If you've ever found yourself admiring the sleek lines of mid-century modern furniture, you're not alone. This post delves into the trend of investing in mid-century modern pieces by focusing on reasons why it might be a smart move for you. We'll explore the high demand and rising values of these items, discuss the balance between form and function, and highlight the timeless quality of mid-century design that still captivates us today. Join me and let's delve into the world of furniture investment.
Smart Move: Make Better Design Choices for Buildings and Homes
You want a smart move when planning a project — whether restoring a historic house, choosing a façade, or mixing old and new styles. A smart move saves money, keeps character, and avoids regrets. Below are clear, practical steps you can use right now to get results that look deliberate, not accidental.
Simple rules that actually help
First, know the goal. Are you keeping original features, updating for function, or creating a bold new statement? That one answer guides everything: materials, window size, and even paint color. Second, match scale. Big classical elements like columns or pediments need room to breathe; tiny details squeezed into the wrong scale look awkward. Third, pick two dominant ideas and stick to them—one historical reference and one modern touch. Too many concepts create visual chaos.
Budget matters. A smart move is choosing where to spend and where to save. Save on reversible updates like lighting or hardware, and spend on long-lasting structural fixes: roofs, foundations, and windows. For historic work, prioritize preservation of original elements that define the style—cornices, moldings, and sash windows often matter more than surface paint.
Spot the style fast and act wisely
Want to identify a style quickly? Look at rooflines, window shapes, and ornament. Greek Revival = strong columns and pediments; Beaux-Arts = grand symmetry and classical details; High-Tech = exposed steel and glass; Neo-Futurism = sweeping curves and bold geometry. Once you know the style, copy its proportions, not every detail. A modern door with the right proportions can sit well on a classic façade if colors and materials are chosen carefully.
Think about use. Public buildings often need grandeur; homes need comfort and efficiency. If you’re turning a historic building into apartments or offices, plan for modern systems early—HVAC, insulation, and wiring. Early planning avoids patchwork retrofits that ruin interiors and blow budgets.
If you want a bold mix, use contrast thoughtfully. Combine a simple modern box with one strong historic element—like keeping the original cornice or entryway. Use neutral base materials and let the contrast read as intentional. Test samples on-site at different times of day to see how light changes color and texture.
Finally, get one expert opinion before major changes. A local architect or preservation consultant can spot code traps, conservation rules, and easy fixes you might miss. A short consultation is a smart move that prevents expensive rework later.
Browse the tag posts for examples and how-tos: Colonial, Beaux-Arts, Greek Revival, Renaissance, High-Tech, Constructivist, and more. Each article gives hands-on tips you can apply to your project right away.