Skip to main content

The case for midcentury modern lighting: How to add it anywhere (or everywhere)

The midcentury modern resurgence in home design has inspired many homeowners to get creative with how they style their spaces. Whether you claim to be a traditional designer or a minimal enthusiast, midcentury modern lighting can enhance your home decor by inviting in a fun spin on antiquary. We’ll show you some of our favorite methods for designing with midcentury modern lighting anywhere in the home.

glass globe mid century modern chandelier in living room
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Opt for some classic midcentury modern light fixtures in your living room

When adding midcentury modern light fixtures to your living room, you’ll want to opt for something classic and timeless. You can do this by using a single cone pendant light. Pendant lights are simple but add an air of elegance to your space. In the living room, they allow more notable features like your sofa or fireplace to become the focal points while also providing plenty of light and sophistication to the room.

If a cone light doesn’t suit your needs, you could try out a single globe pendant light. Both pendants can be wonderful lighting solutions for your space. Try to mix and match shapes to prevent your design from looking two-dimensional, and pick a pendant light that creates a sense of fluidity.

For something more elegant, opt for a spunky midcentury modern chandelier. If you prefer that your light fixture takes precedence in your design, choose an awe-inspiring midcentury modern chandelier to add a bit of grandeur to your space.

Try some midcentury modern outdoor lighting

Midcentury modern lighting is sleek, functional, and unique. With a focus on shape and simplicity, midcentury modern styles can add a lot of character to your design. However, when it comes to outdoor lighting, don’t shy away from obscure pieces that create an edge of excitement in your space.

Wall sconces to frame doorways are a fantastic way to light up porches and patios. Try using a midcentury modern wall sconce in a sleek matte black finish to create a sophisticated appeal. If you want something minimal, opt for simple, cylindrical wall sconces to create symmetry. For more pizzazz, try out an arched feature light or geometric lighting solution.

If your patio allows it, a simple Edison bulb pendant light or a small cone pendant light can be a fantastic addition to your space. Of course, you’ll need to have an overhang to incorporate a hanging light fixture in your space. But if you can do it, rest assured that you’ll have a stunning centerpiece to spark many conversations during family gatherings.

mid century modern wall sconce in modern bathroom
Shutterstock

Your bathroom may need a midcentury modern lighting facelift

In the bathroom, there’s no denying that a midcentury modern wall sconce is what will best suit the space. Try a double-globed wall sconce to create horizontal or vertical appeal. For example, a horizontally styled fixture is a perfect addition above a bathroom mirror. At the same time, a vertically styled solution would be perfect for framing the sides of the sink or vanity cabinet. You could also opt for a multi-globed wall fixture for additional lighting. Opaque glass globes are perfect for bathrooms because they won’t become noticeably streaky due to moisture.

Depending on your existing color palette, we recommend trying a matte black metal finish or a stunning gold to create the perfect accent.

glass globe feature in modern kitchen
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Don’t neglect midcentury modern lighting in your kitchen

When using midcentury modern lighting in your kitchen, it’s best to opt for statement pieces. The kitchen is often the central hub of the home, and it’s filled with pots, pans, appliances, decor, and plenty of cabinet space. With so much going on, your lighting can easily blend into the background. To liven up your space, we recommend opting for something a bit more unique.

Try a glass globe chandelier above your island to create lighting that makes a statement. Glass globes look stunning on their own as a pendant light or in a group as a chandelier. You can go as minimal or as extravagant as you like. We love the gentle glow of a classic Edison bulb inside an orb.

Alternatively, you could opt for some symmetrical wall sconces for a more subtle approach. For smaller kitchens, this is the perfect solution for adding adequate lighting without detracting from the original design of your space. Symmetrical wall sconces come in various shapes and sizes, so you can find something that suits your needs.

Midcentury modern lighting is perfect for adding a curated touch to your design that is both fun and minimal. Play around with different shapes to create the perfect look, and don’t shy away from transparent glass or gold accents on your light fixtures. Create a statement piece in your design, and wow your family and friends with elegant touches.

Editors' Recommendations

Amelia Wilson
Amelia Wilson (author pen name Amelia J. Wilson) is a content writer in Greenwood, IN. She often enjoys topics on…
What colors go with brown? How to make this seemingly drab hue look glam in your home
Brown doesn't have to be boring. Here's how it can jazz up your space
Brown living room walls with neutral color palette design

Brown tones have a reputation for being "boring." These earthy hues often have a tendency to feel dull and bleak for many people. However, this is largely due to poor design execution. If used well, brown shades can enhance a room’s design and bring a new sense of vitality to a space. Brown can be a wonderful hue to add to your home if you're looking to create a luxe and vibrant environment. These rustic shades can be natural, rich, and earthy when paired with complementary colors that let this hue shine.

Unfortunately, many homeowners struggle to find the best shades to pair with brown, which leads them to create spaces that feel drab, bland, or unfinished. Today, we’ll cover some of the best colors to pair with brown and how this stunning color can help revitalize your space.

Read more
The best green paint colors for a soothing, sophisticated home
Recommendations for warm and cool green tones to add to your space
Green wall color with plant nearby

Green is a color we’re seeing everywhere in home design. Named Color of the Year for 2022 by many of the most prominent names in the paint industry, green is a trendy hue that you can expect to see in many interior designs in the foreseeable future. Green has an incredible way of adding a sense of vibrance and authenticity to your space. So, if you’re a homeowner in need of a soothing and sophisticated shade, then green might be just what you’ve been looking for.

This color can help you invite a renewed sense of vitality and energy to a space, making it perfect for homeowners looking to change up their existing palette. While green was trending in home design as 2022's "it" color, it has become a popular staple even as we venture into the coming years. So, it's safe to assume that this wonderful shade will likely add a timeless and natural look to any space. If you're eager to incorporate green into your design scheme, here are some of the best green paint colors to inspire your next renovation.

Read more
6 easy ways to update your home for under $500
Update your home with these inexpensive, easy projects
Couple painting white walls

When most homeowners think of renovations, they think of time-consuming projects that always run over budget. And often, they’re right. But updating your home doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Tearing down cabinets and installing brand-new hardwood floors aren’t the only ways to up your home design game.

With a bit of planning and elbow grease, you can refresh your space with inexpensive home remodeling projects that will have a considerable impact. Here are six DIY home projects that you can easily complete for less than $500.

Read more