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.

Top of Monhegan by James Mattinson, 22x28, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2021
Top of Monhegan by James Mattinson, 22x28, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2021-ABT Modern
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Mid-Century Scandinavian Modern Petite Sculptural Solid Pewter Vase by Metaalwarenfabriek , Holland, c. 1960s
Mid-Century Scandinavian Modern Petite Sculptural Solid Pewter Vase by Metaalwarenfabriek , Holland, c. 1960s-ABT Modern
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$195.00
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Mid-Century Modern Saber Leg Lounge Chair in Walnut & Original Fabric After Harvey Probber, USA, c. 1970's
Mid-Century Modern Saber Leg Lounge Chair in Walnut & Original Fabric After Harvey Probber, USA, c. 1970's-ABT Modern
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$2,495.00
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Organic Modern "Isle D'Palm" Modular Sofa in Leather and Palm Wood by Pacific Green, Australia, c. 2000s
Organic Modern
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Set of Two (2) Danish Modern 8-Drawer 'Triennale' Mod. L-32-6 Dressers in Teak, by Arne Vodder for Sibast Mobler, Denmark, c. 1950s
Set of Two (2) Danish Modern 8-Drawer 'Triennale' Mod. L-32-6 Dressers in Teak, by Arne Vodder for Sibast Mobler, Denmark, c. 1950s-ABT Modern
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Juliet by James Mattinson, 20x28, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2022
Juliet by James Mattinson, 20x28, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2022-ABT Modern
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Mid-Century Modern 'Platner' Lounge Chair by Warren Platner for Knoll in Luxurious Green Kravet Couture Mohair, USA, c. 1973
Mid-Century Modern 'Platner' Lounge Chair by Warren Platner for Knoll in Luxurious Green Kravet Couture Mohair, USA, c. 1973-ABT Modern
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Set of Four (4) Bespoke Møller Model #71 Dining Chairs in Teak & Leather by Niels Møller for J.L. Møllers Møbelfabrik, Denmark, 1960's
Set of Four (4) Bespoke Møller Model #71 Dining Chairs in Teak & Leather by Niels Møller for J.L. Møllers Møbelfabrik, Denmark, 1960's-ABT Modern
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From the Window by James Mattinson, 30x40, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2022
From the Window by James Mattinson, 30x40, Oil on Wood Canvas, 2022-ABT Modern
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Model 333 Danish Mid-Century Modern Three-Seater Sofa in Solid Beech and Original Floral Upholstery by Schou Andersen, Denmark, c. 1980s
Model 333 Danish Mid-Century Modern Three-Seater Sofa in Solid Beech and Original Floral Upholstery by Schou Andersen, Denmark, c. 1980s-ABT Modern
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$3,800.00
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