Mid Century Modern » mid century modern design http://mid-century-modern.net Online source for your mid century modern life style Wed, 07 Dec 2011 02:15:54 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3 Rejuvenation’s Newest Addition to Mid-Century Modern Collection http://mid-century-modern.net/rejuvenation%e2%80%99s-newest-addition-to-mid-century-modern-collection/ http://mid-century-modern.net/rejuvenation%e2%80%99s-newest-addition-to-mid-century-modern-collection/#comments Thu, 21 Jul 2011 03:32:20 +0000 admin http://mid-century-modern.net/?p=3212 Rejuvenation GeminiI have been eyeing Rejuvenation’s Mid-Century Modern Collection for a while. When I get a “real” mid-century modern ranch dream house (my current house was built in 1955, but it does not have the right look), I already know where to go for lighting and cabinet hardware – but what about bath hardware and door [...]]]> I have been eyeing Rejuvenation’s Mid-Century Modern Collection for a while. When I get a “real” mid-century modern ranch dream house (my current house was built in 1955, but it does not have the right look), I already know where to go for lighting and cabinet hardware – but what about bath hardware and door hardware? Good news to me and fellow mid-century modern enthusiasts, Rejuvenation recently added fabulous new lighting, bath hardware and exterior door hardware to their Mid-Century Modern Collection.

Gemini Lighting:
The Gemini, featuring dual-cone shades, is based on a popular fixture offered by Prescolite in the early 1960s and complements Rejuvenation’s existing hourglass lighting collection. Gemini is available in Brushed Aluminum with a choice of shiny opal or etched opal hand-blown glass shades. Price with shades: $175

Rejuvenation Gemini

Gemini

Casper Lighting:

The Casper is a simple, yet stylish flush-mount fixture. “Starlight” pinholes and a saucer shaped shade add a subtle space-age feel to the design. Available in Brushed Aluminum or Bronzetone finishes. Price with shade: $155

Rejuvenation Casper

Casper

Bath Hardware:
Rejuvenation’s introduces period-authentic new bath collection. The square backplate (or diamond when turned on end) hails from the Hall-Mack Aristochrome Series of the 1950s and 1960s, while the star option, with its twinkling space-age optimism, fell from the Star Line by Bush Bros.

Rejuvenation Mid-Century Modern Towel Ring

Towel Ring

The bath collection includes: towel ring set, single hook, double hook, 14” and 20” tempered glass shelf set, toilet paper holder and towel bar sets (18”, 24”, and 30”). All bath hardware comes in Polished Chrome or Brushed Chrome. Prices range from $23-$90.

Doorsets:

Rejuvenation’s new Mid-Century Modern exterior doorsets feature three iconic shapes from the 1950s and 1960s: the star, the square, and the circle. Whatever the shape you choose, it is a perfect complement for your mid-modern ranch home or any sleek contemporary architecture.

Rejuvenation MCM Wide Star Doorset

Wide Star Doorset

Doorsets are made in solid brass and available in three period-authentic finishes: Brushed Chrome, Polished Chrome, and Lacquered Brass. These doorsets are designed to fit the Schlage Orb door set, but can be purchased separately. Matching star, square or circle doorbell buttons also available to complete the look. Prices from $22-$228

About Rejuvenation:
Rejuvenation was founded in 1977 with a passion for old houses and buildings. Inspired by history, period-authenticity and customer creativity, Rejuvenation’s diverse line spans the 1870s to 1960s. Collections include: Victorian, Period Basics, Classical Revival, Old World, Arts & Crafts, Colonial Revival, Mid-Century Modern and Deco. Products are sold through the company’s catalogue, retail stores in Portland, Ore. and Seattle, Wash, and website www.rejuvenation.com.

Photo and Product Information: Courtesy of N. Curcio @ Rejuvenation

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]]> http://mid-century-modern.net/rejuvenation%e2%80%99s-newest-addition-to-mid-century-modern-collection/feed/ 0 Bullet Planters by Hip Haven http://mid-century-modern.net/bullet-planters-by-hip-haven/ http://mid-century-modern.net/bullet-planters-by-hip-haven/#comments Tue, 01 Feb 2011 20:56:53 +0000 admin http://mid-century-modern.net/?p=3064 Love them all!I am sure you all have heard of Hip Haven’s bullet planters (and probably have one or two), but I wanted to dedicate a page on them. There is already a post about bullet planters, but no mention about Hip Haven there. After posting it, I received an email from Kelly Sandidge, the owner of [...]]]> I am sure you all have heard of Hip Haven’s bullet planters (and probably have one or two), but I wanted to dedicate a page on them. There is already a post about bullet planters, but no mention about Hip Haven there. After posting it, I received an email from Kelly Sandidge, the owner of Hip Haven, Inc. with more information on the present-day bullet planters. I thought I’d share it with fellow mid-century modern lovers.

