Mid-Century Modern Furniture Icons

Florence Knoll didn’t just shape the look of mid-century modern furniture—she hired the people who defined it. Her collaborations with Eero Saarinen led to some of the most enduring furniture designs of the 20th century, and they still show up in our projects today. Mid-century pieces like the Womb Chair, Tulip Chair, and Tulip Table—designed by Saarinen for Knoll—pair perfectly with the Executive Chair, designed by Knoll herself.

We keep returning to these classics because they just work. The proportions are right, the lines are clean, and the materials age well. Whether we’re furnishing a historic brownstone or a New England dining room, these designs add just the right amount of modern contrast.

Let’s take a closer look at four of our forever favorites: the Womb Chair, Executive Chair, Tulip Chair, and Tulip Table.

The Womb Chair: Sculptural Comfort in Historic Homes

The name is weird, but the chair is perfect. Saarinen designed it in the ’40s to make people feel held—and it does. It’s oversized in the best way, and somehow works in both a 1900s historic Concord home and a modern city brownstone. On the left, the primary bedroom is layered in deep taupe tones, contrasted by a light neutral wool rug and a cream-colored Womb Chair with matching ottoman. In the middle, we placed this classic chair beside a historic fireplace in an 1850s brownstone, surrounded by modern furnishings for contrast. On the right, another Womb Chair anchors a corner of the primary suite, layered with colorful art and a view into the blue-painted office beyond.

The Executive Chair: A Quiet Statement in Brookline

We used the Saarinen Executive Chair in a recently renovated historic home in Brookline. Wrapped in light beige bouclé, the chairs tuck up to a natural walnut table made by the homeowner’s brother. Across from them sits a new black velvet sofa. The space mixes modern design with personal touches—like family heirloom art on the back wall. The chair fits right in: clean lines, just enough personality, and always comfortable. Originally introduced in 1950, it’s still a favorite in both residential and commercial interiors.

The Tulip Chair: Instant Cool for Dining Spaces

There’s no denying the Tulip Chair brings instant attitude. A sleek pedestal base, molded seat, and bold silhouette—it’s graphic, sculptural, and always modern. We used a set in a quiet dining room with a vintage wood table. The contrast was intentional and just right. Bonus points: these chairs swivel and offer an optional upholstered seat—we chose navy to tie in with the colors in the artwork.

The Saarinen Table: No Visual Clutter

We love pairing the Saarinen Table with traditional interiors. It’s been knocked off for decades, but the real thing holds its own. In historic homes, it adds just the right amount of modern polish. The pedestal base keeps things light and open—no visual clutter underneath. It’s one of the easiest mid-century modern furniture classics to integrate into almost any room. And while we don’t condone buying the knockoff, maybe it’s not all bad—bringing chic design to the masses at an affordable price.

Why We Keep Returning to Mid-Century Modern Furniture Classics

There’s a reason we keep turning to mid-century modern furniture classics—they layer effortlessly into almost any interior. They hold their own next to antique woodwork or minimalist architecture. And most importantly, they still feel good to use every day. Sure, the price tag for the real thing isn’t always wallet-friendly, but you’re paying for quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design. If you can resist, skip the knockoffs. But like we said—we get it. Everyone deserves access to great pieces. ‘Knock-offs’ is a debate for another blog post. Read more here to learn more about our decorating services.