Mid Century Modern Chairs

Guy Munoz
10 min readJun 20, 2024

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Welcome to our roundup of the best Mid Century Modern Chairs! This article showcases a collection of timeless and stylish chairs that captures the essence of the Mid Century Modern era. We’ve scoured through the market to bring you the most sought-after pieces that embody the sleek design, comfort, and functionality that this period is known for. So, sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey through time with these amazing chairs.

The Top 6 Best Mid Century Modern Chairs

  1. Retro Mid-Century Wood Leather Chair Set of 2 in Saddle Leather & Espresso Finish — Experience ultimate comfort and style with the contract-grade Mid-Century Show Leather Wood Chair, available in both genuine top-grain leather and vegan leather, and engineered for durability in residential and commercial settings.
  2. Zola Upholstered Walnut Midcentury Armchair with Mustard Polyester Fabric — Experience the perfect blend of style, comfort, and ease with the Zola Upholstered Accent Armchair Wade Logan, a must-have mid-century modern addition to your home.
  3. Bestier Upholstered High Back Reading Armchair in Beige — Relax and rejuvenate in the Bestier Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair, featuring a high back, upholstered fabric, reading armchair design, and a cozy waist cushion.
  4. Vintage-Inspired Mid Century Modern Upholstered Armchair — Experience ultimate comfort and style with our Mid Century Modern Upholstered Accent Chair, featuring a linen beige design, solid wood armrests, and high-density foam cushioning.
  5. Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair for Living Room or Bedroom — Bring a touch of mid-century charm to your living space with the WACASA Beige Boho Accent Chair, an easy-to-assemble and versatile addition to any room.
  6. Modern Living Room Sofa with Molded Plywood Design and Mid Century Chaise — Indulge in the allure of timeless comfort and contemporary elegance with the Cottinch Eames Lounge Chair, a harmonious fusion of vintage charm and visionary design meant to elevate your living space.

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Reviews

Retro Mid-Century Wood Leather Chair Set of 2 in Saddle Leather & Espresso Finish

I recently tried the Midcentury Show Wood Leather Chair, and I must say, I was impressed. The leather, in particular, caught my eye.

Its natural variation in color and texture made each chair unique, and it felt comfortable to the touch. The solid ash wood arms and legs were sturdy, and the engineered wood seat made it durable. However, I did notice a slight variation in cushion firmness, which some people might prefer.

Overall, the chair has a sleek and stylish design that adds a touch of elegance to any room, and it’s great to know that it’s made from responsibly sourced wood.

Zola Upholstered Walnut Midcentury Armchair with Mustard Polyester Fabric

This Zola accent armchair from Wade Logan is a stylish addition to any living space. The mid-century modern design reminds us of the retro aesthetic, while the walnut leg color adds a sleek touch.

The upholstery of my choice, which is a rich mustard polyester fabric, wraps the seat and cushion for a crisp look. The foam filling provides great support, making it perfect for reading or movie nights. However, I must admit that the cushions are very firm, not entirely soft for cozy relaxation.

Despite this, the assembly process was easy, and I managed to put it together by myself with just a drill. The ease of cleaning and the 30-day warranty add to its positive aspects.

Overall, this accent armchair is a fantastic piece that’s both sophisticated and comfortable, but not ideal if you’re expecting a cushy lounger.

Bestier Upholstered High Back Reading Armchair in Beige

Relax and unwind in this Bestier Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair, designed with a high back for ultimate comfort. The upholstered fabric provides a soft touch while the waist cushion adds an extra level of coziness. This versatile armchair can be used for reading, napping, or simply lounging.

With its simple yet elegant design, this chair will complement any home decoration style, bringing peace and tranquility into your space.

Vintage-Inspired Mid Century Modern Upholstered Armchair

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I recently came across this Mid Century Modern Upholstered Accent Chair in a beige linen finish and have been enjoying its functional and stylish presence in my living room. With its sturdy solid wood legs and armrests, the chair feels well-made and stable while offering a comfortable cushion filled with high-density foam. The versatility of the chair allows it to blend seamlessly with a variety of home decor styles and rooms.

