Mid-Century Modern Decorating Ideas for Fall

Time Several Hours

Budget $ $$$

Skill Level

WORDS BY Gillian Grefe

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Published on September 23, 2019

Although it started in the mid-1930s through the 1960s, mid-century modern style is back in the limelight, and it’s easy to understand why. Mid-century design focuses on understated looks with clean lines and minimal ornamentation: a mid-century-inspired room is perfectly done, but never overly done. The design style also offers a breadth of color options—bold hues, neutrals, and graphic black and white, to name a few. Materials follow suit: wood, glass, metal and even plastic are all welcome in mid-century-inspired homes. 

With these key principles in mind, we’re taking a look a mid-century modern decor perfect for fall. Mid-century designs often look to nature and aim to incorporate it in every room. As such, color palettes favor autumnal hues like rust, mustard, red and orange with occasional pops of blue and green. Add these stylish items to cart, stat, for an easy, mid-century fall makeover.

The clean lines and low profiles of mid-century sofas and chairs are a perfect match for simple pillows in splashy colors. Instead of leaning on texture and pattern, let color do the work. This copper pillow would look lovely with gray and charcoal upholstery, and this teal velvet pillow would be a beautiful complement to caramel-toned leather.

These candlesticks do double duty as both objets d’art and functional pieces. This funky centerpiece evokes Sputnik chandeliers at a much more affordable price point. Or, try this curvy brass candlestick. Tealights and tapers in white help ensure a classic, mid-century look. 

Maximize daylight even after the time change with a decorative mirror. This sunburst-inspired mirror would look right at home in mid-century designs, as would this asymmetrical wooden wall mirror.

Multifunctional trays are a great way to add panache and purpose at once. This wood and gold option comes in a set of two. Try using one in the kitchen and one on the coffee table.

Although glass and even plastic are all a part of mid-century design, nothing encapsulates the vibe quite like acorn wood with its warm, subtle glow, especially during the fall. We’ve already mentioned acorn pieces like the mirror and trays, but you can add even more elements through pieces like this plant stand, a sleek jewelry box or a geometric set of mirrors. Or, invest in an acorn bar cabinet perfect as we head into the holiday entertaining season.

Want to take mid-century modern to the next level in your own home? Start with our style quiz.

Words by Sara Watson