Mid Century Modern

Vitra recently reissued three wall clocks: Flock of Butterflies clock (1955), Polygon clock (1961) and Wheel clock (1961). Vitra produces George Nelson Clocks using the same design specifications as their original manufacturer, the Howard Miller Clock Company.
Flock of Butterflies Clock
George Nelson clocks were originally manufactured by the Howard Miller Clock Company. When originally manufactured, [...]

When you think of mid century modern clocks, what comes to your mind? George Nelson clocks? I am a big fan of George Nelson clocks – they are unique, colorful, and aesthetic. All I knew was that they were designed by George Nelson (duh…), originally manufactured by Howard Miller and reintroduced by Vitra in the [...]

Visiting the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) was the highlight of my recent New York City trip. I was especially looking forward to seeing an exhibit called “What was Good Design? MoMA’s Message 1944-56,” a presentation of over 100 objects from the Museum’s design collection. These objects include ordinary household items such as a broom, [...]

Alexander Girard (1907-1993) was widely known for his textile design which introduced vibrant colors and playful patterns to mid century modern design.  Girard was born in New York City to an American mother and an Italian father, but raised in Florence, Italy. Girard studied architecture in Europe. He returned to the United States in 1932, and started [...]

Nelson Ball Clock – photo by m.bibelot
Unlike many other mid century modern designers, George Nelson (1904 – 1986) started out his career as a writer. After studying architecture at Yale University, Nelson spent a few years in Europe to learn about modern European architecture. He interviewed many leading European architects and brought his knowledge home [...]