Making Sense of Mid Century Mirrors

Hudson Rectangle Gold Metal Frame Decorative Wall Mirror

Hudson Rectangle Gold Metal Frame Decorative Wall Mirror

Mid Century design is often a tricky thing to truly quantify in a conventional sense. For the most part, this is down to the simple fact that a specific start date for the movement in design is almost impossible to ever accurately state. 

Instead, the movement towards the design principles we know as “Mid Century” was given the admittedly vague name it has as a result of the fact it occurred around the same time other movements in art and design began as well. 

Usually, when we think of the term Mid Century,  what usually comes to mind first is the 1960s. The 60s were a time of rebirth for art and design and is often associated with the rise of post-modernist thought and art, with visionaries such as Andy Warhol at the forefront of the movement. 

The problem, however, is that what we consider to be post-modernism is usually just modernism that is ill-defined. Modernism is often credited to have first been birthed in the late 1910s when French artist Marcel Duchamp submitted an upturned urinal with his name written on the side to an art competition in New York. In principle, modernism is a movement in art defined by its rejection of traditional interpretations of art and form, arguing that anything can be art if someone defines it to be.

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Roper Mid Century Modern Gold Frame Decorative Wall Mirror

Roper Mid Century Modern Gold Frame Decorative Wall Mirror

In the world of mirrors, this is similarly the case, with what we consider to be Mid Century mirror design being defined by its rejection of traditional shapes and materials. Mid Century mirrors, instead, opt for irregular shapes and minimal framing devices.  

This makes Mid Century mirrors an excellent choice for modern homes that want something that won’t be a statement piece if desired. With sleek metal frames and bold design traits, many Mid Century mirrors become incredible pieces in modern homes looking to enhance a space, rather than dominate it. 

Boho and Rattan

Reina Round Rattan Mirror 30 Inch

Reina Round Rattan Mirror 30 Inch

One of the more iconic designs to come out of the Mid Century movement is, of course, the Boho and Rattan mirror. Both designs are fantastic examples of what can be achieved by adhering to the simple mythos of the modernist design, making these works especially suited for just about any room in the home! 

That versatility to not an exaggeration either, with both Boho and Rattan mirrors being at home in bathrooms, living rooms, entrance foyers, and even kitchens and dining rooms! This makes them the ultimate small addition to a space and a valuable ally for decorators and interior designers. 

A lot of the versatility of Mid Century design comes from the minimalism and emphasis on materials that are central to Mid Century and modernist tastes. These mirrors are meant to speak to a different sense beyond the mere visual and allow the owner to engage with their piece on a tactile level as well, factoring texture and feel into their thinking when placing their new addition in their home.

If you would like some more help choosing the perfect mirror for your home, don't be afraid to give our team at West Mirrors a call. Our friendly group of experts would be more than happy to provide some advice and recommendations!


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