Mid Century Modern » mid century modern design http://mid-century-modern.net Online source for your mid century modern life style Thu, 29 Jul 2010 02:33:07 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0 DIY With Make It! Mid Century Modern http://mid-century-modern.net/diy-with-make-it-mid-century-modern/ http://mid-century-modern.net/diy-with-make-it-mid-century-modern/#comments Sun, 31 Jan 2010 18:54:42 +0000 admin http://mid-century-modern.net/?p=1737 Do you need more mid century modern inspired DIY project ideas? I found a perfect how-to book called “Make It! Mid-Century Modern” published by Curbly, the DIY Design Community. This 76-page book contains 12 original projects inspired by iconic mid century designers such as Charles Eames, Alexander Girard, and George Nelson. Make It! Mid-Century Modern “Make It! [...]]]> Do you need more mid century modern inspired DIY project ideas? I found a perfect how-to book called “Make It! Mid-Century Modern” published by Curbly, the DIY Design Community. This 76-page book contains 12 original projects inspired by iconic mid century designers such as Charles Eames, Alexander Girard, and George Nelson.

Make It! Mid-Century Modern

“Make It! Mid-Century Modern” is divided into six chapters according to designer: Charles Eames, Alexander Girard, Alexander Calder, George Nelson, Piet Mondrian, and Eero Saarinen. Each chapter includes designer’s background and DIY projects with user friendly step-by-step instructions and pictures.

One of the easy projects

If you are looking for a simple, easy, yet stylish DIY project, this book is perfect for you. Most of the projects featured here are small and not time consuming. The instructions are very well written with appropriate pictures. The book is available in two formats: high-resolution PDF download (US$9.99) or print version (US$18.00). For more information, visit Curbly website.

or try something more challenging...

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]]> http://mid-century-modern.net/diy-with-make-it-mid-century-modern/feed/ 0 Rejuvenation’s New Mid Century Modern Inspired Light Fixtures http://mid-century-modern.net/rejuvenation-mid-century-modern-inspired-light-fixtures/ http://mid-century-modern.net/rejuvenation-mid-century-modern-inspired-light-fixtures/#comments Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:08:22 +0000 admin http://mid-century-modern.net/?p=1689 Have you been looking for the mid century modern hourglass shaped light fixtures? You may not have to look no further – On February 3, 2010, Rejuvenation is releasing “Hourglass Collection” as an addition to its popular Mid-Century Modern line. Galaxy - Close Up The Hourglass Collection features four handcrafted aluminum light fixtures: Galaxy, Asterix, Vektr, and [...]]]> Have you been looking for the mid century modern hourglass shaped light fixtures? You may not have to look no further – On February 3, 2010, Rejuvenation is releasing “Hourglass Collection” as an addition to its popular Mid-Century Modern line.

Galaxy - Close Up

The Hourglass Collection features four handcrafted aluminum light fixtures: Galaxy, Asterix, Vektr, and Spektr. The design of these light fixtures were inspired by the 1959 Stockholm series from EJS Lighting Corporation. As most of you already know, these iconic hourglass shaped light fixtures were used in many residential and commercial buildings in the 1950’s and 1960’s.

Galaxy in Dining Room

Rejuvenation has done an excellent job – these fixtures are not only historically accurate reproductions, but also customizable to fit your space. Check out their website to learn more about the Hourglass Collection at www.rejuvenation.com/hourglass

Product Pricing & Dimensions
Galaxy Chandelier: 28” in diameter, $399-$699
Asterix Chandelier: 22” in diameter, $379-$679
Spektr Single Wall Bracket 5-1/4” wide $129
Vektr Double Wall Bracket 11-1/2” wide $229

Photos: Courtesy of Rejuvenation

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]]> http://mid-century-modern.net/rejuvenation-mid-century-modern-inspired-light-fixtures/feed/ 1 What Was Good Design? – MoMA Exhibit http://mid-century-modern.net/what-was-good-design-moma-exhibit/ http://mid-century-modern.net/what-was-good-design-moma-exhibit/#comments Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:09:12 +0000 admin http://mid-century-modern.net/?p=1305 What was Good Design?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, [...]]]> 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, a rake, a coffeemaker and Tupperwere, as well as tools, furnishings etc.

