Mid Century Modern Furniture Chicago, IL

Mid-Century Modern Design in Chicago: A Guide to Furniture, Art, and Decor

Chicago located on the banks of Lake Michigan is found in a low lying area and is not set on a modern hill and due to its geographic location is aptly named the Windy City. Its rich architectural history has been a hub for mid-century modern design for many years. From residential buildings to commercial spaces, the city is full of examples of this timeless aesthetic. This guide will provide an overview of mid-century modern design in Chicago, including notable architects, designers, and manufacturers, as well as where to find mid-century modern furniture, art, and decor.

Mid-Century Modern Architecture in Chicago

Chicago's architectural legacy is widely known, and mid-century modern buildings make up an important part of it. The Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) campus is a prime example of this style, with buildings designed by Mies van der Rohe and other prominent architects. The campus is an architectural masterpiece, showcasing the clean lines, open floor plans, and use of glass and steel that are characteristic of mid-century modern architecture. The John Hancock Center, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, is another notable example of this style in Chicago.

Furniture and Decor in Chicago

Chicago has a thriving mid-century modern, danish & vintage furniture and decor scene, with many shops and showrooms specializing in this style and even a huge mid century warehouse. Interior designers and collectors from nearby cities and neighborhoods such as Evanston, Oak Park, and Highland Park are especially interested in this design aesthetic. Other notable mid-century modern furniture manufacturers and designers from the Chicago area include Harry Bertoia, Florence Knoll, and Charles and Ray Eames.

Contemporary and Postmodern Design in Chicago

While mid-century modern design remains popular in Chicago, the city is also home to a thriving contemporary and postmodern design scene. The Aqua Tower, designed by Jeanne Gang, is a striking example of contemporary architecture in Chicago. This mixed-use building features undulating balconies that give the facade a sculptural quality. Another notable contemporary designer from Chicago is Dirk Denison, who is known for his minimalist and modernist approach to design.

A History of Design that Lifts the Windy City 

Mid-century modern design has left a lasting impact on the architecture and design landscape of Chicago. From the Illinois Institute of Technology to the John Hancock Center, this style can be seen throughout the city's iconic buildings. In addition, the city's vibrant furniture and decor scene make it the perfect destination for anyone looking to add a touch of mid-century modern style to their home or office.

Early Set of Two ( 2 ) Low Profile Art Deco Sculptural Lounge Chairs After William Haines / Billy Haines, USA, c. 1940s
Early Set of Two ( 2 ) Low Profile Art Deco Sculptural Lounge Chairs After William Haines / Billy Haines, USA, c. 1940s-ABT Modern
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Danish Mid-Century Modern Round Expansion Dining Table w/ Pedestal Base in Teak by Skovby Møbelfabrik, Denmark, c. 1970's
Danish Mid-Century Modern Round Expansion Dining Table w/ Pedestal Base in Teak by Skovby Møbelfabrik, Denmark, c. 1970's-ABT Modern
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Rare Mid-Century Modern Architectural Ebonized Armchair in Maple, Leather & Brass by Harold Schwartz for Romweber, USA, 1960s
Rare Mid-Century Modern Architectural Ebonized Armchair in Maple, Leather & Brass by Harold Schwartz for Romweber, USA, 1960s-ABT Modern
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$2,800.00
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Prouts Neck Sunset by James Mattinson, 18x24, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2025
Prouts Neck Sunset by James Mattinson, 18x24, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2025-ABT Modern
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Set of Two ( 2 ) Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs w/ Matching Ottomans in Solid Teak by Domino Møbler, Denmark, c. 1970's
Set of Two ( 2 ) Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs w/ Matching Ottomans in Solid Teak by Domino Møbler, Denmark, c. 1970's-ABT Modern
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Set of Three (3) Mid-Century Italian Modern Nesting Tables in Solid Walnut In the Manner of Ico Parisi, Italy, c. 1960s
Set of Three (3) Mid-Century Italian Modern Nesting Tables in Solid Walnut In the Manner of Ico Parisi, Italy, c. 1960s-ABT Modern
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Danish Mid-Century Modern Model 85 Ladderback Dining Chair in Teak by Niels Otto Møller for J.L. Møller Mobelfabrik, Denmark, c. 1960s
Danish Mid-Century Modern Model 85 Ladderback Dining Chair in Teak by Niels Otto Møller for J.L. Møller Mobelfabrik, Denmark, c. 1960s-ABT Modern
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$1,195.00
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The Fog Warning (Winslow Homer) by James Mattinson, 36x48, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2021
The Fog Warning (Winslow Homer) by James Mattinson, 36x48, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2021-ABT Modern
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$10,500.00
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Set of Four ( 4 ) Mid-Century Danish Modern Model OD-61 Counter Height Bar Stools by Erik Buch for O.D. Mobler, Denmark, 1960's
Set of Four ( 4 ) Mid-Century Danish Modern Model OD-61 Counter Height Bar Stools by Erik Buch for O.D. Mobler, Denmark, 1960's-ABT Modern
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$9,800.00
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Danish Mid-Century Modern 8-Drawer 'Triennale' Mod. L-32-6 Dresser / Credenza in Teak, by Arne Vodder for Sibast Mobler, Denmark, c. 1950s
Danish Mid-Century Modern 8-Drawer 'Triennale' Mod. L-32-6 Dresser / Credenza in Teak, by Arne Vodder for Sibast Mobler, Denmark, c. 1950s-ABT Modern
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