Decades Later, Mid-Century Design Is More on Trend Than Ever – 24 Nostalgic Pieces That Make It Hard to Move On
From true-blue revivals to intelligent riffs on what is arguably the greatest design era in history, really good retro proves remarkably timeless
The Wassily. The Wishbone. The Sputnik. The Tulip. The Eames. Following in the footsteps of other no-last-name rockstars of the era, it's hard to enumerate a more legendary roster of design icons.
Decades later, mid-century design and its smoky, low-slung minimalism hasn’t lost its warmth, thanks to a steady stream of reissues and revivals. Retailers like IKEA continue to mine the archive through collections like Nytillverkad, resurrecting pieces that go gangbusters on the resale market, such as the Gullsudare paper pendant and the five-legged Dyvlinge swivel, newly imagined in orange corduroy.
But the more interesting story is how newer names are riffing on the era, pulling at its most recognizable tropes and turning them on their head. Copenhagen-based studio FRAMA, despite being a relative fledgling founded in 2011, grounds its designs in natural woods, chrome, and clean geometries that read increasingly current. Brands like Article, meanwhile, are pushing modularity further, streamlining sofas for a moment when big-city floor plans feel tighter than ever.
Kick back, relax, and revisit a retro time capsule that’s picked up a few new (old) tricks.
The Round is Homes & Gardens' collection of the must-have pieces shaping styles, trends, and ideas. It brings together thoughtfully curated products that express a single moment – offering readers inspiring ways to style their homes through seasonal themes, emerging looks, and everyday pieces.
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Julia Demer is a New York–based Style Editor at Homes & Gardens with a sharp eye for where fashion meets interiors. Having cut her teeth at L’Officiel USA and The Row before pivoting into homes, she believes great style is universal – whether it’s a perfect outfit, a stunning room, or the ultimate set of sheets. Passionate about art, travel, and pop culture, Julia brings a global, insider perspective to every story.