Creating A Theme Environment: Mid-Century Modernism

Historical Overview:

Sometimes referred to as "Retro," slang for retrospective, Mid-Century Modernistic styling bursts with exuberance and self-confidence- exhibited in bold colors and patterns- within the American design community. New technology developed during the war-time years gave designers materials to work with which had not been available before. In addition to new materials, designers were working with shape and form in a different way, sculpting them into curved, simple shapes. In the Scandinavian countries, a different interpretation of Mid-Century Modernism was created, as designers focused on softening the international style with traditional Scandinavian values. Colors were softened, natural materials were used, yet the use of wood veneers was repeated within both communities. Key designers to research in this period are Alvar Aalto, Marcel Brewer, Charles and Ray Eames, Richard Neutra, Isamu Noguchi, Eero Saarinen and Russel Wright. These designers created furniture- notably chairs- as well as household accessories that set the state for Retro design.

Cabinetry/Millwork: Teak and mahogany, as well as almost any straight grained woods, in slab veneer doors are most appropriate. Brushed stainless steel, brushed nickel, and the introduction of pounded metals are excellent accessories. Frosted glass, ribbon glass or wire-reinforced commercial glass are appropriate accents. Cabinets can also be accented with aluminum doors or brightly colored accent doors.

Hardware: For the colorful Retro styling, asymmetrically balanced, interesting shaped hardware is appropriate. For the Scandinavian version, simple straight line understated hardware should be used.

Countertops: Laminate, stainless steel, lava stone in bright colors, quartz surfaces in bright colors would all be appropriate. Decorative tiles can be used at the backsplash - don't afraid about the color palette!

Colors: In the colorful version of the design theme, black-and-white repetitive patterns with pale tones of yellow and blue, peach or mid-greens are one choice. Pop Art acid green, orange, pink, red, yellow, bright blue is another color wave that is appropriate. Brown and orange, avocado green and harvest gold are a third possible color wave. In the Scandinavian design version, maple red, chartreuse green, chestnut orange, black, pearl gray and coral red are possible colors. Of note, mixing black or white in either direction works. Woods are natural in finish so they blend with both.

Surfaces:
Floors- Cork and linoleum flooring are the most appropriate. Wood is certainly an acceptable material, as well. IF tile is used, small grout lines and sharp tile edges are preferable over irregular edges.

Walls- Typically painted simple colors. The 1950s-type golden toned 3"x 6" brick installed in a running bond could be used as an accent.

Ceilings: Simple painted ceilings would normally used.

Accents: Antique and reproduction kitchenware is most appropriat: Fiestaware, Harlequin dinnerware, Bakelite-handled cutlery, molded plastics, Russel Wright dinnerware, are examples. Reproduction 1950's furniture is a must in these spaces. Michael Graves kitchen accessories are appropriate for a Retro look.