If your coffee table doesn’t already host a rotation of books on mid century design, now is the time to start! We’ve rounded up TK selections that span from architecture and furniture to fashion and art.
Books on Mid Century Design
California Captured: Mid-Century Modern Architecture, Marvin Rand
This coffee table book documents the explosion of mid century architecture in California after World War II—as seen through the lens of photographer Marvin Rand.
You can read more about the book here.
Who wouldn’t want to know more about the life and work of Charles and Ray Eames? This book explores not only the beauty and form of their work, but its continuous impact.
“This volume is the single best source for anyone interested in exploring and experiencing Mid-Century Modern, the international design movement that still influences homes and lifestyles from Palm Springs to Long Island and from Japan to Scandinavia.”
Crafting Modernism: Mid-Century Art and Design
This movement is far more than homes, so we’d be remiss not to celebrate the iconic art that came of the mid century’s unique perspective.
Mod Mirage: The Midcentury Architecture of Rancho Mirage
Oftentimes, Palm Springs gets all the glory for the California dessert’s modernist landscape. This book seeks to showcase the neighboring mecca of Rancho Mirage—a mod town with just as much pedigree and preservation.
50s Fashion: Vintage Fashion and Beauty Ads
“A compendium of clothing advertisements from the decade that brought us hoop skirts, sweater sets, cuff jeans, cat’s eye glasses, and the classic James Dean jeans-and-T-shirt look.” (There’s also one on the 1960s)
They Drew As They Pleased: The Hidden Art of Disney’s Mid-Century Era: The 1950s and 1960s
We recently wrote about this book, and it’s too good not to mention again. No matter if you’re a fan of mid century art, illustration, or a Disney buff, this book is a must-read.
