So much more than a piece of furniture, a mid-century armchair is a style statement that instantly brings character and comfort to any room of the house.
From luxurious, one-of-a-kind pieces, to affordable everyday styles, these chairs boast a classic, timeless design that appeals to all budgets and tastes. And needless to say, we’re head over heels for them.
What are mid-century armchairs?
Mid-century armchairs are part of a furniture movement that started around the mid-twentieth century. It was all about clean lines, classic features, functional design and premium materials. It meant out with the ornate and in with practical chairs, and mid-century replicas have become uber-popular statement chairs for modern homes too.
While some styles are more raised, many mid-century occasional chairs have a low profile, making them fantastic for families as they’re not too high for kids to reach.
Mid-Century Armchair Shopping Tips
Buying furniture is never easy, so we’ve put some pointers together to help nail your mid-century purchase.
- Prioritise quality materials – If you’re spending big bucks on a beautiful armchair, put durability at the top of your list. A solid wooden or metal frame will stand the test of time, making the initial investment worthwhile.
- Consider removable covers – No matter how hard we try to keep the crumbs and spills at bay, life has a habit of getting a little messy. Keep practicality in mind when shopping for an accent armchair and look for removable covers that you can easily wash. Alternatively, look for durable fabrics that can be spot-cleaned.
- Comfort is key -Sure, your shiny statement chair may look the part, but is it nice and comfy? Ensure the chair you pick offers good back support and suits the way you like to sit, in lounge areas and study nooks. It may sound simple, but this will allow your whole body to unwind each time you take a much-needed break.
- Does your space need a set? – Are you looking for a stand-alone statement piece or matching mid-century furniture? Think about the finished look you want to achieve in your home, as some styles may come with coordinating ottomans, side tables or 3-seater sofas.
12 Of The Best Mid-Century Armchairs In Australia
We’ve scoured the web in search of the best mid-century armchairs available in Australia. So, kick back and relax as we run you through our favourite finds.
Kamden Faux Leather Armchair, $279.99
Available in a choice of green or tan, this classic fits in anywhere. The signature mid-century frame provides amble support and beautiful lines, while the cushioned backrest and seat provide a cosy spot to unwind. Well priced and great for pairing up in twos for sitting areas, customers love it. So do we!
Castlery Madison Armchair $899
Say hello to your new favourite seat. The Madison Armchair has everything you’d expect from a mid-century piece. There’s the classic biscuit tufting, the striking round bolsters and the timeless tapered legs. You can tailor the fabric to suit your style too. Go neutral with Bisque, Stone and Granite, or be bold with Antique Gold Velvet and Aquamarine.
Paris Navy Mid Century Modern Occasional Chair $489
Luxurious lounging never looked better. Featuring a solid timber frame and swoon-worthy linen upholstery, the Paris Occasional Chair ticks every box when it comes to statement home styling. Designed with no-slump spring technology, your back support and comfort are covered too.
Darcy Upholstered Armchair, $549
With elegance in spades, the Darcy combines the clean frame of traditional mid-century armchairs with a curved back for extra comfort. It comes in green and beige hues and features stunning herringbone fabric you’ll be happy to show off.
Danielle Boucle Mid-Century Armchair, $249.99
The only thing better than boucle is when it’s paired with mid-century style! At under $250, this versatile occasional chair is budget-friendly and ready to slip straight into almost any home style – from Scandi to Coastal. It has a tough rubberwood frame and high-density padded backrest and seat.
Tobago Accent Chair, $399
Packing plenty of rustic appeal and mid-century flair, the Tobago armchair slides effortlessly into all kinds of homes – from country to contemporary. It comes in a choice of black or tan and features a solid teak wood frame and a luxurious hide covering for comfort and texture. Just beautiful.
Stone Aldric Armchair & Ottoman Set $830
Sumptuously stylish, this Aldric Armchair & Ottoman set screams mid-century chic. With curved armrests and sleek channel stitching, it’s cosy and sophisticated; the perfect place to take ten. If you don’t want an ottoman, this beauty is available on its own. Also available in green.
Mid-Century Arundel Accent Chair, $279
This stunner has us all swooning! From its gentle curves and exquisite silhouette to its slender solid wood legs, the beauty is all in the detail. Fully upholstered for added comfort, it’s an excellent statement chair for the bedroom, lounge or office. Pair it with neutral furniture to let the blue do all the talking, or with other bold pieces for an eclectic feel.
Desmond Armchair $899
Made from solid Rubber Wood, this mid-century beauty oozes sophistication with its slender, contoured frame. Available in Opal Beige or Iron Black, the brass-tipped legs bring an extra touch of elegance perfect for bedroom corners.
Maland Sven Armchair, $899
If you’re looking for something ultra-luxe, the Maland is the answer. Made using stunning saddle leather and a teak hardwood frame, it’s ready to elevate any room you put it in. It comes in a choice of black, white, olive, tan or taupe leather and ages beautifully over time for a lived-in look.
Carlo Mid-Century Chair $1,299
Compact in size, yet big on features, the Carlo Mid-Century Chair is a fine example of the craftsmanship from decades past. From the refined, angular profile and tailored upholstery to the brass pencil legs, it’s a stand-out statement armchair. Choose from over 25 fabric finishes- if you can!
Eames Replica Mid-Century Leather Chair & Stool $1099
This list wouldn’t be complete without the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman. An absolute icon of its time, the classic design marries comfort and style beautifully. This affordable replica offers the same functionality as the original, with the upholstered footrest always on hand when it’s time to take a load off.
How To Style Mid-Century Armchairs In Modern Homes
Pair it up: Achieve a luxurious look on a budget by placing two chairs side by side instead of using a sofa. Think hotel chic and afternoons chatting next to the bar cart!
Add texture: Metal frames and leather finishes can sometimes leave a room feeling a little cold. Use throws, rugs, floor cushions or even a Moroccan ottoman to add texture and warmth to the room, giving your new armchair a cosy feel.
Deliberate clash: Place your chair next to a modular curved sofa or a modern side table with a completely different look. This will allow the chair to stand out and make a statement.
Top image: Castlery
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Looking for something a little different? From swivel armchairs to leather sofa beds, we’ve got stylish seating covered!
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