Search This Blog

22 June 2011

History Brush Up on Mid-Century Modern Design

Last week, Tara and I went to Moderne Antiques to meet with the owner, John, to discuss our design future with him over a glass of wine, Mediterranean appetizers and ice-cream.  John is an extremely outgoing and friendly character chock-full of Mid-Century Modern facts.  I found myself lost a couple of times during our conversations due to my lack of knowledge on the subject.  Consequently, I have developed a curiosity for the history and design of Mid-Century Modern and have spent a good chunk of my day sifting through various articles and photos.


John, owner of http://antiquesmoderne.com/, playing with Tara's pup. 

Brief history: Mid-Century Modern design, noted for its well-designed, highly-functional and mass-produced furniture, surfaced after World-War II and continued into the mid-60s (and is currently making a comeback).  Designers of this era made it a point to create products that were affordable to the average family while focusing on using minimal materials and keeping appropriate strength/structure.  They used materials such as steel, molded plywood and acrylics/plastics to create their visually light masterpieces.



I won’t bore you with too many historical facts but here are some photos that caught my attention:



Simply known as "The Chair", designed by Hans Wegner (Danish), was used by Nixon and Kennedy in a 1960 presidential debate. 




Why use four legs? Eero Saarinen (Finnish-American) came up with this one piece unit known as the “Tulip” chair. It was later popularized by its appearance on Star Trek in the mid 60's.
 








Charles and Ray Eames (American), two of the most notorious designers of the century, pioneered technologies such as the fiberglass, plastic resin chairs and the wire mesh chairs that we still see all over the place today.






The Eames fiberglass rocking chairs were created in the 1950's.  These are still being produced using the original presses from the 50's to mold the chairs in order to maintain their original look.















The wire mesh chair, introduced by Eames in 1951, still remains as popular today as it was 60 years ago. 

















To be continued...

-Amy B.

71 comments:

  1. I'll take a white Eames rocker and a wire mesh one, please!

    ReplyDelete
  2. I simply couldn't go away your site before suggesting that I actually loved the standard info an individual provide on your visitors? Is going to be again often in order to check up on new posts

    Feel free to visit my blog sign company

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hello, Neat post. There's an issue with your web site in web explorer, may test this? IE still is the market chief and a huge portion of other folks will pass over your great writing because of this problem.

    Feel free to visit my web site :: Cheap NFL Jerseys

    ReplyDelete
  4. I was recommended this blog by my cousin. I am not sure whether
    this post is written by him as no one else know such detailed about my trouble.
    You are amazing! Thanks!

    Here is my web page wheelhousebikes.com

    ReplyDelete
  5. Pretty element of content. I just stumbled upon
    your website and in accession capital to say that I acquire in fact
    loved account your weblog posts. Any way I'll be subscribing to your feeds or even I fulfillment you access consistently fast.

    Here is my website :: Nike Air Max

    ReplyDelete
  6. Oh my goodness! Impressive article dude! Thank you,
    However I am encountering troubles with your RSS.
    I don't understand the reason why I cannot join it. Is there anybody else getting the same RSS problems? Anybody who knows the answer will you kindly respond? Thanks!!

    my page - http://www.converseshopfr.com/

    ReplyDelete
  7. Aw, this was an incredibly good post. Spending some time and actual effort to generate a superb article… but what can I say… I procrastinate a whole lot
    and never manage to get anything done.

    Look at my site :: Michael Kors

    ReplyDelete
  8. Hi, i think that i saw you visited my web site thus i came to “return the favor”.
    I am attempting to find things to improve my website!
    I suppose its ok to use a few of your ideas!!

    Look into my web site; Louis Vuitton Handbags

    ReplyDelete
  9. Hi to every single one, it's actually a good for me to go to see this web site, it includes valuable Information.

    My blog; Abercrombie

    ReplyDelete
  10. Remarkable issues here. I'm very happy to see your post. Thanks a lot and I am having a look forward to contact you. Will you please drop me a mail?

    My page Kris Letang Authentic Jersey

    ReplyDelete
  11. Useful info. Lucky me I discovered your web site accidentally, and I am shocked why this twist of fate did not happened
    earlier! I bookmarked it.

    Here is my blog - Authentic Mario Lemieux Jersey

    ReplyDelete
  12. Hey! I know this is somewhat off topic but I was wondering if you knew where
    I could find a captcha plugin for my comment form? I'm using the same blog platform as yours and I'm having problems finding
    one? Thanks a lot!

