Are you ready to bring some retro flair to your living space? Mid-century modern design is making a comeback, and it’s the perfect way to add color and style to your home. This iconic look from the 1950s and 60s is all about clean lines, bold hues, and fun patterns.
Adding color to your mid-century modern living room can create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. You don’t have to stick to neutral tones – bright oranges, cool blues, and sunny yellows can all work well in this style. From colorful sofas to eye-catching wall art, there are lots of ways to make your space pop. Let’s explore some ideas to help you create a mid-century modern living room that’s both stylish and full of personality.
1. Bold Geometric Wallpaper
Want to make a big statement in your mid-century modern living room? Try bold geometric wallpaper! This eye-catching design element can transform a plain wall into a work of art.
Pick patterns with sharp angles, repeating shapes, or abstract designs. Bright colors like orange, teal, or yellow can really pop against neutral furniture.
Use geometric wallpaper on one accent wall to create a focal point. Or go all out and cover the whole room for a daring look. It’s a fun way to add personality to your space!
2. Eames Lounge Chair
The Eames Lounge Chair is a classic mid-century modern piece that can add style to your living room. This iconic chair features a sleek wood veneer shell and supple leather upholstery.
You can make it a cozy reading nook by placing it near a window with good natural light. Add a small side table for your books and a soft throw blanket for extra comfort.
To tie the Eames chair into your decor, try pairing it with accent pillows or artwork in earthy tones like mustard yellow or olive green. This will create a cohesive mid-century vibe in your space.
3. Tulip Coffee Table
The Tulip coffee table is a classic mid-century modern piece that can add a pop of color to your living room. Its unique pedestal base and round top create a sleek, sculptural look.
You can find Tulip tables in vibrant hues like red, yellow, or blue to make a bold statement. For a more subtle touch, try white or black versions.
Pair your Tulip coffee table with curved sofas or armchairs to complement its organic shape. Add some colorful accessories on top to tie the look together.
4. Sputnik Chandelier
A Sputnik chandelier can add a stellar touch to your mid-century modern living room. This iconic light fixture takes its name from the first artificial satellite launched in 1957.
With its starburst design and multiple arms, a Sputnik chandelier creates a eye-catching focal point. You can find these lights in various sizes and finishes to suit your space.
Try pairing a gold Sputnik chandelier with colorful furniture for a bold, retro look. Or choose a sleek black version for a more understated vibe. These versatile lights work well in both large and small rooms.
5. Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair
The Egg Chair is a true mid-century modern icon. Designed in 1958 by Danish architect Arne Jacobsen, it’s perfect for adding a pop of color to your living room.
You can find this chair in many vibrant hues. It’s super comfy and gives your space a cool, retro vibe. The unique shape makes it a real eye-catcher.
Try pairing your Egg Chair with other mid-century pieces for a cohesive look. It works great as a statement piece in any corner of your living room.
6. Colorful Sectional Sofa
A colorful sectional sofa can be the star of your mid-century modern living room. You can find these in fun shades like navy blue, vibrant orange, or even bright yellow.
Look for sofas with clean lines and tapered legs to match the mid-century style. Fabric upholstery is a great choice for comfort and style.
You can pair your colorful sectional with neutral walls and accessories to let it stand out. Or go bold and mix it with other colorful pieces for a lively, eclectic look.
7. Retro Floor Lamp
A retro floor lamp can be the star of your mid-century modern living room. Look for designs with long, arching arms that reach over your seating area. These lamps often have large, dome-shaped shades in bold colors like orange or yellow.
You might also find lamps with multiple adjustable heads, perfect for directing light where you need it. Don’t forget about materials – brass and wood were popular in mid-century design. Choose a lamp that matches your room’s color scheme and adds a touch of vintage charm.
8. Danish Teak Sideboard
A Danish teak sideboard can add a touch of timeless elegance to your mid-century modern living room. These beautiful pieces often feature clean lines and simple designs.
You’ll find them with smooth surfaces and tapered legs, perfect for displaying decor or storing items. Many have adjustable shelves and drawers for versatility.
Look for sideboards made in the 1960s for authentic vintage charm. They work well as TV stands or buffets, bringing both style and function to your space.
9. Saarinen Womb Chair
The Saarinen Womb Chair is a perfect addition to your mid-century modern living room. Designed in 1948 by Eero Saarinen, this iconic piece offers both style and comfort.
Its unique shape cradles you like a cozy basket of pillows. You can find it in various bright colors to match your decor. The chair’s organic form and plush cushioning make it ideal for relaxing after a long day.
Try pairing your Womb Chair with a colorful throw pillow or blanket for extra flair. It’s a timeless piece that will make your living space feel both chic and inviting.
10. Mosaic Tile Rug
Bring a splash of color to your mid-century modern living room with a mosaic tile rug. This unique floor feature adds texture and visual interest. You can choose geometric patterns or abstract designs in bold hues.
