March 21, 2017

What are Mid-Century Modern Rugs?


Mid-Century Modern rugs have proven to be increasingly popular and integral to the design of many modern and contemporary interiors. The mid-20th Century saw a rise in new and innovative trends that inspired the colorful and vibrant designs of Mid-Century Modern carpets produced during this period. Read on for more information about these captivating pieces.
How and When Did Mid-Century Modern Rug-Making Begin?
The late 19th Century arts and crafts movement in Europe and the United States can be credited as one of the major influences of Mid-Century Modern carpets, as many of these rugs are inspired by or originate from old textile patterns and other fabrics. Many Mid-Century Modern rug designs are also based on ancient Eastern patterns, such as those created in Persia, Turkey and Asia. Art Deco remains another design movement that has had a strong influence on Mid-Century Modern and contemporary rugs.
Culture and art have been proven to be strong influences on contemporary rug designs. Mid-Century Modern carpets, as well as transitional rugs, are typically in line with current interior design trends. A recent cultural shift in favor of Mid-Century Modern decor has resulted in mainstream recognition of its great works of art.
How Are Mid-Century Modern Rugs Made?
Many Mid-Century Modern rugs consist of a wool pile, although some, such as those from Scandinavia, have flat weaves. Although silk has been used in rug production for thousands of years and is very popular in Tibetan rugs, use of synthetic fibers became popular in the mid-1900s, and synthetic fibers are commonly used in Mid-Century Modern rug production. Many rugs are custom-made, which means someone can choose a pattern and hand-pick the colors to be integrated into that pattern. Rug-makers will then weave a rug according to the chosen pattern and colors.
The contemporary designs of today continue to draw from a wide range of inspirations, including cutting-edge contemporary architecture, elements found in nature, simple harmonious textures, and scene-stealing splashes of color and patterns. Many Mid-Century Modern styles are reminiscent of stained glass or fine metalwork and employ soft colors that evoke the beauty of the natural world. Additionally, swirls, spots, stripes, abstract designs, and even animal prints are often used in modern carpet design.

Click the images above to learn more about each rug, such as when it was produced, its size, and the materials used in its production. View more from our extensive collection of Mid-Century Modern carpets on our website by clicking here.
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