What was Good Design?

What was Good Design?

MoMA played an important role in promoting a “Good Design” concept that emerged in the 1930s and continued its development into mid century era. The “Good Design” concept represents the objects that are simple, functional, truth to materials, yet appealing to your eyes. MoMA promoted such concept through a series of five “What is Good Design?” exhibition between 1950-1955, as well as various competitions such as “Printed Textiles for the Home” (1946), “International Competition for Low-Cost Furniture” (1948) and “New Lamps” (1950). 

Examples of Good Design Furniture

Examples of Good Design Furniture

The exhibit includes iconic mid century modern furniture pieces by Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen and Hans Wegner; lighting by George Nelson, textiles by Alexander Girard; dinnerware by Russell Wright; and numerous other familiar objects including kitchen tools, small appliances, a fishing rod, and even an ax! The exhibition is currently running through November 30, 2009. It is well worth a visit along with other great exhibitions.

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]]> http://mid-century-modern.net/what-was-good-design-moma-exhibit/feed/ 0 Mid Century Modern Inspired Art by Jim Ward Morris http://mid-century-modern.net/mid-century-modern-inspired-art-by-jim-ward-morris/ http://mid-century-modern.net/mid-century-modern-inspired-art-by-jim-ward-morris/#comments Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:57:31 +0000 admin http://mid-century-modern.net/?p=1154 MIDCENTURY #16 by Jim Ward MorrisMIDCENTURY #16 by Jim Ward Morris If you are a fan of Atomic Ranch magazine like I am, you probably recognized this fabulous mid century modern inspired art by Jim Ward Morris. I was actually considering purchasing his art work for my newly remodeled bedroom, so I was VERY thrilled when he contacted me to inquire [...]]]> MIDCENTURY #16 by Jim Ward Morris

MIDCENTURY #16 by Jim Ward Morris

If you are a fan of Atomic Ranch magazine like I am, you probably recognized this fabulous mid century modern inspired art by Jim Ward Morris. I was actually considering purchasing his art work for my newly remodeled bedroom, so I was VERY thrilled when he contacted me to inquire about featuring his work on this website. The new works by Jim Ward Morris are titled “MIDCENTURY” and “POSTMODERN.” According to his website, his work has been described as “imagery inspired by advertising from the 1950′s & 1960′s, certainly Joan Holloway and the Sterling Cooper Advertising Agency (from the TV show MadMen) would absolutely love this work.” Jim Ward Morris received a MFA from California Institute of the Arts. He lives in Bellingham, Washington with his wife and two children.

POSTMODERN #08 by Jim Ward Morris

POSTMODERN #08 by Jim Ward Morris

You can view the new work by Jim Ward Morris at WWW.JIMWARDMORRIS.COM – Each print is a deluxe Archival Digital Print, available in two image sizes: 6″x6″ and 12″x12″ (MIDCENTURY series) and 9″x3″ and 18″x6″ (POSTMODERN series). Each print is produced as museum quality fine art with extra long life and comes with “Certificate of Authenticity.”