Install the mosaic tiles directly on your floor or create a removable version using a backing board. This eye-catching element will become a focal point in your space.
Pick colors that complement your existing decor. Blues, oranges, and greens work well in mid-century schemes. Your mosaic tile rug will tie the room together while adding a fun, retro touch.
11. Danish Modern Coffee Table
Danish modern coffee tables bring sleek style to your mid-century living room. These tables often feature teak wood with clean lines and tapered legs. You can find round, oval, or rectangular shapes to suit your space.
Look for tables with minimalist designs and smooth surfaces. Some have built-in storage or magazine racks underneath. Pair your Danish coffee table with colorful seating for a vibrant retro look.
12. Iconic Sunburst Clock
Add a touch of Mid-Century Modern flair to your living room with a sunburst clock. These eye-catching timepieces feature radial spokes that resemble sun rays, creating a striking focal point on your wall.
You can find sunburst clocks in various sizes and finishes to suit your space. Choose from gold, brass, or copper tones for a warm, vintage look. Or opt for a wooden version for a more natural feel.
Place your sunburst clock above a sleek sideboard or center it on an accent wall to make a bold statement. It’s a fun and functional way to embrace the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic in your colorful living room.
13. Colorful Abstract Art
Bright abstract art can bring energy to your mid-century modern living room. Look for pieces with bold shapes and vivid colors that match your decor. Hang a large canvas above the sofa as a focal point.
Try grouping smaller abstract prints together to create a gallery wall. Mix different sizes and styles for visual interest. You can also add sculptural pieces or mobiles for a 3D element.
Abstract art lets you play with color without overwhelming the space. Choose art that complements your furniture and ties the room together. Don’t be afraid to go bold – abstract pieces are meant to make a statement!
14. Vintage Record Player
A vintage record player can be the perfect centerpiece for your mid-century modern living room. You can find refurbished models from the 1950s and 60s or opt for a new player with retro styling.
Place your record player on a sleek wood console table or shelf. Display your favorite vinyl albums nearby to create a nostalgic vibe. Add some colorful album artwork to the walls for extra visual interest.
When not in use, your record player doubles as a unique decorative piece. It brings authentic mid-century charm to your space while letting you enjoy the warm sound of vinyl.
15. Pop Art Wall Prints
Want to add a burst of color and personality to your mid-century modern living room? Pop art wall prints are the perfect solution! These eye-catching pieces bring a fun, retro vibe to any space.
Look for prints featuring bold colors and iconic imagery from the 1950s and 60s. Think Andy Warhol-style soup cans or Roy Lichtenstein-inspired comic book scenes.
You can mix and match different sizes and styles to create an eclectic gallery wall. Or make a statement with one large pop art piece as a focal point. The vibrant colors will complement your mid-century furniture beautifully.
16. Mid-Century Bar Cart
A bar cart adds a fun and functional touch to your mid-century modern living room. Look for a cart with sleek lines and tapered legs in materials like wood or metal.
Choose a cart with wheels for easy movement during parties. Stock it with vintage glassware and a few colorful bottles to create a eye-catching display.
Don’t forget to add some greenery or a small lamp to complete the look. A bar cart is perfect for mixing drinks and storing bar essentials while adding retro charm to your space.
17. Nelson Saucer Pendant
The Nelson Saucer Pendant is a classic mid-century modern light fixture that can add a touch of style to your living room. Its sleek, saucer-like shape creates a soft, diffused glow that’s perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere.
You can hang a single pendant as a focal point over a coffee table or group several together at different heights for a more dramatic effect. The clean lines and simple design of the Nelson Saucer Pendant work well with many color schemes and decor styles.
Choose from different sizes to fit your space. The pendant comes in various colors, so you can pick one that matches or contrasts with your room’s palette.
18. Retro TV Console
A retro TV console can be the perfect focal point for your mid-century modern living room. Look for a low-slung wooden cabinet with tapered legs and clean lines. These pieces often feature sliding doors or open shelving to display your vintage knick-knacks.
Choose a console in teak, walnut, or oak to match the warm wood tones popular in mid-century design. Add a modern flat-screen TV on top for a fun blend of old and new styles. You can also use the surface to showcase a few carefully chosen decorative items.
19. Bertoia Side Chair
The Bertoia Side Chair adds a fun pop of color to your mid-century modern living room. This iconic piece features a wire-form base with a bright, flexible seat.
You can choose from various vibrant hues to match your decor. The chair’s organic shape and airy design make it both comfy and visually appealing.
Place a Bertoia Side Chair next to your sofa or use a pair to flank a side table. It’s a great way to bring some retro flair to your space.
20. Vintage Glassware Set
Add a pop of color to your mid-century modern living room with a vintage glassware set. Look for pieces in vibrant hues like amber, teal, or ruby red.
