Mid-century modern design is a style that emerged in the mid-1900s and has remained popular ever since. It is characterized by clean lines, functional use, organic shapes, and a little bit of a minimalist approach. The style has a fresh vibe with a retro feel and a seamless flow from the inside to the outside.
However, choosing the right color palette for mid-century modern design can be tricky and challenging. There are some common mistakes that people often make when trying to achieve this look, such as using only dark woods and muted neutrals, forgetting to incorporate current pieces, or not realizing how versatile MCM is. Here are the best 7 color palettes for mid-century modern design that you should try.
MCM Color Palette 1: Earth Tones and Bright Accents
Designed with the mid-century modern style, this working space features a palette of earth tones and vibrant accents
One of the classic mid-century modern color palettes is earth tones and bright accents. This palette consists of warm and natural colors such as ochre, muted yellow, tan, and brown, contrasted by vibrant and punchy colors such as aqua, acid green, and bright red.
This palette creates a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere that reflects the innovation and experimentation of the era. You can use earth tones as the base colors for your walls, furniture, or flooring, and add bright accents with accessories, art, or plants.
MCM Color Palette 2: Blue and White
Designed with the mid-century modern style, this working space features a palette of blue and white
Another popular mid-century modern color palette in interior design is blue and white. This palette consists of cool and crisp colors such as light blue, navy blue, gray blue, and white. These colors create a calm and refreshing atmosphere that contrasts with the sleek and industrial elements of the style.
You can use blue and white as the main colors for your space, or mix them with other colors such as yellow, red, or green. You can also use different shades of blue to create some depth and interest in your space.
MCM Color Palette 3: Pink and Teal
Designed with the mid-century modern style, this bedroom features a palette of pink and teal
Another fun and playful mid-century modern color palette is pink and teal. This palette consists of soft and feminine colors such as light pink, coral pink, blush pink, and teal. These colors create a warm and cozy atmosphere that adds some personality and charm to your space.
You can use pink and teal as the accent colors for your space, or make them the focal point with furniture, rugs, or curtains. You can also use different textures such as velvet, wool, or faux fur to add some richness and coziness to your space.
MCM Color Palette 4: Yellow and Red
Designed with the mid-century modern style, this living room features a palette of yellow and red
A bold and energetic mid-century modern color palette is yellow and red. This palette consists of bright and warm colors such as yellow, orange, red, and burgundy. These colors create a lively and dynamic atmosphere that adds some warmth and energy to your space.
You can use yellow and red as the pop of color for your space, or make them the dominant colors with walls, furniture, or art. You can also use different tones of yellow and red to create some contrast and balance in your space.
MCM Color Palette 5: Green and Beige
Designed with the mid-century modern style, this dining room features a palette of green and beige
Another soothing and natural mid-century modern color palette is green and beige. This palette consists of calm and earthy colors such as olive green , sage green , mint green , beige , cream , and brown . These colors create a relaxing and harmonious atmosphere that reflects the connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
You can use green and beige as the base colors for your space, or mix them with other colors such as blue, yellow, or pink. You can also use different shades of green and beige to create some variety and interest in your space.
MCM Color Palette 6: Black and White
Designed with the mid-century modern style, this living room features a palette of black and white
A classic and elegant mid-century modern color palette is black and white. This palette consists of simple and timeless colors such as black, white, gray, and silver. These colors create a sleek and sophisticated atmosphere that contrasts with the organic and curvy shapes of the style.
You can use black and white as the main colors for your space, or mix them with other colors such as red, green, or blue. You can also use different patterns such as stripes, polka dots, or animal prints to add some contrast and interest in your space.
MCM Color Palette 7: Purple and Gold
Designed with the mid-century modern style, this living room features a palette of purple and gold
A luxurious and glamorous color palette for mid-century modern design is purple and gold. This palette consists of rich and royal colors such as purple, lavender, plum, gold, and bronze. These colors create a lavish and opulent atmosphere that adds some personality and charm to your space.
You can use purple and gold as the accent colors for your space, or make them the focal point with furniture, lighting, or accessories. You can also use different textures such as velvet, silk, or metal to add some shine and texture to your space.
Let Hestya help you with color combinations for MCM design
You are not sure how to get the most suitable color for your Mid-century Modern interior design? Let us find out the best way for you to do it. With Hestya, you can discover your unique style preferences, get matched with professional designers who can create your perfect mid-century modern interior, shop for high-quality furniture and accessories at reasonable prices, and see how everything looks in your home before you buy. You can scan your living space with Hestya's 3D scanning app.
Hestya makes home design easy, and accessible for everyone. The best part is that you will be able to take a style quiz to know more exactly about your style.