Mid-century modern dining room with wooden table, woven chairs, dark accent wall, lounge chair, and large window with indoor plant.

March 23, 2026 Sarah Daw

Mid Century Modern Inspired Lighting

Mid Century Modern design was an incredibly impactful style post-war; it brought a warmth to the already modern international style that was popular during the 1930's Bauhaus movement. The style was cultivated by many visionary designers out of the Cranbrook academy in Michigan; big names like Eames, Saarinen, Nelson, and Knoll were pushing organic sculptural shapes, clean lines and functionality. This was a direct opposition to the ornate and heavy designs of past styles like Baroque, Victorian, and Art Deco.

Most people associate Mid Century Modern design with chairs, however, the lighting also stands out. Designers like Isamu Noguchi, George Nelson, and Charlotte Perriand created lighting that was functional but also incredibly sculptural. The designs were further pushing the idea that lighting can be a decorative centerpiece in a room. These designs are still impactful today.

Bubble Pendants

The Saucer Pendant by George Nelson was created to be more accessible and affordable than the silk designs coming out of Sweden at the time. This has become a classic Mid Century shape and design that many manufacturers are taking inspiration from today.

Jupiter Pendant by Hudson Valley

Cocoon Pendant by Maxim

Oval paper lantern pendant light with ribbed texture, softly glowing against a neutral background.

Bayu Pendant by Hudson Valley

White scalloped pendant light hanging over a bedside table in a bold red bedroom with a plant and framed art.

Akari Light Sculptures

Isamu Noguchi was a Japanese artist and furniture designer that was famous for his sculptural furniture, art, lighting. The Akari lanterns are a crafted using washi paper and bamboo to create a soft glow while adding a striking shape into a room. The fixtures that take inspiration from Noguchi add the perfect Mid Century touch to a room.

Greendale Lamp by Hudson Valley

A glowing sculptural floor lamp beside an armchair, marble side table, and artwork on a deep red wall.

Brisa Wall Sconce by Hudson Valley

A wavy vertical wall lamp glowing against dark floral wallpaper.

Cy Lamp by Hudson Valley

A tall rectangular table lamp with a fabric shade and metal base.

PH 5

The PH5 pendant was originally created by Poul Henningsen as a technologically advanced light that could keep up with the constant evolution of light bulbs. Due to the layers in the shade, the pendants casts a glare-free soft glow that sets a great mood in a room. The shape has now been translated into flush mounts, chandeliers, etc.

Barron Pendant by Hudson Valley