Mod Pods: Space-Age Decorating Comes Down to Earth
I'm a Chicago-based writer, editorial consultant, and bon vivant with ten years experience providing cultural content and marketing communications for local publications, businesses and nonprofits. I've written extensively on design and fine art for magazines like TimeOut Chicago, NewCity, TENbyTEN, Sculpture and Artkrush, and I'm currently the Managing Editor of Flavorpill Chicago. I live with partner, Christopher, on the South Side of Chicago.
I'm a Chicago-based writer, editorial consultant, and bon vivant with ten... More »
When first I saw the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey as a teenager, I wasn't just drawn to the special effects, the music, or the mysterious monolith. I was entranced by the look of it: the interior design of "Space Station V" (organically-shaped, blob-like red chairs and tulip tables against an all-white backdrop) and the stewardess in a passenger spaceship who wore white leather go-go boots.
Many of today's architects and designers are looking back to the future –– to the heyday of space-age looks, the swinging '60s –– for retro inspiration. It's a look that evokes youth and optimism: the Beatles, miniskirts, scooters...of shooting for the moon.
No need to turn your pad into a period movie set, though. '60s-era furniture (vintage finds or brand-new versions from Knoll or Fritz Hansen) can be incredibly versatile. A generous dose of orange in a white room telegraphs the mod feel effortlessly. And as always, lighting is key. Fortunately, lamps and light fixtures are often one of the most affordable ways to get a high-design fix. Read on for ideas on how to mod-ify your surroundings.
Many of today's architects and designers are looking back to the future –– to the heyday of space-age looks, the swinging '60s –– for retro inspiration. It's a look that evokes youth and optimism: the Beatles, miniskirts, scooters...of shooting for the moon.
No need to turn your pad into a period movie set, though. '60s-era furniture (vintage finds or brand-new versions from Knoll or Fritz Hansen) can be incredibly versatile. A generous dose of orange in a white room telegraphs the mod feel effortlessly. And as always, lighting is key. Fortunately, lamps and light fixtures are often one of the most affordable ways to get a high-design fix. Read on for ideas on how to mod-ify your surroundings.
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| Nothing is more '60s mod than a conversation pit. Designed by Roger Hirsch Architects for a Chicago townhouse, this swingin' space-age round lounge is recessed into the floor –– not an easy feature to replicate, but the groovy tulip tables and lucite chairs are affordable (and versatile) luxuries. |
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| Midcentury design is all about sleekness: unfussy, streamlined designs (and open floor plans) ruled. This home office space-cum-screening room makes ingenious use of a simple counter as desk space (with storage built into the wall, while the space above is left empty for projections on movie night. |
Chic simplicity: two slick round black chairs let the Pollockesque artwork (and the window to the great outdoors) shine.
by BKSK Architects
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Proof that mod can be cozy: an iconic Arne Jacobsen Egg chair and an Eames molded plywood chair seem to float atop a fluffy wool flokati rug muted lighting and a roaring fire are always warm and inviting).
by Ligne Roset
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Ligne Roset's biomorphic "Togo" line is vibrant and tactile. Is that egg a sculpture or a table? Either way, it's the kind of simple, quirky touch that makes a room.
Circular motifs have a very '60s feel. The shape of these bubbly crystal fixtures is repeated on the wall treatment. The muted palette and refined dining set are what makes such a bold, geometric repetition of pattern work.
by nARCHITECTS
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Orange crush, again. The sofa pops amidst an otherwise neutral, industrial space. In the picture on the left, note the bent-plywood walls with a sliding door that break up the open plan of an urban loft –– it's very much a "house of the future."
This inviting room has a very Scandinavian feel, incorporating sleek modern design with a warm, country house look (note the exposed ceiling beams). The Knoll Womb-eque chair is upholstered in a charming blue print, while the wood paneling around the fireplace is arranged in a smart geometric pattern.
Comments
Melissa Alvarado Sierra I love the wood paneling in the last photo, it gives the space a lot of warmth.
4 years ago · Like
Julian Green the 60s certainly inspired fun use of color - love that blue print on the Knoll chair
4 years ago · Like
Adi Tatarko Great retro inspiration! there is no other sofa like the Togo!
4 years ago · Like
HERMOGENO DESIGNS The conversation pit is a great use of space, unique and another way to tackle built-in furniture. I have seen photos of other such spaces from the '60's and I love them. Barbie Benton has a half circular one in her LA home. They're great!
4 years ago · Like
Ideabook updated on Sept. 7, 2009.
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