Mid Century Modern Credenzas

Mid-century modern credenzas are credenzas from created the style period known as mid-century modern. The mid-century modern period began in the 1940s and continued until the mid-1960s. OF course, credenzas from the mid-century modern period are well-known for their versatility and durability.

The following guide will help you learn more about mid-century modern credenzas, along with learning a few essential tips for purchasing them for your home.

What are Mid-Century Modern Credenzas?

Mid-century modern credenzas (sometimes called Mid Century Modern Sideboards) are credenzas produced during what is known as the mid-century modern period. This period, which is defined as being the 1940s through the mid-1960s, is well-known for its emphasis on clean geometric lines.

Credenzas produced during this period are almost always made from solid wood. Commonly, solid walnut, teak, cherry and mahogany make up stunning MCM sideboards. Of course, these natural materials tend to have light or even clear finishes that highlight the natural grain patterns on wood.

However, you can sometimes find the usage of hybrid materials. Many designers opted to explore different, uncommon materials during this ground-breaking period. Some combined solid wood with vinyl, plastic and even metal in their designs. Additionally, glass doors and even tinted glass can feature in some MCM sideboards. Of course, these techniques gained popularity towards the end of the mid-century style period.

Common Mid-century Modern Credenza Styles

Mid-century modern credenzas are well-known for being sleek, functional and appealing.

The most common style associated with mid-century modern credenzas is a relatively short, low, rectangular credenza style. It often included hidden panels which could be used to store plates or other kitchen items. Sometimes the paneled door fronts slide horizontally on a track. Of course, some simply sit on hinges and close to a clean flat recessed profile.

Another common style you may find when searching for vintage Mid-century modern credenzas features slightly larger, bulkier drawers. Commonly, the drawers have simple flat fronts with a bold piece of hardware, or no hardware at all. Occasionally, this style combines traditional vertical dresser-style drawers with side panel shelving that could be hidden when the credenza was not being actively used.

For the most part, MCM sideboards sit on splayed peg legs. Alternatively, they sit flat on the floor with a recessed kick plate. Once in a blue moon, you may find a metal base on a vintage credenza. However, most of these credenzas are reproductions.

Tips for Purchasing Mid Century Modern Credenzas

If you are interested in purchasing a mid-century modern credenza for your home, you should consider the following essential tips.

Tip: Carefully measure your space before you purchase.
Mid-century modern credenzas are well-known for their exceptional length, which may not always be compatible with a modern kitchen, dining room or other common room space in the home. You should make sure to carefully measure the intended furniture space before you make your purchase in order to avoid any mishaps.
Tip: Consider the height of the credenza.
Most mid-century modern credenzas are fairly low to the ground, but some credenzas feature higher (and more tapered) legs which contributes to a relatively taller height for the piece. If you are someone who doesn’t want to continually bend over to retrieve plates and glassware, you will want to look for a higher mid-century modern credenza that will suit your needs.
Tip: Have the drawers tested.
One of the most essential things you must do before finalizing your purchase is to have the drawers tested. Like dressers and similar furniture from this era, mid-century modern credenzas may sometimes have issues with drawers sticking or the mechanism otherwise not working as well as it should. If you are buying from an online antique store, have the seller test each drawer; if you’re buying in person, you can test them yourself.
Tip: Check the name brand.
As MCM trends have become hot, cheaply made reproductions have flooded the market. Obviously, real vintage mid Century sideboards tend to keep their values. So, look for brands like American of Martinsville, Drexel Heritage, Baker Furniture, Lane Furniture and Willett Furniture for great options.

Remember to keep the above guide in mind when shopping for mid-century modern credenzas to add to your collection.

Decorating with MCM credenzas

Once you have scored a great Mid Century Modern Credenza, it is time to decorate. Essentially, MCM furniture can be mixed with other styles. However, you may wish to ground the room with a few more essential Mid Century touches.

If you are placing the credenza in the living room, you may wish to add a MCM sofa as well. Obviously, since both tend to be low, you will have a comfortable, laid back feel to the room.

On the other hand, if you place the credenza in a dining room, you can easily add a MCM dining table and chairs. Or, if you prefer, switch things up with a traditional fine furniture table. As long as you choose items of quality, you will achieve a sophisticated look.