Mid Century Modern Shelving: A Timeless Statement Piece

Mid Century Modern shelving emerged during the mid-20th century, between the 1930s and the 1960s. It brought a fresh, innovative approach to furniture design, heavily influenced by natural shapes, novel materials, and a keen emphasis on functionality.

Characteristics of Mid Century Modern Shelving

The primary characteristics of Mid Century Modern shelving are a refined simplicity, minimal ornamentation, and quality craftsmanship. You’ll find a strong use of natural wood, combined with new materials like plastic, plywood, glass or metal.

Simple, Clean Lines

Simplicity is a word that defines Mid Century Modern design. Shelving from this era portrays that beautifully, featuring straight, clean lines and an absence of gratuitous decoration. This gives a sense of openness, lightness, ease and also afford ample space for storage.

High-Quality Materials

Mid Century Modern shelving units often employ natural wood like teak, walnut, oak or rosewood which offers an eye-catching, warm aesthetic. Designers also started experimenting with newly-available materials such as molded plastic, chrome, vinyl, and glass.

Functional Designs

Function is vital in the creation of these pieces. every design element serves a specific purpose. With creative use of vertical and horizontal space, shelves in this style provide an abundance of storage without sacrificing the room’s overall aesthetic.

Classic Mid Century Modern Shelving Designs

Famous designers of the Mid Century era produced iconic shelving designs that are sought-after collectibles today.

The Vitsoe 606 Universal Shelving System

Designed by Dieter Rams in 1960, the Vitsoe, with its adaptable design and minimalist aesthetic, is a definitive example of Mid Century design. It’s a smart, practical, and endlessly modular system that fits well in any modern space.

String Shelving System

Another iconic piece is the String shelf. Designed by Nisse Strinning in 1949, it embodies the simplicity and practicality of Scandinavia’s Mid Century Modern movement. Easy to assemble, light, flexible, yet sturdy, it’s a classic choice for modern spaces.

Eames Storage Units

The Eames Storage Units by Charles and Ray Eames epitomize the Mid Century Modern love for modularity, combining birch plywood, metal, and colorful panels to create a visually stunning, yet highly functional piece.

Buying Mid Century Modern Shelving

You have two options when buying Mid Century Modern shelving: originals and reproductions.

Originals

Originals can be found at auctions, vintage shops, and antique stores. They could cost a little more due to their age and rarity. Always verify the condition and craftsmanship before purchasing.

Reproductions

Reproductions are made today but contain the similar aesthetics and functionality of the originals. These can be found at modern furniture stores and online retailers. They are usually more affordable and more accessible.

Caring for Mid Century Modern Shelving

Proper care can lengthen the life of your shelving unit, helping it retain its timeless elegance.

Dusting

Regular dusting helps maintain the wood’s natural glow. A soft, dry cloth is usually sufficient for this task.

Cleaning

Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners. Mild soap and warm water can usually do the trick for stubborn stains.

Moisturizing

Using a quality wood conditioner once or twice a year keeps the wood from drying out and cracking.

With its timeless look, quality materials, and practicality, Mid Century Modern Shelves have proven their enduring appeal. Whether you choose an original or a reproduction, this classic piece will undoubtedly make a statement in any interior.