an Art Deco coffee table with a mirrored or marble top.
• Layer in geometric throw pillows and a statement rug.

Brand Suggestions:

• Entry-Level: Article (sofas), Target (threshold rugs)
• Mid-Range: Crate & Barrel (tables), CB2 (pillows)
• High-End: Jonathan Adler (statement pieces), Kelly Wearstler (lighting)

Dining Room

• Pair a sleek wooden dining table with upholstered chairs featuring Art Deco curves.
• Install a bold chandelier in an Art Deco design above the table.

Brand Suggestions:

• Entry-Level: IKEA (tables), Wayfair (chairs)
• Mid-Range: West Elm (tables), Anthropologie (lighting)
• High-End: Arteriors (lighting), Brabbu (chairs)

Bedroom

• Use a mid-century bed frame with tapered legs.
• Add Art Deco nightstands or lamps with metallic finishes.
• Choose bedding in jewel tones for a luxurious feel.

Brand Suggestions:

• Entry-Level: Target (bed frames), H&M Home (bedding)
• Mid-Range: Rove Concepts (bed frames), CB2 (lamps)
• High-End: Jonathan Adler (nightstands), Soho Home (bedding)

✅ Tips for Balancing the Two Styles

• Choose a dominant influence: Let one style lead and use the other as an accent.
• Repeat materials and colors: This unifies the Mid-Century and Art Deco blend.
• Keep scale in mind: Art Deco’s drama can overwhelm if not balanced with mid-century’s simplicity.
• Don’t overcrowd: Both styles deserve space to be appreciated.

✅ The Role of Lighting

Lighting is where Mid-Century and Art Deco really shine—literally.

• Mid-century lighting often features:
  • Sputnik chandeliers
  • Tripod floor lamps
  • Simple drum shades
• Art Deco lighting showcases:
  • Glamorous crystal fixtures
  • Tiered and geometric shapes
  • Frosted glass

Lighting Brands to Explore:

• Entry-Level: Home Depot, Target
• Mid-Range: West Elm, CB2
• High-End: Visual Comfort, Restoration Hardware

✅ Sustainability and Collectibility

Authentic Mid-Century and Art Deco pieces are often built to last, making them smart investments:

• They retain or even increase in value.
• They’re often made from real wood, solid metals, and high-quality fabrics.
• Vintage finds bring a unique story to your home.

For those who value eco-conscious living, sourcing vintage Mid-Century and Art Deco furniture supports sustainability while adding character.

✅ Final Thoughts

The revival of Mid-Century and Art Deco proves that great design never truly goes out of style. By blending the clean, functional beauty of mid-century design with the lavish, bold personality of Art Deco, you can create interiors that are rich, inviting, and uniquely yours.

Whether you start with one statement piece or transform your whole home, Mid-Century and Art Deco style offers endless possibilities. And with the right mix—plus carefully chosen brands at the right price points—you can achieve a look that feels fresh today while honoring design traditions of the past.

At Type A Decor, we’re here to help you source, style, and balance these two remarkable eras so your home tells a story that’s entirely your own.

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