There is no doubt that people began to think of style and functionality in a very different light after the mid-century modern movement revolutionized furniture design. With clean lines, minimalism, and an emphasis on practicality, mid-century modern designers created a new generation of furniture that was both stylish and comfortable.
Despite the fact that the Mid Century Modern era was well-known for being the “Modern Chair’s Golden Age”, the inventiveness of its designers gave rise to a number of the most sought-after mid-century modern sofas.
In this post, we will take a look at the 10 most iconic Mid Century Modern sofas you can pick whether you are a connoisseur, lover, or just curious about this fascinating design era.
1. LC3 Grand Model Sofa by Le Corbusier, 1929
Designer: Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, Charlotte Perriand
Year: 1929
Here’s living proof that stylish, contemporary decor can yet be cozy. In fact, the Le Corbusier group gave this chair and its smaller version, the LC3 Grand Modele Armchair, the nickname “cushion baskets” due to how comfortable they are. Even though it was created in 1928, for the past 90 years it has been regarded as a must-have for the mid-century.
▸ Shop at Design Within Reach I $9,170
▸ Shop Replica at Interior Icons I $2,999
2. Florence Knoll Relaxed Sofa, 1954
Designer: Florence Knoll Bassett
Year: 1954
The Florence Knoll sofa was first introduced in 1954, and was designed by American designer and entrepreneur Florence Knoll during her tenure as director of Knoll’s Planning Unit, a trailblazing “design consulting service” that established the benchmark for Mid Century Modern workplace design. The idea of the Florence Knoll sofa was to design a piece of furniture simple enough to pair well with any other stylized iconic mid-century modern accent chairs.
The result, a sleek, angular profile and a visible metal frame that can be seamlessly integrated into both a glass-walled reception area or a cozy living room.
▸ Shop at Smart Furniture I $12,840
▸ Shop Replica at Interior Icons I $3,165
3. Eames Sofa Compact, 1954
Designer: Charles and Ray Eames
Year: 1954
Designed by visionary American designers Charles and Ray Eames, the Eames Sofa Compact, is a prime example of their continuous exploration of ways to achieve comfort with minimal materials. Set on a simple metal frame with a seat that extends just 2.5 feet from the wall — yet this mid century modern sofa comfortably seats three adults.
In spite of the sofa’s thin seat, its ergonomic design and firm cushions of urethane foam make it feel much more comfortable than it appears to be. It offers a variety of upholstery options, from color blocked versions to this fresh and colorful version made in collaboration with HAY.
▸ Shop at Smart Furniture I $5,700
4. Nelson Marshmallow Sofa, 1956
Designer: George Nelson
Year: 1956
You can’t help but smile when you see the George Nelson Marshmallow Sofa. Its 18 atom-like cushions seemingly float above its tubular steel frame in the act of whimsy and Pop Art. Even so, this iconic mid-century modern sofa is comfortable, durable, and – yes – practical: The cushions detach for easy cleaning and interchangeable for ensuring even wear across all cushions.
It’s certainly bolder than most mid-century modern furniture, as it marks a transition from mid-century modern to 1960s pop art.
▸ Shop at Smart Furniture I $5,285
5. ABCD Lounge Sofa by Pierre Paulin, 1968
Designer: Pierre Paulin
Year: 1968
The ABCD sofa by Pierre Paulin is famous due to its attractive and curvy form. Its design was inspired by a very familiar household object, an egg box. This three-seater was the first edition of the ABCD series designed for Artifort in 1968.
The slightly declining curved seats are individual fiberglass seat shells, providing every user with their own comfortable space ensuring a sense of privacy.
6. Soriana Sofa by Afra & Tobia Scarpa, 1969
Designer: Afra & Tobia Scarpa
Year: 1969
Soriana is a 1970s style characterized by its soft curves, loose upholstery, and unique metal clamp holding its cushions together, creating a feeling of relaxed comfort. Despite its relaxed appearance, it is still a bold and iconic piece of contemporary design.
