How To Decorate a Mid Century Modern Bedroom

Are you loving the charm of mid century modern interior? Well, decorating a mid century modern bedroom in this style might just be one of the best decisions you’ll make for your home. It’s truly an aesthetic that will balance sleek and minimalist design with a natural warmth and functionality.

So, if you’re looking to design a beautiful mid century modern bedroom, I’m here to make it happen. I will give you with some tips that are super easy to follow and of course some practical advise as well.

What Is Mid Century Modern Design?

Let’s start off with the basics, what is mid century modern interior design, really?

So, mid century modern interior is known for its clean lines, functional shapes and a beautiful blend of natural and industrial materials. I would say it’s the perfect mix of form and function where everything has a purpose, but also looks very beautiful. Now, let’s break down the key features of this style:

• Wood: Darker woods like teak or walnut were staples, often used in furniture with sleek, slender legs.
• Clean lines: No frills. Everything is streamlined and simple, avoiding excessive ornamentation.
• Geometric shapes: Bold shapes like circles and triangles are often seen in furniture and artwork.
• Colors: Earthy tones paired with pops of bold colors like mustard yellow, teal, and orange.
• Functionality: Everything in a mid-century modern bedroom is purposeful — it’s not just about looking good; it’s about being useful, too.

Once you understand these basics, decorating a mid century modern bedroom becomes much easier. Also, if you want to dive even deeper into the design, its history and these key characteristics – check out this post. Now, let’s dive in and start decorating your bedroom!

Step 1: Start With a Moodboard For Your Mid Century Modern Bedroom

Just as with any design project, a moodboard is always an amazing way to start. However, a few years ago I only thought that a moodboard was for bloggers and professionals – but I was soo wrong. As soon as I started using a moodboard it all became so much easier – and cheaper actually. I knew exactly what I wanted and what would fit well together.

Why Moodboards Matter

So, now you know that a moodboard is really important, but why? Well, a moodboard helps you visualize the aesthetic your looking for. Mid century modern interior is a style with lots of different colors and patterns which can make it hard to visualize everything together. So, using a moodboard will help you narrow down your choices and help you stay on track.

I have always loved Pinterest for getting some really good inspiration for literally anything – but especially when it comes to home decor. It’s the most perfect place to look for different design ideas, furniture pieces and also color palettes.

However, if you’re more of a hands-on person, you can also create a physical moodboard with swatches, fabric samples and magazine clippings. Either way, this is actually an essential first step to make sure that your vision will come to life.

Here are some examples on how you can make a digital moodboard:

A few pictures with one color in focus – in this case mustard yellow.

Lots of inspirational pictures together with a few color combinations in the middle.

Find the products you like and put them together in a moddboard – just like a room to see how they look together.

Shop The MoodBoard

1. Bed frame | 2. Bedside Table | 3. Area Rug | 4. Planter With Wood Stand | 5. Wooden Dresser | 6. Wall Art | 7. Floor Lamp | 8. Table Lamp | 9. Wooden Armchair | 10. Throw Pillow | 11. Throw Blanket | 12. Terracotta Planter

Step 2: Choose the Right Color Palette For Your Mid Century Modern bedroom

The next important step is to choose a color palette you like, this will also set the tone for your mid century modern bedroom. When I think of mid century modern design – I think of color, lots of color. However, not in a messy or unorganized way but in a balanced way that makes the space feel warm and inviting.

Go for Earthy Tones + Pops of Color

A mid century modern color palette is usually a neutral base with pops of very bright colors. This palette makes the space feel larger and more calm. So, for the base, I would say to always go for a neutral color palette, such as white, beige or light grey.

Now that you have your base, you can really start to personalize your space with the colors you love. So, first, choose the base color of your furniture. Mid century modern bedroom furniture usually come in a dark wooden walnut or oak. But you can also incorporate lighter woods such as teak or ash for a softer, more Scandinavian-inspired take on the style. It’s all up to you and what you love.

So, the colors that mid century modern interior design is really known for are its bold accent colors. This could be a mustard yellow, teal, burnt orange, a deep blue or a beautiful green. All of these colors were very popular during the mid century era to make the bedroom feel truly retro. However, here it is important to stick to one or two colors to avoid the space feeling overwhelming.

