Mid Century vs Mid Century Modern
In this blog post, we unravel the distinction between "mid century" and "mid century modern" lighting design styles. Discover how these terms, often used interchangeably, represent unique aesthetics and materials used in design and production. Delve into the nuances of mid century vs mid century modern as we explore their historical contexts, key design elements, and their enduring influence on contemporary interior trends. Whether you're a design enthusiast or a curious newcomer, join us as we navigate the fascinating world where vintage charm meets modern sophistication.
When we talk about "Mid-Century," we're diving into a fascinating era that spans from the start of the 1950s to the end of the 1960s. This period was a golden age for design innovation, giving birth to some truly iconic styles. Today, you can still find amazing rustic and classical table lamps from this era, as well as beautiful Art Deco style hanging lamps that perfectly capture the spirit of the 50s and 60s.
Mid-Century was a time when post-war design blossomed, particularly in the Soviet Union, inspired by the social realist movement. Social Modernism was one of the most impactful movements in 20th-century design history. It rejected historical and conservative values (like realistic depictions of subjects), paving the way for innovation and experimentation with form, including shapes, colors, and lines. This period of design lasted until the late 1980s, making a significant mark on the visual landscape.
what is considered mid century
However, it's essential to make a distinction here: neither all post-war social modernist designs nor all designs from the mid century period are "Mid-Century Modern". While every lamp designed and made in the 1950s-60s qualifies as a mid-century lamp, "Mid-Century Modern" is a specific style. So, not every mid-century lamp falls under this category.
The modernist movement, which laid the groundwork for Mid-Century Modern, started in 1919. It evolved through the Bauhaus era and included influences from De Stijl, eventually leading to what we now recognize as Mid-Century Modern. This style originated in Northern Europe and was pioneered by designers like Poul Henningsen, Alvar Aalto, Stilnovo, Castiglioni brothers among many others.
what is considered mid century modern
mid century modern characteristics
Mid-Century Modern (or MCM) lighting is functional, with no-frills and minimal decorative non-functional parts. The form follows function. Common materials include wood (beech and birch veneer being one of the most popular), metal, plastic, and clear or opaline glass. Fabric is rarely used, and fancy glass like Murano is also uncommon.
The term Mid-Century Modern can be misleading. Many iconic MCM designs predate the 1950s-60s. For example, Alvar Aalto’s famous lamps were designed in the late 1930s, Robert Dudley Best’s first Bestlite dates to 1920, and Poul Henningsen’s PH desk lamp dates to 1927.
What About Later (post Mid Century) Designs?
Lamps made in the 80s and 90s that resemble MCM designs are often referred to as MCM lamps, but they are actually lamps made in the style of Mid-Century Modern.
Authentic Mid Century Modern Lamps Today
Lamps designed in the 1950s-60s and still produced today by manufacturers that own the original rights are considered true Mid-Century Modern lamps.
Summing It Up
Mid-Century: A time frame from the 1950s to the 1960s. Any lamp from this period is a mid-century lamp.
Mid-Century Modern: A style characterized by functional, no-frills design, using specific materials. Only lamps designed in this style, whether from the mid-century period or earlier, can be called Mid-Century Modern lamps.
Understanding these distinctions helps in appreciating the true essence of these timeless designs. Happy lamp hunting!