During my use, the easy installation process stood out as a positive feature, with the well-written instructions making assembly a breeze. However, one of the slight drawbacks I faced was the tightness of the seat cushion during initial setup, which required some coaxing to fully inflate. Additionally, the cork covers for the screws appeared to be made of a cheaper plastic, which may not have a long-lasting appearance.

Overall, I found the chair to be both comfortable and attractive, with its timeless mid-century modern design adding charm to any living space. With a few minor adjustments, this chair could become an even greater asset in any home decor enthusiast’s collection.

Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair for Living Room or Bedroom

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The WACASA Accent Chair adds a touch of class to your living room or bedroom with its stylish Mid-Century Modern design. The beige fabric upholstery not only complements your existing decor but also provides a cozy seating experience.

The set of 2 even makes it a practical and versatile addition to your home. Assembly is a breeze, taking only 5–10 minutes to complete.

The solid wood frame and cushion ensure durability and comfort, and the glide feature allows the chair to move smoothly across hard floor surfaces.

Modern Living Room Sofa with Molded Plywood Design and Mid Century Chaise

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The Cottinch Eames Lounge Chair is a mid-century lounge chair and ottoman set that brings a timeless design to your living, bedroom, or reading space. This modern sofa features a sleek form made from molded plywood, providing both a receptive look and a sense of old-fashioned comfort.

The chair’s tall design makes it an ideal choice for those looking for added comfort and support after a long day. The plywood lounge chair and ottoman come together with a five-star die-cast steel base, ensuring a sturdy and durable foundation for your relaxation.

The contemporary design of this chair makes it easy to blend into any living space, offering a touch of modernity and a timeless appeal. Its seating capacity is perfect for one person, making it a cozy addition to your home.

Users have generally rated the chair positively, with many praising its ease of assembly and overall comfort. However, there have been some issues with missing hardware and instructions, which can make the assembly process a bit more challenging than expected. Additionally, there have been complaints about the chair’s shipping process and the quality, with some receiving products with manufacturing flaws or scratches.

Despite these concerns, the majority of reviewers have been satisfied with their purchase, citing the chair’s top-grain leather upholstery, rich wood finish, and plush seating as standout features. The chair has been well-received as a sleek and comfortable addition to any living space, and its mid-century modern design adds a touch of sophistication to your home decor.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to furniture, mid-century modern chairs have a special place. Known for their timeless design, these chairs are a popular choice for many homeowners and designers, and they’re here to stay. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll discuss some essential features, considerations, and general advice to help you navigate the world of mid-century modern chairs and make the right decision for your home.

Important Features

To get the most out of your mid-century modern chair, consider these aspects when making your selection:

  1. Style — A key factor when choosing a modern mid-century chair is its style. Remember that mid-century modern chairs have an iconic look, featuring sleek lines, clean silhouettes, and organic shapes. As you shop, be sure to select a chair that matches the overall style of your home and complements other mid-century modern pieces.

Materials and Construction

  1. Materials and construction — Quality is essential when buying any piece of furniture. Check the construction of the chair, including its frame and any support features. Solid wood, steel, and aluminum are popular materials for mid-century modern chairs, providing both durability and a touch of elegance. Look for chairs with well-crafted joints and sturdy construction that can withstand everyday use.

Fabric and Finish

  1. Fabric and finish — The fabric or upholstery of your mid-century chair can help you achieve the desired look and feel. Common materials include leather, synthetic leathers, and various types of fabric, such as wool, linen, and cotton. Consider factors like durability, ease of maintenance, and comfort when selecting a material. Additionally, the finish of the chair, whether it’s painted, stained, or even left natural, can add depth and character.

Comfort and Ergonomics

  1. Comfort and ergonomics — While some mid-century modern chairs are designed primarily for their style, it’s essential to choose one that provides comfort and ergonomics. Pay attention to things such as cushioning, seat height, and the overall support offered by the chair. Chairs with adequate lumbar support, adjustable height, and ergonomic seat contours can go a long way in making your mid-century chair a comfortable and enjoyable choice.

