The Opposite of Mid-Century Modern

Mid-Century Modern was a design aesthetic that was related to modernism, and utilized modern construction techniques such as mass-production which gave a wider audience access to well designed furniture and other household items. It prioritized function over form, and it was typically characterized by simple, clean lines with little to no embellishment. It made use of bright accent colors that were often used against a backdrop of neutral tones bringing a sense of modernity to the designs. All of this was seen as a rebellion against ornate traditions from previous decades such as Art Deco where designs were often covered in elaborate decoration. 

Art Deco, a design style that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, captured the spirit of a glamorous and optimistic era.  Characterized by its geometric shapes, rich materials, and stylized ornamentation. Art Deco was seen everywhere from architecture and interior design to fashion and jewelry.  It drew inspiration from various sources, including ancient civilizations, nature, and the machine age, resulting in a unique blend of elegance and modernity.  Though its popularity waned after World War II, Art Deco’s timeless appeal continues to inspire designers and captivate enthusiasts today. Timeless examples of the style include the Chrysler Building and Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

If I were to design a lamp in the Art Deco style, I would add much more ornamentation to the lamp. I could possibly do this by carving the wood, and featuring stylized floral motifs or geometric patterns. The use of vibrant colors, such as emerald green or sapphire blue, would further enhance its Art Deco appeal, while geometric shapes, like chevrons or stepped forms, could be incorporated into the shade. The goal would be to create a lamp that is not only functional but also a work of art, reflecting the glamour and sophistication of the Art Deco era.*

*Portions of this post were written with the help of Google Gemini.

“Art Deco.” In Wikipedia, February 10, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Art_Deco&oldid=1274984205.

“Mid-Century Modern Interior Design Style.” Accessed February 12, 2025. https://www.kilim.com/kilim-wiki/mid-century-modern-interior-design-style.

“1930s Art Deco Chandeliers. PAIR | The Old Above | Restored Vintage Lighting.” Accessed February 12, 2025. https://theoldabove.com/product/1930s-art-deco-chandeliers-pair/.

“Radio City Music Hall, New York.” Accessed February 12, 2025. https://www.historictheatrephotos.com/Theatre/Radio-City-New-York.aspx.