    Also visit my blog; Cheap NFL Jerseys

    ReplyDelete
  13. Nice blog right here! Additionally your web site lots
    up very fast! What web host are you using? Can I
    get your associate hyperlink in your host? I desire my website loaded up as fast as yours lol

    Feel free to visit my web page NFL Jerseys Cheap

    ReplyDelete
  14. Appreciate this post. Will try it out.

    my web site ... Abercrombie Fitch Belgique

    ReplyDelete
  15. Your mode of explaining all in this article is genuinely nice, every one be capable
    of easily understand it, Thanks a lot.

    Here is my web page :: NFL Jerseys Wholesale

    ReplyDelete
  16. Hey there! This is my first comment here so I just wanted to give a quick shout out and say
    I really enjoy reading your posts. Can you suggest any other blogs/websites/forums
    that go over the same topics? Thanks a ton!

    Here is my website http://cheapnfljerseys.wsmisports.com

    ReplyDelete
  17. For most up-to-date news you have to pay a
    visit world-wide-web and on the web I found this web site as a finest website for latest updates.


    Check out my web site wheelhousebikes.com

    ReplyDelete
  18. Wonderful post! We are linking to this particularly great post on our site.
    Keep up the good writing.

    Also visit my blog: Cheap Louis Vuitton Bags

    ReplyDelete
  19. Paragraph writing is also a excitement, if
    you be familiar with then you can write or else it
    is difficult to write.

    Here is my webpage - helpful resources

    ReplyDelete
  20. I must thank you for the efforts you've put in penning this blog. I'm hoping to check out the
    same high-grade blog posts from you later on as well.
    In fact, your creative writing abilities has motivated me to
    get my very own blog now ;)

    Here is my homepage :: Abercrombie Paris

    ReplyDelete
  21. This information is priceless. How can I find out more?


    Feel free to visit my webpage: Michael Kors Canada

    ReplyDelete
  22. I loved as much as you'll receive carried out right here. The sketch is attractive, your authored material stylish. nonetheless, you command get bought an edginess over that you wish be delivering the following. unwell unquestionably come more formerly again as exactly the same nearly a lot often inside case you shield this hike.

    Also visit my web site ... http://wealthwayonline.com/sidneycrosbyjersey.html

    ReplyDelete
  23. What a material of un-ambiguity and preserveness of precious
    experience about unpredicted feelings.

    My blog Gucci Ufficiale

    ReplyDelete
  24. First off I want to say terrific blog! I had a quick question which I'd like to ask if you don't mind.
    I was interested to know how you center yourself and clear your head before writing.
    I have had a tough time clearing my mind in getting my ideas out there.
    I truly do take pleasure in writing however it just seems like the
    first 10 to 15 minutes tend to be lost simply just trying to figure out how to begin.
    Any suggestions or hints? Thanks!

    Feel free to surf to my page Louis Vuitton Outlet

    ReplyDelete
  25. Terrific post but I was wondering if you could write a litte more on this topic?
    I'd be very thankful if you could elaborate a little bit more. Thank you!

    my web blog :: Cheap NFL Jerseys

    ReplyDelete
  26. Yes! Finally someone writes about chauffeur.

    Here is my site: Michael Kors Outlet

    ReplyDelete
  27. I am extremely impressed together with your writing skills as neatly
    as with the format for your weblog. Is that this a paid subject matter or did you customize it yourself?
    Either way keep up the excellent quality writing, it's rare to look a great weblog like this one these days..

    Stop by my blog; http://www.atatraining.co.Za/

    ReplyDelete
  28. Hi Dear, are you really visiting this web page regularly, if so then you will absolutely get pleasant experience.


    Feel free to surf to my web blog - click the site

    ReplyDelete
  29. Definitely believe that which you stated. Your favorite reason appeared to be on the net the easiest thing to be aware of.
    I say to you, I certainly get irked while people think about
    worries that they just do not know about. You managed to hit the nail upon the top and also defined out the whole thing without having side-effects , people can take
    a signal. Will probably be back to get more. Thanks

    My weblog; More information

    ReplyDelete
  30. Sweet blog! I found it while surfing around
    on Yahoo News. Do you have any suggestions on how to get listed in
    Yahoo News? I've been trying for a while but I never seem to get there! Thank you

    Also visit my web blog: click the site

    ReplyDelete
  31. Hello there, I discovered your site by the use of Google at the same time as searching for a related
    topic, your website got here up, it appears great.