FAQ

How can I identify a true mid century modern chair?

A true mid century modern chair typically showcases clean lines, minimal or no ornamentation, and a functional design. The materials used, such as wood or metal, are usually organic or geometric in shape. Look for classic examples like the Eames Lounge Chair or the Wassily Chair, which are hallmarks of the mid century modern design movement.

Additionally, consider the time period it was designed in. Mid century modern design is typically associated with the years between 1933 and 1965. If a piece matches these characteristics, you’re likely looking at a true mid-century modern chair! You may also want to consult with a design professional or research the piece online if you’re unsure.

Are mid century modern chairs only available in plastic?

No, not all mid century modern chairs are made of plastic. While some iconic designs such as the Eames Molded Plastic Chair are made from plastic, many others are constructed from wood, metal, or a combination of materials. Some of the most well-known chairs like the Saarinen Tulip Chair, the Bertoia Wire Chair, and the Noguchi Coffee Table are made of metal and wood. Always check the chair’s material when purchasing to ensure it aligns with your preferences.

Moreover, the use of plastic for mid century modern chairs reflects the era’s focus on innovation and functionality. Plastic was a promising material back then, as it allowed designers to create lightweight and durable furniture pieces. Today, you can find various options, including high-quality reproductions and original vintage pieces in different materials.

What are the dimensions of a typical mid century modern chair?

Dimensions of mid-century modern chairs can vary depending on the design and purpose of the chair. However, a generalized guideline would be that a typical mid-century modern chair is approximately 30 inches wide, 28 inches deep, and 31–34 inches tall, including the armrests. These dimensions are subject to change when considering factors like armrests, chair back height, and seat depth.

When you’re looking at purchasing a mid-century modern chair, consider these dimensions in relation to the room and space in which you intend to place it, making sure that it fits comfortably and doesn’t overwhelm the area. Also, always double-check the dimensions of the specific chair you’re interested in to ensure it aligns with your needs.

What are some popular materials for mid century modern chairs?

Popular materials for mid century modern chairs include wood, metal, and plastic. Wood, like maple or walnut, gives the pieces a warm, natural feel and a traditional look. Metal, like chrome, aluminum, or stainless steel, adds a sleek, modern and industrial touch to the design. Plastic, like molded plastic or fiberglass, creates lightweight, durable, and stylish seating options.

The selection of materials often depended on the designer’s preferences and the manufacturing techniques available at the time. For example, when the Eames Lounge Chair was designed, molded plastic was an innovative and cost-effective choice. On the other hand, the Saarinen Tulip Chair, with its metal frame and laminated wood seat, reflects the design’s focus on minimalism and function.

How can I clean and maintain a mid century modern chair?

Cleaning and maintaining your mid century modern chair can help ensure its longevity and preserve its aesthetic appeal. First, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintaining the chair’s material. Generally, a soft cloth and warm water solution can be used to clean metal, wood, and plastic surfaces. Use gentle cleaning products like mild soap or furniture cleaner for more delicate materials like fabric cushions, upholstery, or natural wood.

To prevent damage, avoid exposing the chair to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. This can cause fading, discoloration, or weaken the materials. Additionally, place the chair on a soft, protective surface to prevent scratches or marks on the floor. Regularly inspect the chair for any signs of damage or wear and have any necessary repairs or refinishing done promptly.

Where can I purchase a mid century modern chair?

A mid-century modern chair can be purchased at various places, including furniture stores, online retailers, and even secondhand markets. Depending on your budget, you can opt for a vintage or original piece from the era, which can serve as a collector’s item or a statement piece in your home. Other options include purchasing a reproduction or a new design inspired by the mid-century modern style.

When shopping for a mid-century modern chair, consider factors such as the chair’s originality, material, condition, and the price point. Doing some research on the design movement, the specific chair’s history, and its material can help you make an informed decision. You can also visit local antique or vintage furniture dealers or attend estate sales or auctions for unique pieces.

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