What keeps your spirits lifted during the hard times? For me, it’s embracing the simple joys of good design, whether you’re admiring from afar or enjoying the special pieces in your own home. When I look throughout my own Mid Century Modern condo, each object brings wonderful memories to soothe the soul. There’s the Formica kitchen table from our local Antique Gallery (the friendly workers helped us pack it into the car), the Heywood-Wakefield vanity (that one required a truck rental!) and of course the reproduction Predicta TV from our local vintage market (yes, it works and yes, we use it).
In this issue, we celebrate the Mid Century Modern icons that created something beautiful and inspiring following a time of war and depression. These innovators sought to find the perfect balance between form and function, each with their own unique aesthetic twist—from Russel Wright to Verner Panton, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Kenmochi, Sergio Rodrigues and Finn Juhl. We also meet the makers of today who are carrying on the Mid Century Modern tradition into the future.
The homes in these pages explore a range of Mid Century Modern styles and include both preserved mid century gems and thoughtful renovations for today’s living. You’ll find houses from Robert Rummer and Charles Du Bois, an Aaron Green home custom-built by Joseph Eichler and even a mid century hotel renovation by Paul R. Williams. There are also shopping guides packed with vintage, vintage-inspired and reproduction pieces to kick-start your own design journey.