    I have bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.
    Hi there, simply was alert to your blog via Google, and located that it's really informative. I'm gonna be careful for brussels.
    I'll be grateful should you proceed this in future. Many other people will be benefited from your writing. Cheers!

    Feel free to visit my web page - www.debtcloud.codewell.co.za

    ReplyDelete
  32. This info is priceless. How can I find out more?

    Take a look at my web blog - Chaussure De Foot

    ReplyDelete
  33. Hi to all, how is all, I think every one is getting more from this site,
    and your views are pleasant designed for new users.

    my page http://www.cav-chartered-accountants.wozaonline.co.za

    ReplyDelete
  34. Hello, just wanted to tell you, I enjoyed this blog post.
    It was funny. Keep on posting!

    Look at my web site: www.inspiredacc.com

    ReplyDelete
  35. Good day very nice blog!! Man .. Beautiful .. Amazing .. I
    will bookmark your web site and take the feeds also?

    I am happy to search out so many useful information
    right here in the post, we want work out more techniques in this regard, thanks
    for sharing. . . . . .

    my blog - Visit here

    ReplyDelete
  36. Ahaa, its pleasant dialogue regarding this paragraph here at this website,
    I have read all that, so at this time me also commenting at this place.



    Here is my webpage - click the site

    ReplyDelete
  37. This is very interesting, You are a very skilled blogger.
    I've joined your feed and look forward to seeking more of your excellent post. Also, I've shared your website in my social networks!


    Here is my web blog ... Abercrombie and Fitch

    ReplyDelete
  38. Do you mind if I quote a couple of your posts as long as I provide credit
    and sources back to your blog? My blog site is in the exact same area
    of interest as yours and my users would definitely benefit from some of the
    information you provide here. Please let me know if this okay with you.
    Appreciate it!

    Also visit my blog check this out

    ReplyDelete
  39. Hello, Neat post. There is a problem together with your web site in web
    explorer, might check this? IE nonetheless is the market chief and a good component of folks will
    miss your excellent writing due to this
    problem.

    my web blog :: Air Max

    ReplyDelete
  40. I visited many websites however the audio quality
    for audio songs current at this web page is in fact fabulous.


    Also visit my webpage: Air Jordan

    ReplyDelete
  41. Aw, this was an extremely good post. Finding the time and actual
    effort to produce a really good article… but what can I say… I procrastinate
    a whole lot and never manage to get nearly anything
    done.

    my weblog: Oakley Frogskins

    ReplyDelete
  42. Everything posted made a lot of sense. However, what about this?
    what if you were to write a killer title? I ain't suggesting your information isn't good, but what
    if you added a post title to maybe get a person's attention? I mean "History Brush Up on Mid-Century Modern Design" is a little boring. You should look at Yahoo's
    home page and watch how they create news headlines to
    grab people to click. You might add a video or a picture or two
    to grab readers excited about what you've got to say. In my opinion, it could make your posts a little livelier.

    Here is my blog ... Sac Louis Vuitton

    ReplyDelete
  43. If some one desires to be updated with most
    recent technologies after that he must be go to see this web site and be up to
    date all the time.

    My blog post; check out

    ReplyDelete
  44. My brother recommended I might like this website.
    He was totally right. This put up actually made my day.
    You cann't imagine simply how a lot time I had spent for this information! Thank you!

    my web site; Wholesale Jerseys Cheap

    ReplyDelete
  45. hello!,I really like your writing very much! percentage we keep up a correspondence extra about your post on AOL?
    I require an expert on this area to solve my problem.
    May be that is you! Taking a look ahead to see you.

    Also visit my web site: Louis Vuitton Handbags Outlet

    ReplyDelete
  46. Hello to all, how is all, I think every one is getting more from this web site, and your views are fastidious designed for new users.



    Here is my site - Louis Vuitton Purses

    ReplyDelete
  47. I truly love your site.. Pleasant colors & theme. Did you build
    this site yourself? Please reply back as I'm hoping to create my very own blog and would like to know where you got this from or what the theme is called. Appreciate it!

    Also visit my web site :: Oakley Sunglasses

    ReplyDelete
  48. Oh my goodness! Incredible article dude! Thanks, However I
    am having issues with your RSS. I don't understand the reason why I cannot subscribe to it. Is there anybody getting similar RSS issues? Anyone who knows the answer can you kindly respond? Thanx!!

    Here is my web page - www.acnetreatmentreview.co

    ReplyDelete
  49. I am sure this piece of writing has touched all the internet
    users, its really really nice article on building
    up new web site.

