28 DAY RETURNS
Mid Century Modern Styling in 2025
Characterised by the perfect balance between comfort and chic, the mid-century modern era—spanning from the mid-1940s to the late 1960s—brought a fresh approach to interior design with sleek lines, statement lighting, and organic styling. Pop colours and playful patterns added energy to spaces that remained grounded in clean, functional design. Think Palm Springs: low-slung architecture, timber accents, and serene outdoor living that blurs the line between indoors and out.
Fast forward to today, and mid-century modern influence is everywhere. In 2025, we're seeing this nostalgic aesthetic evolve with more sustainable materials, softer forms, and a renewed focus on timelessness. The appeal lies in its ability to combine functionality with personality.
Living & Dining
Open-plan living—now almost expected in modern homes—was a hallmark of the mid-century modern style. Homes were designed to be bright, social, and efficient without sacrificing flair. Furniture featured tapered legs, flared-backs, and minimal ornamentation, letting natural materials like teak, walnut, and leather shine.
To create this look in your own home:
-
Start with standout investment pieces such as the Joel Three Seater, Volda Sofa, or Jensen Two Seater.
-
Pair your sofa with a dining table like the Madrid or Renmin, and complement with an entertainment unit or console like the Barcelona Sideboard or Bari Bar.
-
Add a sculptural piece to elevate the space, such as the Cassino Lounger or Ashwell Armchair.
Complete the look with well-considered accessories: think abstract wall art, handwoven rugs, and textured cushions.
Living & Dining
Open-plan living—now almost expected in modern homes—was a hallmark of the mid-century modern style. Homes were designed to be bright, social, and efficient without sacrificing flair. Furniture featured tapered legs, flared-backs, and minimal ornamentation, letting natural materials like teak, walnut, and leather shine.
To create this look in your own home:
-
Start with standout investment pieces such as the Joel Three Seater, Volda Sofa, or Jensen Two Seater.
-
Pair your sofa with a dining table like the Madrid or Renmin, and complement with an entertainment unit or console like the Barcelona Sideboard or Bari Bar.
-
Add a sculptural piece to elevate the space, such as the Cassino Lounger or Ashwell Armchair.
Complete the look with well-considered accessories: think abstract wall art, handwoven rugs, and textured cushions.
Lighting
Lighting was (and still is) a hero feature of mid-century interiors. Dome-shaped pendants, sculptural table lamps, chrome or brass finishes, and geometric silhouettes offered more than illumination—they were art.
Balance natural light with statement lighting like:
-
Chandeliers: Orius Pendant, Neptune Chandelier, or Starburst Pendant; Ealga Chandelier or Dean Antique Pendant.
-
Floor Lamps: Vienna Antique Floor Lamp, Vali Floor Lamp, or Brisa Brass Floor Lamp.
-
Table Lamps: Rocket Table Lamp, Albany Table Lamp, or the stylish Piccadilly Table Lamp.
Avoid cluttering the space—mid-century lighting should be bold, not busy. Choose one hero piece per room and let it shine.
Light up your living with mid-century modern style floor lamps from Gallery Direct
Living & Dining
Open-plan living—now almost expected in modern homes—was a hallmark of the mid-century modern style. Homes were designed to be bright, social, and efficient without sacrificing flair. Furniture featured tapered legs, flared-backs, and minimal ornamentation, letting natural materials like teak, walnut, and leather shine.
To create this look in your own home:
-
Start with standout investment pieces such as the Joel Three Seater, Volda Sofa, or Jensen Two Seater.
-
Pair your sofa with a dining table like the Madrid or Renmin, and complement with an entertainment unit or console like the Barcelona Sideboard or Bari Bar.
-
Add a sculptural piece to elevate the space, such as the Cassino Lounger or Ashwell Armchair.
Complete the look with well-considered accessories: think abstract wall art, handwoven rugs, and textured cushions.
Lighting
Lighting was (and still is) a hero feature of mid-century interiors. Dome-shaped pendants, sculptural table lamps, chrome or brass finishes, and geometric silhouettes offered more than illumination—they were art.
Balance natural light with statement lighting like:
-
Chandeliers: Orius Pendant, Neptune Chandelier, or Starburst Pendant Ealga Chandelier or Dean Antique Pendant by RV Astley.
-
Floor Lamps: Vienna Antique Floor Lamp, Vali Floor Lamp, or Brisa Brass Floor Lamp.
-
Table Lamps: Rocket Table Lamp, Albany Table Lamp, or the stylish Piccadilly Table Lamp.
Avoid cluttering the space—mid-century lighting should be bold, not busy. Choose one hero piece per room and let it shine.
Mirrors
No mid-century-inspired home is complete without a stunning mirror. Think dramatic but refined: starburst designs, curvy asymmetrical shapes, and rich finishes like timber or antique brass.
Top mirror picks to add character and light:
-
From Uttermost: Sun Antique Mirror, Moher Oval Mirror, or Tulla Antique Oval Mirror.
-
From Gallery Direct: Kurva Mirror, Herzfeld Starburst Mirror, or Quill Mirror.
A well-placed mirror can make a space feel bigger, brighter, and more curated.
Colour Palette
Mid-century modern design offers surprising versatility in colour. Earthy tones—mustard, olive, terracotta—are balanced with splashes of blush, teal, or smoky grey. Pair these with raw materials like timber, stone, and leather.
To stay on-theme in 2025, try layering:
-
A foundation of warm woods and whites
-
One or two accents like moss green, saffron yellow, or dusty pink
-
Rich textures in accessories: velvet cushions, boucle throws, or woven wall hangings
2025 Trends to Watch
Mid-century modern isn’t going anywhere—but it’s evolving. Look out for:
-
Sustainable design: FSC-certified woods and recycled upholstery
-
Softened edges: curvier forms inspired by 1970s nostalgia
-
Layered neutrals: instead of contrast, designers are layering creams, oatmeals and taupes for warmth
And thanks to platforms like Interior Design Masters, we’re seeing renewed love for this style across UK homes. This season’s winning designs leaned heavily on retro-meets-modern influences-clean lines, textured fabrics, and bold statement lighting were front and centre.
