Posted August 10 in Display Homes

5 simple steps to creating a modern mid-century design

Modern mid-century design has made a resurgence over the past few years – and you can understand why. Offering clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, coupled with a strong sense of nostalgia and homeliness, this versatile style possesses an enduring charm that transcends eras.

It’s also a style that Senior Interior Designer, Mitra Whittle, has executed exquisitely at Boutique Homes’ new Barcelona 32 display home in Lucas Estate, Ballarat.

‘I used the stunning simplicity of the new Mason facade as my inspiration, bringing the darker palette and timber accents to the interiors,’ says Mitra.

‘I wanted the Barcelona display home to be a clear nod to the mid-century interiors of the 50s, 60s and 70s, but with a contemporary twist that also suits young families and couples.’

Below, Mitra takes you through her five-step process to creating a modern mid-century design in your own home:

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1. Select warm timber tones

Timber cabinetry is a hallmark of the mid-century style. Just be sure to choose warmer tones such as Walnut or Teak, says Mitra.

‘For the Barcelona 32, I featured the Polytec Florentine Walnut Woodmatt heavily throughout the kitchen, but also in the master ensuite, laundry and the open shelving in the study. The consistency throughout key rooms helps to tie the home together,’ says Mitra.

‘Despite the boldness of the modern mid-century style, I love that the overall scheme is very sustainable – you could live with it for a long time.’

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2. Insert lots of black

Black is what meshes the mid-century with the modern. So don’t be afraid to use it, particularly through your tiling, tapware, appliances and lighting.

‘At the Barcelona 32 display home, I used black matt mosaic tiles in the kitchen splashback, coupled with Caesarstone Black Tempal benches,’ says Mitra.

‘This creates a beautiful contrast with the surrounding walnut cabinetry.’

Black should also feature heavily in your furniture and trimmings. Look for heavy furniture in organic shapes. Textured black bedheads, black timber coffee tables and black window frames all work well. ‘At the Barcelona, I particularly love the oval black timber dining table used in the dining area,’ says Mitra.

3. Use subdued versions of mid-century feature colours

Think mid-century, and you probably conjure up visions of fluorescent yellows, blues and greens. For a more contemporary look, opt for subdued versions of these fan favourites. Think splashes of mustard, cinnamon and green, used sparingly to highlight key areas.

‘These colours will offset the warmth of the walnut timber. Add your feature colours through abstract artworks and retro or geometric wallpapers,’ says Mitra.

‘You can also thread it through your bedding, throw cushions and even a feature couch in your lounge or theatre. But remember that this is a minimalist style, so avoid clutter or too much layering in your styling.’

4. Experiment with terrazzo tiles

This is the perfect scheme to do something a little different with your flooring. Terrazzo tiles were well known in mid-century design throughout the 1950s, and were a popular choice for flooring in the 60s and 70s. Offering a light and airy feel to your interiors, terrazzo is also wonderfully practical for young families. ‘I have selected Terrazzo tiles in the main and wet floor areas, keeping a simple palette combined with the black of white Mosaic tiles,’ says Mitra. ‘Look for softer, neutral tiles in greys and off-whites to ensure a modern aesthetic that will stand the test of time.’

5. Bring in boucle fabrics and simple lighting

Boucle fabrics are very much trending and were a key part of the original mid-century schemes. Use it through your sofas, chairs and ottomans.

Lighting also provides a solid nod to the mid-century style. Look for black curved or geometric pendants and chandeliers, maintaining a contemporary design with simple lines.

Ready to discover the boldness of modern mid-century design?

The new four-bedroom, two-bathroom Barcelona 32 display home featuring the stunning new Mason façade is now open with or without an appointment. Get driving instructions.

 

Have you found ‘The One’? 

Share your home journey and connect with the Boutique Instagram community by using #ourboutiquehome 

Get in touch with a New Homes Consultant today and discover more about the Barcelona 32.

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