6 Iconic Mid-Century Modern Pieces That Are Still Loved Today

Words by: Hanan Khair

Why is mid-century modern still so relevant? Well, the clean lines, organic shapes and innovative designs simply have a timeless appeal that’s pretty hard to beat.

As the name suggests, mid-century modern is the name of a style of design and architecture from the middle of the 20th century, usually seen as spanning from the mid-1940s until the late 1960s. Pieces from the mid-20th century bear a classic but strangely contemporary look, making them versatile and adaptable, even amidst recent trends.

A number of designers and architects who were active during this period created furniture pieces that have gone on to become modern classics, including chairs by Ray and Charles Eames and lights by Isamu Noguchi.

Here, we have gathered some of the most iconic mid-century modern pieces that are still loved today.

Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Charles and Ray Eames, 1956

This timeless pair has become a benchmark for modern design, admired not only for its sculptural form but also for its everyday functionality. Launched in 1956 by designer duo Charles and Ray Eames, the Eames chair is a modern take on the traditional English club chair that strikes the perfect balance between modernism and warmth. Designed with ergonomics and relaxation in mind, its reclining angle, plush cushions and supportive backrest make it ideal for long periods of lounging, reading or working.

Arco Floor Lamp by Achille Castiglioni and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, 1962

Designed by two Italian brothers Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, the Arco floor lamp has become a design classic. With a polished aluminium domed shade and Carrara marble base, the lamp is both heavy and tall, and its telescopic arm adjusts to provide the perfect arc. Its stylised but rotund figure has starred in all types of modern spaces, from offices to living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, hotel lobbies, restaurants, etc.

Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen, 1960

The Egg chair, created by renowned designer Arne Jacobsen, is a masterpiece of Danish design. It was one of the pieces he created specifically for the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen. Made from a polyurethane foam shell that is padded with cold foam and upholstered, and stands on a satin polished steel pedestal and aluminium base, its design is striking and unusual. The curves create a wrapping effect that oozes comfort and style.

Tulip Table by Eero Saarinen, 1958

Designed by Finnish architect Eero Saarinen, the Tulip table was part of a collection nicknamed the ‘Pedestal collection’ that also includes chairs and armchairs. The table is characterised by a top that seems to float in balance on a thin, tulip-shaped base, hence the name Tulip, designed to eliminate the “problem” of table legs and to offer a sensation of lightness. It is often crafted from marble or wood and stands proudly on a pedestal that is as sturdy as it is stylish.

PH 5 Pendant Lamp, by Poul Henningsen, 1958

The iconic PH 5 Pendant lamp was designed by Poul Henningsen as part of his lifelong pursuit of creating perfectly glare-free lighting. With the PH 5, he created a three-shade system that creates fully glare-free, downward-directed light that could accommodate various bulbs. The curved shades of the lamp hide the bulb inside and reflect light in a soft way that allows it to cast a glare-free glow around a room.

Diamond Chair, by Harry Bertoia, 1952

In 1951, Harry Bertoia’s innovative wire chairs were produced for the manufacturer Knoll, with his most famous being the Diamond chair. Crafted with welded steel construction and Rilsan-coated rods, the chair is a masterpiece of space, form, and function. The Rilsan finish is highly durable, scratch-resistant, and offers protection against chips and chemicals. The stainless steel connections ensure maximum strength and stability.

Images courtesy of Pinterest.