Kelly's Approach to Mid-Century Modern Design

When I set out to design a Mid-Century Modern home, I always begin with intention. This style isn’t just about how space looks. It’s about how it feels to live in it, simple yet cozy. Mid-Century Modern design has a timeless quality that celebrates simplicity, craftsmanship, and a strong connection to nature, all of which guide my approach from the very beginning.

Bringing Nature Inside

One of the most important elements of Mid-Century Modern design is the relationship between indoors and outdoors. I’m drawn to spaces that feel open, light-filled, and grounded in nature. Large windows, natural materials, and thoughtful sightlines help blur the boundary between inside and out. Whether it’s warm wood tones, stone textures, or greenery woven throughout the home, these natural elements bring a sense of calm and balance that makes a space feel truly livable.

Form and Function

For me, good design always strikes a balance between beauty and purpose. Mid-Century Modern homes are known for their thoughtful layouts and practical solutions, and I make sure every design choice serves a function. Furniture should be comfortable, storage should be intuitive, and spaces should support everyday life. When form and function work together seamlessly, the result is a home that not only looks good but also feels effortless to live in.

Custom media center and dry bar in a MCM design following the vault of ceiling

Simple and Clean Lines

I’m inspired by the clean lines and understated elegance that define Mid-Century Modern design. There’s a quiet confidence in simplicity. Those uncluttered spaces, strong silhouettes, and carefully chosen details. By keeping lines clean and minimal ornamentation, each piece has room to breathe, and the overall design feels intentional rather than overwhelming.

My Twist: Mixing Vintage with Modern Finishes

While I deeply appreciate classic Mid-Century design, I also love adding a personal twist. Mixing vintage pieces with new materials allows the space to feel layered and collected over time. Maybe it’s an heirloom piece from a family member that we reinvent with new hardware or LED wiring. An iconic vintage chair paired with modern performance upholstery, or a sleek new surface alongside a well-worn wood credenza, creates contrast and character. This blend keeps the home from feeling like a time capsule while still honoring the roots of the style.

Vintage Marimekko textile art in new walnut frame with new custom metal staircase surround

Bringing It All Together

Ultimately, my goal is to create a Mid-Century Modern home that feels warm, timeless, and uniquely personal. By embracing nature, prioritizing function, simplifying forms, and thoughtfully mixing old with new.  The design becomes more than a style; it becomes a place that feels like home.