Style ideas

Mid-century modern living room ideas

Mid-century modern has never gone out of style: warm wood, clean lines and a little bit of optimism.

Modern living room after a Redecorly redesign — Modern living room — a real Redecorly redesign of one of our test photos. Drag the handle to compare.

The same living room before, as photographed — Modern living room — a real Redecorly redesign of one of our test photos. Drag the handle to compare.

Signature furniture

A sofa with a tufted back, track arms and tapered wooden legs.
A walnut or teak coffee table, often oval or surfboard-shaped.
An iconic lounge chair or a pair of shell or wingback chairs.
A long, low credenza for the TV or record player.

Warm wood everywhere

Walnut and teak tones are central. Balance them with lighter walls so the room does not feel heavy — warm white or soft greige works well.

Cozy living room after a Redecorly redesign — Cozy living room — a real Redecorly redesign of one of our test photos. Drag the handle to compare.

Try it on your own room

Snap a photo of your room, pick a style, and see it redesigned in seconds — then shop every piece in the picture.

Try it free

Color accents

Mustard, burnt orange, olive, teal and rust, used in pillows, an armchair or a rug. Pick two and repeat them.

Sculptural lighting

An arc floor lamp, a sputnik or globe chandelier, or ceramic table lamps with drum shades. Lighting is where mid-century rooms show off.

Graphic patterns and art

A geometric rug, abstract prints and a starburst mirror fit perfectly. Keep the number of patterns low so the furniture lines stay the focus.

Keep it modern

Avoid making the room a museum. Mix a couple of real mid-century-style pieces with simple modern ones, and keep surfaces clear.

Mistakes to avoid

Every piece in the same walnut tone — vary woods or add a painted piece.
Heavy, skirted furniture that hides the legs.
Too many bold colors at once.

Budget tips

Vintage markets are full of real mid-century pieces; a credenza or chairs found second-hand often cost less than new copies.

With Redecorly: Modern is the closest style — it often picks tufted sofas, tapered legs and wood tables like the example below.

FAQ

What rug goes with a mid-century living room?

A geometric or abstract-pattern rug in warm tones, or a solid wool rug in mustard, rust or cream. Make it large enough for the front legs of the sofa and chairs.

Is mid-century modern still in style?

Yes. Its clean lines and warm wood fit almost any home, and it mixes easily with modern and Scandinavian pieces.