Short Bullet Planter in Rattan

In the previous post about bullet planters, I shared the story about the origin of the bullet planters I read on Design Within Reach website. In the post, I said, “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.” The information to this story was actually given to DWR by Kelly (Hip Haven supplies DWR). The story was shared with her by an older gentleman who saw the article on her company (Hip Haven) in the San Francisco Chronicle and told her what he knew about bullet planters. Kelly recalls, “Of course, it could just be one of many instances where a parabolic bowl was placed in a tripod stand and used as a planter and might not have been the original source of the idea, but I thought it was a neat story so I passed it along.”

Love them all!

Austin, Texas based Hip Haven, Inc. is the sole manufacturer of the present-day bullet planters since 2002. Their planters are made in the exact same manner as the mid-century ones, with some improvements in the UV-resistance of the pigments, and a much broader color palette (16 in all, including rattan). The bowls are made from durable, compression-molded fiberglass with integral pigment and the tripod stands are made of powder-coated steel. There are three choices in height of the stands (short – 16”, med – 23”, tall – 30”). The price varies, usually running from $145 to $160, depending on the height of the stand. Visit Hip Haven website for more information. Also be sure to “Like” Hip Haven on their Facebook page – they post a discount coupon code time to time on their wall.

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]]> http://mid-century-modern.net/bullet-planters-by-hip-haven/feed/ 0 Mid Century Modern Doors By Crestview Doors http://mid-century-modern.net/mid-century-modern-doors-by-crestview-doors/ http://mid-century-modern.net/mid-century-modern-doors-by-crestview-doors/#comments Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:49:19 +0000 admin http://mid-century-modern.net/?p=2630 Choosing a front door that will complement your mid century modern/ranch style home can be difficult – especially if you are looking locally. Crestview Doors make everything much easier for those who are in a market for a perfect mid century modern doors. A door like this can be yours... Crestview Doors offer a variety of affordable, [...]]]> Choosing a front door that will complement your mid century modern/ranch style home can be difficult – especially if you are looking locally. Crestview Doors make everything much easier for those who are in a market for a perfect mid century modern doors.

A door like this can be yours...

Crestview Doors offer a variety of affordable, yet high quality products including Doorlite kits (vision inserts) and mod millwork inspired by mid century modern architecture. This Austin-based company was started by David and Christinane Erwin in 2006. When the couple was remodeling their 1951 cottage, they couldn’t find a period appropriate front door. They made a replica by measuring one of their neighbor’s doors – Their effort was successfully turned into a business. Their product line is based on through research to represent authentic mid century modern design.

Mod Millwork

The Doorlite kit is an ideal choice for a do-it-yourselfers who are looking for an affordable mid century modern door. The kit adds windows to any flush interior or exterior door for a mid century look and feel by simply cutting holes in the door and applying the new windows in the layout of your choice. With over 50 design choices, you will be able to find the right door to match your mid century modern home.

Doorlite kit installation

Crestview Doors also offer sidelights and transoms to compliment your Doorlight kit order. Sidelights and transoms are either “sash,” meaning that the glass has been installed into a unit that matches the door and installs much like a stationary door or is attached to the entire entry system to comprise a single unit, or they are “direct-set,” meaning that the glass is installed into a frame made of jamb material and is installed directly between two studs. Most mid century modern homes have direct-set sidelights.

House Numbers

Their website has many other informative videos, articles and how-to’s as well. So, check Crestview Doors’ website – even if you are not looking for a mid century modern door! Be sure to check out the house numbers, too.

Company Information
Crestview Doors, Inc
Address: 501 W Powell Lane, Suite 204, Austin, TX 78753
Phone: 866-454-6302
Fax: 866-454-6470
Email: info@crestviewdoors.com
Website: http://www.crestviewdoors.com

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]]> http://mid-century-modern.net/mid-century-modern-doors-by-crestview-doors/feed/ 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/ 1 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 retailers. 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/ 2 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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