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.

Set of Two (2) Abstract Linocut "A" Digital Print Wall Art Paintings
Set of Two (2) Abstract Linocut
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Authentic Piano Bench in Walnut by Manual Arts Paired Well w/ Baldwin Acrosonic Piano, USA, c. 1960's -
Authentic Piano Bench in Walnut by Manual Arts Paired Well w/ Baldwin Acrosonic Piano, USA, c. 1960's -ABT Modern
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$1,750.00
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Vintage Primitive Folk Art Large Hand-Woven Palm Bark Basket Planter, USA
Vintage Primitive Folk Art Large Hand-Woven Palm Bark Basket Planter, USA-ABT Modern
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$650.00
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Early Mid-Century Modern Baldwin Acrosonic Piano in Walnut and Caning, USA, c. 1961
Early Mid-Century Modern Baldwin Acrosonic Piano in Walnut and Caning, USA, c. 1961-ABT Modern
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Danish Modern Model 49 Teak Side / Desk Chair by Erik Buch for Oddense Maskinsnedkeri A/S, Denmark, c. 1980s
Danish Modern Model 49 Teak Side / Desk Chair by Erik Buch for Oddense Maskinsnedkeri A/S, Denmark, c. 1980s-ABT Modern
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Expansive Authentic Turkish Vintage Handwoven Kilim Hallway / Stairs Runner Rug, Turkey, c. 1970s
Expansive Authentic Turkish Vintage Handwoven Kilim Hallway / Stairs Runner Rug, Turkey, c. 1970s-ABT Modern
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Set of Four (4) Danish Modern Windsor Style Dining Chairs by Erik Ole Jørgensen for Tarm Stole Møbelfabrik, Denmark, c. 1960s
Set of Four (4) Danish Modern Windsor Style Dining Chairs by Erik Ole Jørgensen for Tarm Stole Møbelfabrik, Denmark, c. 1960s-ABT Modern
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Mid-Century Modern Bentwood Lounge Chair in Beech and Original Fabric by Westnofa, Norway, c. 1970s
Mid-Century Modern Bentwood Lounge Chair in Beech and Original Fabric by Westnofa, Norway, c. 1970s-ABT Modern
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Set of Six (6) Bespoke Møller Model #71 Dining Chairs in Solid Teak & Leather by Niels Møller for J.L. Møllers Møbelfabrik, Denmark, 1960's
Set of Six (6) Bespoke Møller Model #71 Dining Chairs in Solid Teak & Leather by Niels Møller for J.L. Møllers Møbelfabrik, Denmark, 1960's-ABT Modern
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Mid-Century Modern Model 1140 High-Back Lounge Chair in Walnut and New Upholstery by Jens Risom For Jens Risom Designs, USA, c. 1960's
Mid-Century Modern Model 1140 High-Back Lounge Chair in Walnut and New Upholstery by Jens Risom For Jens Risom Designs, USA, c. 1960's-ABT Modern
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