Mid century design ideas
If you’re searching for a sofa, chances are you’ve heard of mid century. Characterised by splayed legs, clean lines, and formal backs, this much-loved style is always in fashion and lends itself effortlessly to endless interior trends. Make the most of your mid century moment and all things 1950s, 1960s and beyond with DFS.
What is mid century style?
Mid century style was popularised in the - yes, you guessed it - middle of the 20th century, when angular shapes, exposed frames, and minimalist buttoning ruled the interior world. These furniture features have stood the test of time, outlasting their 50s and 60s roots to grace our living rooms with sophisticated silhouettes well into the 21st century.
Why choose a mid century sofa?
Mid century style isn’t going anywhere - if you’re looking for a centrepiece that’ll stand up to whatever trend you throw its way, you can’t go wrong with a mid century sofa.
Better still, its status as a sofa staple means this style often gets the star treatment when it comes to customisation - be it fabric variety, colour range, or foot choice. So whether you’re searching for a luxurious lemon statement or a cosy cord couch, mid century probably has you covered.
How to incorporate retro décor in your home
Whether you’re refining your seventies style or adding fifties fashion to your front room, mid century doesn’t stop with your sofa. Check out some of our mid century design ideas for more retro interior inspiration.
Retro Standard
Say hello to ‘newstalgia’. The Retro Standard trend takes all your favourite mid-century vintage values and gives them an eclectic modern twist for a fun and funky décor style.
Vintage Home Décor Styles
The future is the past - and these interior styles prove it. From the elegant 50s to the minimalist 90s and everything in between, learn how to make nostalgia your new thing.
Fleetwood
Inspired by the rich colours and opulent details of 70s style, the Fleetwood trend takes mid century modern and saturates it with glamorous flair. Think dark wood, luxury gold, and statement silhouettes that will elevate your space.
Not your style? Try these instead!
Types of mid century sofa
With so much variety on offer, there’s a mid century sofa for everyone - whether you’re a frantic family of five, dreaming of designer, or cuddling up as a couple.
Family mid century sofas
A houseful is a handful at the best of times - so having a good sofa to sink into together is essential. If you need to maximise the bums-on-seats potential of your mid century sofa, we love the Farnham Grand Open End Corner Sofa. Classic button back detailing brings the style, while reversible cushions and generously proportioned seats make this the perfect sofa for a family with lots of little - or not so little! - ones.
Recliner mid century sofas
Looking to take your relaxation even further? Studio is a power reclining sofa that adds 21st century tech to 20th century style with integrated USB ports. It’s got all the hallmarks of a classic mid century modern sofa - splayed legs, button-back cushions, formal back - with recliner seats for an even more relaxing rest.
Small mid century sofas
Mid century doesn’t have to mean massive; if you’re searching for a mini mid century sofa to add some snug style to your space, take a look at the Benji Cuddler Sofa. Offering just enough room for two, Benji’s super-soft fabric and deep, plush cushioning make it the perfect place to - as the name suggests - cuddle up.
Designer mid century sofas
Any mid century sofa can be a statement centrepiece for your space - but a designer mid century sofa takes your living room to the next level. The luxurious Langton sofa by Joules, exclusive to DFS, adds heritage country charm to a 1950s silhouette, upholstered in plush velvet and boasting a quintessentially British colour palette to exude luxury from every angle.
Mid century furniture
If you’re looking to really embrace the mid century magic, a sofa is just the beginning. With our living room, bedroom, and dining room ranges, there’s plenty of mid century inspiration to be found in all corners of your home.
Filip Sideboard
The Filip occasional furniture range takes inspiration from sleek and stylish Scandinavian style to bring the warmth of natural wood to your home.
Hoxton Footstool
Timelessly elegant, the Hoxton range pairs super-soft and durable chenille with instantly recognisable mid century modern features.
Cosma Oak Dining Set
Eye-catching ribbed wood sets Cade Oak dining furniture apart, offering a contemporary take on classic mid century style.
Mid century FAQs
What is mid century modern?
Mid century modern is used interchangeably with mid century and usually refers to the same thing - sleek, simple, splayed-leg style. If we’re getting technical, mid century actually refers to the time period itself - the 1950s - whereas mid century modern refers to the much-loved interior style and furniture that came with it. Mid century modern emphasises clean lines, functional furniture, and big, open plan spaces.
Can you mix Art Deco and mid century?
Short answer - yes! Art Deco and mid century styles share a lot of similarities and, when done right, can be a showstopping combination. Stick with clean lines, warm woods, and ergonomic shapes to channel mid century magic, then add smooth velvet and bold colours for an Art Deco-inspired touch.
How do you decorate mid century modern?
Mid century proves simple doesn’t have to be soulless, and décor is a huge part of that. Try to follow the same criteria you used for your mid century sofa to choose your decorations - clean lines, geometric shapes, and natural materials will be your best friend. You might also want to choose some statement accents like a chic vintage lamp, bold and bright artwork, or a patterned rug.
Is 70s mid century?
The mid century style movement we know and love spanned from the 1940s to the mid-1970s, so some elements of 70s style appear in mid century interiors. In the later 70s, luxury glam took centre stage, with bold and bright colours taking an expressive turn away from the more muted mid century palette. Interior trends like the Fleetwood style offer the best of both worlds.
How do you clean mid century furniture?
Your furniture cleaning routine is highly dependent on the fabric of material your furniture is made of - and that’s just the same for mid century style. It’s important that you’re clear on what your décor is made of before diving in with cleaning products to keep your furniture looking its best. For advice on all things cleaning and care, check out our helpful hub.