MIDCENTURY #13 by Jim Ward Morris

MIDCENTURY #13 by Jim Ward Morris

Also check out the JIM WARD MORRIS BLOG commentary inspired by mid-century, mod, postmodern & retro, architecture, art, design, fashion, film, furniture, music,
pop culture & urban life at WWW.JIMWARDMORRIS.BLOGSPOT.COM

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]]> http://mid-century-modern.net/mid-century-modern-inspired-art-by-jim-ward-morris/feed/ 0 Bullet Planter http://mid-century-modern.net/bullet-planter/ http://mid-century-modern.net/bullet-planter/#comments Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:53:28 +0000 admin http://mid-century-modern.net/?p=1031 Bullet Planter from Design Within ReachBullet planters would probably be the first choice for many mid century modern enthusiasts when adding plants to their homes. The colorful, conical fiberglass bowl nested in a tripod stand adds a finishing touch to any mid century modern inspired spaces. Now, it is obvious that history of the bullet planter dates back to the [...]]]> Bullet planters would probably be the first choice for many mid century modern enthusiasts when adding plants to their homes. The colorful, conical fiberglass bowl nested in a tripod stand adds a finishing touch to any mid century modern inspired spaces. Now, it is obvious that history of the bullet planter dates back to the 1950s, but have you ever wondered its origin? Who designed the bullet planter?

 

Bullet Planter from Design Within Reach

Bullet Planter from Design Within Reach

The original bullet planters were manufactured by several different manufacturers in the 1950s including the Kimball Mfg. Corp of San Francisco. However, none of the manufacturers trademarked the design. Thus, the designer had never been identified. Design Within Reach shares a theory that when a man brought home a molded fiberglass conical used as satellite dish his company made, his wife suggested to use it as a planter. Nobody can confirm this story, but it’s interesting.

 

Today, reproduction bullet planters are available in many colors and three height choices from several different companies. The bowls are made from durable, compression-molded fiberglass with integral pigment and the tripod stands are made of powder-coated steel. The price varies, usually running from $100 to $150, depending on the height of the stand. If you are looking for a vintage piece, try eBay by entering keywords like “bullet planter,” “tripod planter,” “fiberglass planter”, “retro planter,” “eames era planter,” and “egg planter.” Try alternating “planter” with “plant stand” as well.

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]]> http://mid-century-modern.net/bullet-planter/feed/ 0 Tips for Buying Mid Century Modern Furniture http://mid-century-modern.net/tips-for-buying-mid-century-modern-furniture/ http://mid-century-modern.net/tips-for-buying-mid-century-modern-furniture/#comments Tue, 17 Feb 2009 23:22:39 +0000 admin http://mid-century-modern.net/?p=18 Eames RockerMid century modern furniture are known for its simple, clean lines and organic shapes. It is sleek and elegant, yet functional. Whether collecting only the ones designed by a specific mid century designer or collecting anything that appeal to your eyes, it is always exciting to acquire furniture you love piece by piece. Here you [...]]]> Eames RockerMid century modern furniture are known for its simple, clean lines and organic shapes. It is sleek and elegant, yet functional. Whether collecting only the ones designed by a specific mid century designer or collecting anything that appeal to your eyes, it is always exciting to acquire furniture you love piece by piece. Here you will find some simple tips on buying mid century modern furniture.

  1. Know What You Want - Before you head to a store or shop online, be sure to know exactly what you are looking for. Do you have a particular designer or style in your mind? Do you want the vintage originals or licensed reproduction? Have some ideas on colors and materials that match your style and needs to achieve some sort of cohesiveness. You may also take the size and shape of your space into consideration to avoid cluttering the space. Keep it minimum – that’s what mid century modern is all about.
  2. Knowledge – Collect information on the pieces you are seeking. Invest on some books on mid century modern designs. You may also visit modern museums, galleries and shops.
  3. Identification - You must be able to identify and recognize an authentic piece to avoid wasting your money on a knockoff. Look for any labels and markings to identify its authenticity.
  4. Condition – Inspect the condition of the piece carefully. Expect normal wear and tear from the original pieces due to thier age and usage. If restoration is required, will you be able to restore without disturbing its integrity?
  5. Affordability – Many pieces, especially the vintage original one by the well-known designers can be pricey. Set a limit on what you want to spend. Buying a licensed reproduction is another option if you cannot afford the vintage piece. Also, don’t be afraid to haggle when making a purchase.

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