Step 3: Select Timeless Mid Century Modern Bedroom Furniture

When choosing furniture for your mid century modern bedroom – it’s important that all pieces are functional, stylish and have that signature mid century sleekness. The key here is to choose furniture that isn’t too bulky or heavy, because this would clash with the airy and minimal vibe of the style.

The Bed

Let’s start with the most important piece of furniture – the bed. The typical mid century style on a bed is a low profile bed with tapered legs. For instance, something with a simple and rectangular frame. There should not be any ornate headboards or complicated carvings, just a natural wooden finish that will make the bed stand out.

Bedside Table & Storage

Next we have the bedside table and storage. Here, you should look for pieces with those signature slim legs and overall simple designs. A mid century modern nightstand are often minimalistic but very functional, with just enough drawer space for all of your bedside essentials. If you can find a set with interesting materials like brass or ceramic knobs – it’s even better!

When it comes to larger storage, such as a dresser – it’s important to think that it should match the bedside table with those clean lines and mid century wooden tones. So, keep things balanced and not overcrowded with heavy oversized furniture.

Step 4: Add Texture with Textiles

One of the things I love the most about mid century modern interior design is how it combines warmth with sleekness. I mean, you get all the clean lines of modwern design – without getting rid of the comfort. I believe the trick to achieving this balance is through the use of textiles – meaning rugs, cushions, throws and curtains. So, let’s go through how you can incorporate texture into your mid century modern bedroom.

Layering Rugs and Cushions

I think it’s absolutely beautiful to layer a large geometric rug with a smaller accent cushion – but in different textures. Mixing textures creates a form of dimention in the room without making it feel too busy.

But, what rug should you pick? Choose a wool or cutton rug – but also with abstract patterns or just simple stripes on it to give the space some visual interest.

When choosing pillows, it’s even more important to mix and match fabrics. For instance, choose both linen, velvet and cotton in a mid century modern color palette, such as mustard yellow, navy and cream. This mix of textures and colors will create a comfortable but interesting bedroom.

Curtains & Bedding

Next up we have curtains and your bedding. Here, you want to choose something light and airy, for instance linen or cotton in neutral tones. The reason is that you want to have a neutral base to decorate with pops of colors on your bedding and around the room. For instance, a mustard yellow decorative pillow on your bed and a matching blanket to throw over the bed. This creates a simple and very inviting space.

Step 5: Statement Mid Century Modern Lighting

I always talk about how lighting can make or break any room, as well as a mid century modern bedroom. The key here is to mix both function and style and of course a typical mid century table lamp can do just that.

Iconic Mid Century Lighting Fixtures

I love a beautiful statement light fixture, such as a brass sputnik chandelier. I believe it’s such as clean and bold choise to give your bedroom the most perfect glow.

In addition to this chandelier, you can also add table lamps, arched floor lamps and also wall sconces. So, when choosing your lighting fixtures, opt for sculptural quality and natural materials, such as brass, wood, metal or glass. This will change the whole atmosphere in the room.

Step 6: Add Greenery And Decorative Objects To Your Mid Century Modern Bedroom

One thing that will always give your space a personal touch and also bring life to your bedroom is of course greenery. Plants will help to soften the sharp edges of your mid century modern furniture, but also add a pop of color to your space. In addition to the greenery, you also need to incorporate the final touches with some beautiful decorative items.

Perfect Plants for Mid Century Modern Bedrooms

One thing that I truly believe is a definition of a mid century modern interior, as well as a modern plant – is a monstera. I love how easy this plant is to care for as well as it adds height and texture to the space, without overwhelming it. Another great option is the rubber plant or even a snake plant. Also, choose modern planters in neutral or earthy tones to complement the furniture.

Wall Art & Decorative Objects

So, mid century modern interior design absolutely loves abstract art and geometric patterns. So, choose artwork with framed prints of abstract shapes that will also tie the room’s color palette together.

Other decorative pieces to include is retro-style clocks, vintage mirrors with organic shapes and even a bold, modern sculpture.

And now you have your beautiful mid century modern bedroom done, with a few personal touches as well of course!

Final Thoughts

So, in conclusion, creating a mid century modern bedroom is all about balancing form, functional and personality. With the right furniture, textures, lighting and colors, you can truly turn your bedroom into a beautiful, calm and stylish space that reflects your personal taste.

Also, remember to keep things simple, stick to a cohesive color palette and don’t be afraid to add a few personal touches along the way.

Now, I want to know your favorite thing about a mid century modern bedroom? Let me know in the comments below and happy decorating!