Mid Century Modern Couches

Mid-century modern couches are couches created during the mid-century modern style period. This style period ran from the 1940s through the mid-1960s. Couches created during this period are highly desired today for their distinct yet timeless quality.

The following guide will help you learn more about mid-century modern couches, along with some helpful tips for purchasing them.

What are Mid-Century Modern Couches?

Mid-century modern couches are sofas made during the mid-century modern style period, which lasted from the 1940s through the mid-1960s. Of course, today, several sofas mimic MCM style features. So, you can find great replicas of Mid Century Modern sofas in more updated, fresher fabrics and materials.

Mid-century modern couches are distinguished by their bold use of color and their distinct, streamlined design which lends itself to contemporary and even traditional interiors. Indeed, Mid Century Modern Couches tend to really bring a stylish feel to a living room.

Common Mid-century Modern Couch Styles

There are several different types of mid-century modern couches that are popular today. Many of the features of authentic vintage pieces have been infused in modern couches. So, let’s look at some of these common features.

The most common type of mid-century modern couch has a long, rectangular shape. Additionally, we see distinctive blocky arm rests on each end and a mid-sized to low back. These couches have sharp angles and are designed to be heavily geometric. Of course, this makes many MCM sofas very simple.

Some of these couches featured low, padded backs and angled seats. Obviously, these sofas encourage people to sit and converse with each other. Unlike formal Victorian sofas, MCM sofas invite casual gatherings. Sometimes, Mid Century Modern sofas have larger upholstered cushioned backs for added comfort and style.

Typically, splayed peg legs make up the base of Mid Century Modern Couches. Sometimes these have brass or metal caps.

Another common type of mid-century modern couch featured a long, rectangular shape but with softer and more curved edges. These couches often came in milder colors and tones, such as shades of brown and grey.

Tips for Purchasing Mid Century Modern Couches

If you are considering adding a mid-century modern couch to your home, you should definitely consider the following tips.

Tip: Measure your space to the exact inch.
One of the most distinctive features of mid-century modern couches is the fact that they are usually elongated. These elongated couches can take up a significant amount of space. You should measure your space to the exact inch in order to make sure that your mid-century modern couch can comfortably fit your Mid Century Modern Living Room.
Tip: Consider matching bold colors with subtle shades and patterns.
Many mid-century modern couches feature distinct, vibrant shades such as teals, oranges, and greens. If you are looking at a mid-century modern couch that has a bold color, you should consider opting to contrast with some subtle shades and patterns in the form of pillows, blankets, or other couch accessories. Likewise, if your sofa has a more subtle shade, you may want to add a “pop” of color via some vibrant accessories.
Tip: Consider tying the room together with other Mid Century Modern pieces.
A Mid Century Modern Coffee table will suit your new sofa perfectly. Likewise, consider adding a Mid Century Modern Chandelier or MCM style piece of art.
Tip: Find out if it has the original upholstery.
Although many secondhand mid-century modern couches have the original upholstery, some pieces have been redone over the years in order to reflect changing tastes. For example, a homeowner may have reupholstered a couch during the 1980s, when such bold colors on couches were no longer in vogue. You should always ask whether or not the piece has retained its original upholstery, as this will impact is final value.

Remember to keep the above guide in mind when you want to add mid-century modern couches to your home.

Mid Century Modern Sofa Value

Of course, Mid Century Modern Sofas by certain makers can reach very high prices. At auction, you may find authentic sofas by certain designers reach tens of thousands of dollars. These designers can include Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames (famous for the Eames Chair)and Florence Knoll.

However, there are also certain mass produced brands that made incredible MCM sofas that still are quite valuable. For instance, Henredon MCM sofas will likely sell for between $800-$1800 on the resale market. Likewise, Drexel and Lane both made great quality sofas for the upper middle market. Also, Baker Furniture, although mostly traditional in style, dabbled in MCM furniture styles.

So, if you want a solid investment for your living room, a mid market MCM sofa by one of the above mentioned brands most likely will keep its value. If you can afford a name brand signed sofa by a groundbreaking designer, by all means purchase it. And keep it clean and in good condition. Certainly, one of these sofas likely will appreciate in value in the coming years.