The Soriana sofa is low and invites you to sink into its curves, it comes in a variety of colors and can be paired with its smaller variation, the Soriana Lounge Chair.
If you’re looking for the classic style and comfort of a Soriana sofa but can’t find the original, don’t despair! A replica can be a great alternative, offering the same look and feel without having to search high and low. Not only a Soriana sofa replica usually easier to locate and more affordable, but it’s often made with similar materials, ensuring the same level of quality and comfort.
7. Camaleonda Sofa by Mario Bellini, 1970
Designer: Mario Bellini
Year: 1970
There’s a good chance you’ve seen the Camaleonda Sofa on Instagram. This bulbous puffy sofa has never been more popular. Since Mario Bellini designed this modular sofa back in 1970, design lovers around the world have been wowed by its endless adaptability.
The Camaleonda sofa is made of distinct tufted sections that can be arranged in countless ways, from sectionals and armchairs to ottomans and daybeds. Making this iconic sofa extremely versatile to suit every mood and interior style.
▸ Shop Replica at Interior Icons I $4,099
▸ Shop Replica at Eternity Modern I $5,228
8. DS-600 Modular Sofa, 1972
Designer: Ueli Berger, Eleonore Peduzzi-Riva, Heinz Ulrich, Klaus Vogt
Year: 1972
Today, over 50 years after its introduction, the DS-600 sofa is still recognized as a masterpiece among interior designers and tastemakers. With its versatility and modular design, the DS-600 has the ability to adapt to any individual taste and personal style.
Made with a hard foam core covered with a down-lined cushion, this iconic sofa can be easily connected to form a continuous and comfortable seating surface. In fact, it’s even found its place in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s longest sofa!
Whether you are looking for a comfortable place to lounge or a statement piece for your living room, the DS-600 is the perfect choice.
▸ Shop Replica at Eternity Modern I $6,759
9. Togo Sofa by Michel Ducaroy, 1973
Designer: Michel Ducaroy
Year: 1973
Michel Ducaroy, the legendary French designer, had a eureka moment one morning while brushing his teeth. The folding of his aluminum toothpaste tube sparked a brilliant idea – to create the cult-favorite Togo sofa series. With its cushy, crimped design that hugs the ground, Togo quickly became one of the most recognizable furniture designs in the world.
Produced and sold by Ligne Roset, the Togo sofa has stood the test of time and is still as popular today as it was 50 years ago. In fact, with over a million pieces sold in 72 countries, the Togo has become a worldwide bestseller and continues to captivate audiences with its hipster-chic appeal.
▸ Shop at Ligne Roset I $7,220
▸ Shop Replica at Amazon I $609.99
10. Terrazza Sofa by Ubald Klug, 1973
Designer: Ubald Klug
Year: 1973
Designed in 1973 by the talented Swiss designer, Ubald Klug, the Terrazza sofa was influenced by the breathtaking terraced landscapes. Comprised of modular pieces with seven graduated leather-wrapped cushions set upon a rectangular base, this sofa from De Sede is expandable to your heart’s desire.
While it may have been called “monstrous” by The New Yorker when it was first released, its unique design made it synonymous with 1970s glam for decades to come. Multiple sellers are now offering them, so you can get your lounge dreams fulfilled.
▸ Shop Replica at Eternity Modern I $2,199
People Also Ask These Questions About The Most Iconic Mid Century Modern Sofas
Q: What makes a sofa mid-century modern?
A: Mid-century modern is a well-known style, but what sets its sofa apart from others can be summarized by these distinct features: The function always prevails over form. Most mid-century sofas come in solid colors and mix textures for an authentic look. The majority of mid-century couches feature a low profile and a rectilinear design with little to no extra ornamentation.
Q: Are mid-century modern sofas comfortable?
A: As designers of this era focused on functionality over needless design, most Mid Century Modern sofas are made to make you feel comfortable and cozy. Most of iconic midcentury modern sofas are popular for their soft, cushioned, and comfortable sit.
