Betterliving March/April 2020

design workshop | INSPIRATION
Sofology
KARE UAE
How to master...
Mid-century
modern
Anam Clarke, founder of
UAE-based The Designers’
Studio (thedesignersstudio.com),
talks us
through this iconic design
movement and how to
bring it into your home
ABOUT THE STYLE
This timeless interior design style, which
emerged during the middle of the 20th
century, has a dedicated following and
it’s easy to see why. Teaming a distinctly
minimalistic look with an emphasis on
functionality, it is instantly recognisable
due to its juxtaposition of sleek lines
(think skinny peg legs), organic shapes
and blend of materials – imagine Don
Draper’s stylish apartment in Mad Men
and you’ll have the right idea.
WHY WE RATE IT
Mid-century modern influenced rooms
are packed with personality – its
trademark curves add instant interest to
a modern home. Plus, as pieces tend to be
compact yet functional, the style lends
well to smaller spaces and apartments.
HOW TO NAIL IT
Keep it simple. It’s not about
recreating a look from the past but
finding effective ways to weave the style
into your space. Start by choosing a few
key pieces that fit well with both your
lifestyle and your current furniture.
Use colour to add warmth. Capture
the mood by introducing some of the
more traditional colours associated with
this look, such as forest green, or earthy
hues like burnt orange, into the room.
Seek out the perfect pieces. Vintage
pieces may be harder to come by in the
UAE, but you can get your hands on
design classics that are iconic of the time,
such as the Eames Lounge Chair, from
Herman Miller. In addition, high-street
favourites West Elm and Chattels & More
have fabulous pieces inspired by the style.
From top: Double Bulb Table Lamp, Dhs299,
Letimotiv at Namshi; Full Twist chair designed by
Mark Goetz for Geiger, price upon request, Herman
Miller; Stockholm Sideboard in walnut veneer,
Dhs1,995, IKEA; Sand Brown Leg Elie Side Table,
Dhs299, Leitmotiv at Namshi
bhomes.com | 19