A Category Comes of Age

Twenty years ago, most traditional antiques dealers would not have given mid-century modern furniture a second glance. It was too recent, too industrial, too far removed from the gilded grandeur of 18th-century French furniture or the solid craftsmanship of English Georgian pieces. Today, the finest examples of mid-century design command prices that rival those of much older antiques, and the category has earned its place in the most discerning collections worldwide.

At Source Me It, we recognised the importance of mid-century modern early, and we now source it regularly for clients who appreciate its clean lines, innovative materials, and enduring relevance to contemporary interiors.

The Masters

The mid-century modern movement produced designers of extraordinary talent whose work continues to influence contemporary design:

Charles and Ray Eames created furniture that was democratic in intent but aristocratic in execution. Their lounge chair and ottoman, introduced in 1956, remains one of the most iconic pieces of furniture ever designed. Original examples in good condition are increasingly rare and valuable.

Hans Wegner produced over 500 chair designs during his career, each one a masterclass in Scandinavian craftsmanship. His Wishbone Chair and Papa Bear Chair are among the most sought-after pieces in the mid-century market.

Gio Ponti brought Italian flair and architectural thinking to furniture design. His Superleggera chair, weighing just 1.7 kilograms, is a triumph of engineering and aesthetics.

Finn Juhl created sculptural furniture that blurred the line between art and design. His Chieftain Chair, originally designed in 1949, recently sold at auction for over half a million dollars.

Why Mid-Century Works in Contemporary Interiors

Mid-century modern furniture has an extraordinary ability to complement both traditional and contemporary settings. Its clean lines and honest use of materials create a visual bridge between periods, allowing it to sit comfortably alongside 18th-century antiques or 21st-century art. This versatility is one reason we increasingly recommend mid-century pieces to clients who want interiors that feel layered and personal rather than rigidly period-correct.

Sourcing Authentic Pieces

The mid-century market presents unique authentication challenges. Many iconic designs have been in continuous production, making it essential to distinguish between original vintage pieces and later reissues. We look for original materials, period-appropriate construction methods, and maker's marks to verify authenticity. Our network includes specialist mid-century dealers across Scandinavia, Italy, and the United States who can provide documented provenance for significant pieces.

Investment Potential

The mid-century market has shown remarkable growth over the past two decades, with the finest pieces appreciating significantly. Original Eames furniture, early Wegner pieces, and rare Italian design have all demonstrated strong investment performance. We believe this trend will continue as the supply of genuine vintage pieces diminishes and appreciation for the period's design achievements grows.

Our Favourites

We are particularly drawn to Scandinavian pieces for their warmth and craftsmanship, Italian design for its boldness and sculptural quality, and American pieces for their democratic spirit and innovative use of materials. Each tradition brings something unique to the mid-century story, and we enjoy helping our clients discover the pieces that resonate most strongly with their personal aesthetic.

Looking for authentic mid-century modern pieces for your home or project? Contact us to discuss your requirements and discover what we can source from our specialist network.