Display your collection on a sleek bar cart or open shelving unit. Mix different shapes and sizes for visual interest.
Choose glassware with unique patterns or textures to catch the light. This simple touch can bring warmth and character to your space while staying true to the mid-century aesthetic.
21. Shag Area Rug
A shag rug can add a cozy touch to your mid-century modern living room. These plush rugs were popular in the 1960s and 70s. They’re making a comeback now.
You can find shag rugs in many colors. Try a bold orange or teal to match your retro decor. Or pick a neutral cream or gray for a more subtle look.
Place your shag rug under the coffee table. It will feel soft under your feet when you sit on the sofa. The rug’s texture will contrast nicely with sleek furniture.
22. Mad Men-style Armchair
Want to add a touch of retro cool to your living room? Try a Mad Men-style armchair. These chairs have sleek lines and tapered legs that scream 1960s chic.
Look for one in rich leather or bold fabric. Colors like olive green, mustard yellow, or deep orange work well. Place it near a window or fireplace for a cozy reading nook.
Don’t forget to accessorize. Add a small side table and floor lamp to complete the look. You’ll feel like Don Draper in no time!
23. Swan Chair by Arne Jacobsen
The Swan Chair is a mid-century modern icon you’ll love in your living room. Designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1958, it’s known for its curvy shape and comfy seat.
You can find the Swan Chair in many fun colors to brighten up your space. Its smooth lines and swivel base make it both stylish and practical.
This chair works great as a statement piece or paired with other mid-century furniture. You’ll enjoy how it adds a touch of Danish design to your home.
24. Classic Vinyl Collection
A vinyl record collection adds retro charm to your mid-century modern living room. Display your favorite albums on floating shelves or a dedicated record cabinet. Choose album covers with bold colors and eye-catching designs to create a vibrant focal point.
You can also set up a turntable on a sleek console table. This not only looks great but lets you enjoy your music collection too. Don’t forget to include some comfy seating nearby so you can relax while listening to your favorite tunes.
25. Bright Velvet Cushions
Bright velvet cushions can transform your mid-century modern living room. Choose bold colors like orange, teal, or mustard to add a pop of vibrancy.
Mix different sizes and shapes for visual interest. Round pillows pair well with square ones on your sofa or armchair.
The plush texture of velvet adds warmth and luxury to your space. It contrasts nicely with the sleek lines of mid-century furniture.
Remember to balance bright cushions with neutral elements in your room. This keeps the look cohesive and not overwhelming.
26. Brass Legged Furniture
Add a touch of glam to your mid-century modern living room with brass-legged furniture. You can find sleek coffee tables, side tables, and consoles with shiny brass legs that catch the eye.
These pieces bring warmth and a bit of luxury to your space. Try pairing a brass-legged table with a colorful sofa or armchair for a bold look. The contrast between the metal and fabric creates visual interest.
Don’t go overboard – one or two brass-legged items is enough to make a statement without overwhelming the room. This trend works well with both neutral and vibrant color schemes.
27. Atomic Ranch Planter
Want to add a pop of color to your mid-century modern living room? Try an Atomic Ranch planter! These funky, retro-inspired planters come in bright colors and cool shapes.
You can find bullet planters, globe-shaped pots, and stackable options to suit your style. Place one by your sofa or group a few together for a bold statement.
Fill your planter with a trendy houseplant like a prayer plant or another air-purifying variety. It’s an easy way to bring some life and personality into your space.
28. Retro Wall Shelf
Add a pop of vintage charm to your mid-century modern living room with a retro wall shelf. Pick a shelf with clean lines and tapered legs for that classic 1950s look.
Choose wood tones like teak or walnut to match your other furniture. Or go bold with a colorful shelf in mustard yellow or avocado green.
Display your favorite knick-knacks, small plants, or vintage items on the shelf. Mix in some modern pieces too for an updated twist on mid-century style.
29. Playful Throw Blanket
Add a fun pop of color to your mid-century modern living room with a playful throw blanket. Choose one with bold geometric patterns or bright hues to liven up your space.
Drape it over the arm of your sofa or across the back of a lounge chair. This simple touch can bring warmth and personality to your room.
Look for throws made of soft, cozy materials like cotton or wool. They’ll keep you comfy while adding visual interest to your mid-century decor.
30. Patterned Curtain Drapes
Patterned curtain drapes can bring a burst of color and style to your mid-century modern living room. You can find drapes with geometric shapes, retro prints, and bold designs that fit perfectly with the era’s aesthetic.
Look for curtains featuring mid-century patterns like starbursts, atomic shapes, or abstract designs. These eye-catching window treatments will add visual interest to your space and tie your decor together.
Choose colors that complement your existing furniture and walls. Rich oranges, deep greens, or vibrant blues can create a striking focal point in your living room.
