Key Elements As with any style, mid-century includes specific key elements.  As a homeowner, you can include all of the elements, but some people find it very overwhelming in trying to create a replica. – Functionality is Important – You should have minimal ornamentation – A variety of traditional, as well as nontraditional materials, can be used – Uncluttered and organized with sleek lines – Both organic and geometric forms In terms of purchasing pieces such as furniture; one of the biggest reasons its actually okay to veer off from an exact replica is that a lot of the pieces from that era can be very expensive!  If you can find a piece that is similar or find a piece that has been copied, that would be a better fit for your budget.

Common Materials Used

One of the most common materials used in a mid-century home that is considered a traditional material is wood.  However, you can also use non-traditional materials such as faux wood.

Famous Examples Of Mid-Century Homes

Not only are there famous mid-century architects like George Nelson, Verner Panton and Alexander Girard, but there are also homes that are still standing to this day that you can check out to get a better feel for what mid-century really means in terms of materials, colors used, and of course, architectural details.  Some of the homes you can check out are either still standing as residences, turned into museums or house organizations.

Some of These Homes Include:

Farnsworth House – Designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in 1951 Stahl House – Designed by Pierre Koenig in 1960 Neutra VDL Studio and Residence – designed originally in 1933 by Richard Neutra but was rebuilt after a fire in 1966 The Philip Johnson Glass House – Designed by Architect Philip Johnson in 1949. If you would like more information on ways to use architectural products to create a mid-century look for your home, visit Volterra Architectural Products to view our catalog or call 602-258-7373.