Design Through the Decades: 7 Timeless Interior Elements from the 1950s to 1960s That Are Back In Style
Experts share how to bring mid-century modern charm into your home with clean lines, natural materials, and iconic lighting.
The 1950s and 1960s marked a shift toward simplicity and function, where homes embraced open spaces, natural light, and sleek, thoughtful design. Think warm wood tones, minimalist furniture, and sculptural lighting fixtures like Sputnik chandeliers. Whether you’re styling a retro ranch house in Palm Springs or adding personality to a city apartment in Chicago, the mid-century modern era offers design elements that feel fresh and timeless. To help you channel this classic look, we asked design experts to share their favorite ways to bring mid-century style into today’s homes—without losing that signature charm.
1. Opt for statement lighting with bold patterns and craftsmanship
“The enduring appeal of 1950s and 1960s design lies in its focus on statement lighting and masterful craftsmanship,” explains Ashlee Barclay from Admiral Landings Designs. “This era’s genius was its ability to harmonize function and simplicity—a concept that continues to profoundly influence modern design. This influence is especially evident in contemporary statement lighting. In our lampshade designs, we aim to recapture the era’s bold patterns and colors, thoughtfully integrated with the principles of standout lighting, and handcrafted with meticulous care.”
2. Reinterpret iconic furniture silhouettes for today
“MCM’s mastery of function, simplicity, and the celebration of natural wood is something I strive to incorporate in all my pieces. Often, I’ll take a small element or idea from the work of Hans Wegner, Finn Juhl, or Arne Jacobsen and put a spin on it in a more contemporary context—this could mean turning a ’50s handle silhouette into the inside sweep of a chair leg,” shares Richard England, Founder, Designer & Maker at Glencairn Furniture. “The sleek and elegant lines of mid-century modern design allow it to work across a range of interior settings, from period homes to ultramodern spaces.”
3. Warm up modern spaces with mid-century shapes and lighting
“Mid-century design from the 1950s–60s remains timeless, and I love incorporating its clean lines, organic shapes, and warm wood tones into modern interiors,” says Angela from Angela Wells Interior Design. “One of my favorite elements is statement lighting—sculptural pendants and bold fixtures that double as art. I often pair vintage-inspired silhouettes with contemporary finishes for a fresh take that feels both nostalgic and current. These pieces add soul and character, seamlessly blending with today’s minimalist or transitional spaces.”
4. Let architecture shine in mid-century homes
“Mid-century design and architecture have been—and will continue to be—an element in our Palm Springs area that resonates throughout the years,” says Benjamin Duman of Duman Realty Group. “My passion for the era comes from the clean, open concepts that can be integrated into the flow of a property with simplicity and structure in mind. Even today, modern design still reflects the character of the 1950s, demonstrating the lasting influence this architecture has on us as generations pass. Designs from that time are so beloved, they will always be sought after for their clean lines and vast windows, welcoming in the brightness we all seek in what we call home.”
5. Embrace bold color and Danish influence
“My love for 1950s–1960s designs comes from living in a 1969 mid-century modern post-and-beam rancher designed by a female architect. It’s also heavily influenced by Danish modern and space-age futuristic aesthetics,” mentions Greta Jensen at 605MOD. “Danish modern design in architecture and furniture is all about beauty through thoughtful functionality, minimal profiles, and pieces that serve a clear purpose in their environment. My love for the ’50s and ’60s wouldn’t be complete without bold, bright, and warm colors that create an inviting space that’s truly stood the test of time. I’m a huge fan of wallpaper—the bolder, the better. Bonus points if it’s vintage!”
6. Keep it simple for timeless appeal
“One word to summarize mid-century design is ‘timeless.’ The sleek simplicity works in any era,” shares Caroline Nicol from Moody Wood Furniture. “Take a mid-century lounge chair and put it in your home today—you’ll be able to enjoy it for decades to come. It’s functional beauty that effortlessly fits into your decor, even as your tastes evolve.”
7. Layer in textures and bold forms of the ‘60s
“We love that this era embodies such a diverse range of work,” says Martin from Barnabas. “Textures, bold forms, and loud color combinations loom large. The fact that much of the furniture is so well-made means the aesthetic survives the flip-flop of trends. 1960s furniture has a story to tell—and it will keep shouting about it for another generation.”
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