Is Mid Century Modern Going Out of Style?

There are rumors that Mid Century Modern is going out of style, but are they true? Well, yes and no, and the answer depends on who you are.

egg shaped woven chair and gallery wall — Photo by Chad Mellon

Is Mid Century Modern Going Out of Style for the Trend-Followers?

Mid Century Modern came back onto the popular radar beginning in the late 90s. Trends come in waves, so it stands to reason that it’s now a question: Has MCM passed the peak of the wave? It still seems to be in the mix, but as an option among many. You might see a small tulip table alongside a wingback chair. The durability of MCM and its willingness to think outside the box gives it contemporary appeal.

mid century modern bedroom — Photo by Bret Gum.

What about for the Committed MCM Enthusiast?

For those who appreciate MCM as a design and philosophy, it’s not about how popular the style is. There’s some convenience in ease of access when something’s “in,” but let’s be honest–there’s also an appeal to not being like the mainstream trends. So it’s not going to dampen core enthusiast’s appreciation of the style and might even solidify it more, if and when the design passes from its resurgence in popularity.

What Design Trends Are “In” and Which Are MCM Compatible?

Danielle Nagel Krisel home orange and yellow dining room — Photography courtesy of Dani Nagel.

According to this article, maximalism is in for 2022 interior design trends. That sounds antithetical to MCM’s more minimalist leanings, but not necessarily. Take Dani Nagel’s work as an example. She uses bold patterns in a maximalist way that still draws on the MCM vernacular.

Traditional decorative touches also seem to be out of step with the pared down clean lines of MCM, but as folks become more mindful of sustainability in their choices, vintage furniture, which includes MCM, is particularly appealing.

Being at home so much the last two years has shaped what people want from their homes. The need for more separation between spaces does mean the MCM open floor plan has lost some appeal, but at the same time, the need for indoor-outdoor connection is something people are keenly aware of.