    Also visit my web page ... Mulberry UK

    ReplyDelete
  50. Good way of describing, and nice paragraph to take information on the
    topic of my presentation topic, which i am going to convey in institution of
    higher education.

    Here is my site: Tory Burch Flats

    ReplyDelete
  51. Way cool! Some very valid points! I appreciate you penning this article and the
    rest of the website is also really good.

    Stop by my website Nike Free Run

    ReplyDelete
  52. I know this site provides quality depending articles and additional information, is there any other website which presents these kinds of information in quality?



    Also visit my web site ... Christian Louboutin

    ReplyDelete
  53. This is a topic that's near to my heart... Cheers! Exactly where are your contact details though?

    My blog ... nike pas Cher

    ReplyDelete
  54. Great post. I was checking constantly this weblog and
    I am inspired! Extremely helpful information specifically the final part :) I care for such
    info much. I used to be seeking this particular info for a very
    lengthy time. Thanks and best of luck.

    Here is my blog post - Discover More

    ReplyDelete
  55. This site certainly has all the info I needed about this subject
    and didn't know who to ask.

    Also visit my website Read More

    ReplyDelete
  56. Hi it's me, I am also visiting this website daily, this web site is really nice and the viewers are genuinely sharing fastidious thoughts.

    Here is my web page; Get the Facts

    ReplyDelete
  57. Good post. I learn something totally new and challenging on sites I stumbleupon
    every day. It will always be interesting to read through
    content from other authors and practice a little something from other
    web sites.

    Visit my weblog :: Kevin Durant 5 Shoes []

    ReplyDelete
  58. Awesome issues here. I am very satisfied to see your post.
    Thank you so much and I am having a look forward to contact you.
    Will you kindly drop me a e-mail?

    Have a look at my page - Boutique Air Jordan

    ReplyDelete
  59. Hi, this weekend is fastidious in support of me,
    as this moment i am reading this enormous informative piece of writing here at my
    house.

    my web page; Chaussures De Foot ()

    ReplyDelete
  60. hello there and thank you for your information
    – I've definitely picked up something new from right here. I did however expertise a few technical points using this web site, as I experienced to reload the site many times previous to I could get it to load properly. I had been wondering if your web hosting is OK? Not that I'm complaining, but sluggish loading instances times will sometimes affect your placement in google and could damage
    your high quality score if ads and marketing with Adwords.
    Anyway I am adding this RSS to my email and can look out for much more
    of your respective exciting content. Ensure that you update this
    again soon.

    Feel free to visit my webpage ... Chaussures De Foot Pas Cher

    ReplyDelete
  61. Wow that was unusual. I just wrote an incredibly long comment but after I clicked submit my comment didn't appear. Grrrr... well I'm not writing
    all that over again. Anyways, just wanted to say
    fantastic blog!

    My site; More hints [friendmash.com.nu]

    ReplyDelete
  62. Hi just wanted to give you a quick heads up and let you know a few of the pictures aren't loading properly. I'm
    not sure why but I think its a linking issue.
    I've tried it in two different web browsers and both show the same results.

    my blog; Louis Vuitton Handbags Outlet *ngosummit.Com*

    ReplyDelete
  63. My partner and I absolutely love your blog and find most of your
    post's to be exactly I'm looking for. Does one offer guest writers to write content for yourself?
    I wouldn't mind publishing a post or elaborating on a number of the subjects you write about here. Again, awesome site!

    Feel free to surf to my blog: Sac Louis Vuitton

    ReplyDelete
  64. Oh my goodness! Impressive article dude!

    Thank you, However I am going through troubles with your RSS.
    I don't know the reason why I can't subscribe to it. Is there anyone else having similar RSS problems?
    Anybody who knows the solution will you kindly respond?
    Thanx!!

    my web page; Cheap Air Max

    ReplyDelete
  65. Hello, Neat post. There is an issue together with your site in internet explorer,
    would test this? IE still is the marketplace leader and a big part of
    other people will miss your fantastic writing due to this problem.


    My page :: Air Max

    ReplyDelete
  66. I was able to find good advice from your articles.


    Visit my web site: Mulberry Outlet (http://www.whatsot.com/)

    ReplyDelete
  67. Hello there! This is my first visit to your blog! We are a collection of volunteers and starting a new project in
    a community in the same niche. Your blog provided us
    beneficial information to work on. You have done a
    extraordinary job!

    My web page: Learn More

    ReplyDelete
  68. It is a very informative and useful post thanks it is good material to read this post increases my knowledge. Extra wide kitchen curtains

    ReplyDelete