Saturday, November 7, 2015

Mid Century Modernism

         Mid century modernism began in the 1950's and ended in 1960's.  Many characteristics that made up the designs during this time included flat roofs, angular details, asymmetrical profiles, expansive walls of glass, clean lines, bi-levels, wide open floor plans, and married indoor spaces to the outside.  These style of design was mainly prominent on the West coast.  The color schemes that were most popular were warm/earthy tones which consisted of mustard yellow; olive green; and pumpkin, and trendy colors which included pink; gray; turquoise; black; and yellow.  As for the furnishings, plastics, resin, metal composites, laminates, and fiberglass all helped to fuel their endless creativity.
        Joseph Eichler was a Finnish-American architect that produced furniture with Knoll.   Eichler developed mid- century tract housing subdivisions for the average American family.  In addition, he made sure to include post and beam construction, open floor plan, glass walls, concrete floors. He also built over 11,000 homes.
       Some of the famous furniture designers that contributed to mid century modernism included Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, George Nelson, and Isamu Noguchi.  Saarinen worked closely with Charles and Ray Eames.  Some of his furniture pieces he developed were the tulip chair, the womb chair, and the executive chair.  Charles and Ray Eames were architects, artists, industrial designers, and finally, filmmakers.  They developed La Chaise, The Aluminum Group, Lounge Chair, Compact Sofa, and Walnut stools just to name a few. George Nelson was an American Industrial designer who designed the Coconut Chair and Marshmallow Sofa.  Finally, Isamu Noguchi was an American artist, designer and landscape architect.  He designed for Herman Miller and his most notable piece of furniture was the Noguchi table.  

Past

 

Present 

 

Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSg1iH3siM8

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