Everything Old is New Again at JQ mid-century modern ATL
by Jamie R. Kern, ASID, ARIDO
President, Design Theory Interiors
Below: Heywood-Wakefield dining table and chairs from
By now it’s no secret that my personal design
style is far from a purist interpretation of any particular era or trend. In fact, I like to think that my work is more likened to the thrill of an exploding Pinata. Sure, there are certain things you expect. You specified the striped donkey Pinata filled with candy rather than toys or money. It’s detailed on your receipt. But the fun is in the anticipation of the variety of chocolates and sour balls . . . and perhaps a surprise squirt gun in the mix. While I don’t suggest using Pinatas as decorative elements in most homes, those little surprise squirt guns are indicative of the very secrets to creating dazzling interiors.
One of my favorite “squirt guns” is the mid-century modern designs of the 1940’s, 1950’s and 1960. I love
the elegant lines, soft curves and interesting angles. This photo is one corner of my living room. It’s easy to pinpoint the mid-century pieces: the white leather sofa, the 1940’s bar, the whimsical clock. But if you look closer you’ll see something interesting happen. An oversized 1960’s lamp rests on a Duncan Phyfe-style side table – a style that came to be in the early 1800’s. You’ll see a wonderful Klysmos-style chair – a style that is notably of ancient Greek decent – that was actually reinterpreted in the 1960’s. And if you could see into the opening door you’d see a turn-of-the century Renaissance Revival dining table and chairs.
Mid-century modern pieces have the subtleties to blend with almost any well-designed piece of any era. I love the dynamics of contrast when a clear lucite table is paired with a Louis XVI side chair. And that same table is equally as comfortable and effective in a minimalist modern home. These are timeless pieces that have survived and flourished for 70 years and will be a good investment for years to come.
That was the long way of getting to my point which is to share with you a great resource for some wonderful mid-century pieces. I recently found JQ mid-century modern ATL at the monthly Scott’s Flea Market after exhausting ALL of my local resources in search of a dining table for our new Toronto apartment. What we found was a mecca of Heywood-Wakefield pieces. Dining tables with gorgeous delicately curved legs and arm chairs with whimsical dog bone backs. I had found my soul mate in JQ. He wasn’t a guy just out to make a buck. Instead he’s someone with a real passion and appreciation for well designed pieces. He spends innumerable hours searching for great additions to his collection and his selection reflects that time and appreciation.
If you love quality, great design and timeless furnishings, take a look at JQ mid-century modern ATL on facebook where he keeps his fans updated on current selections and new additions for sale. You won’t be disappointed!
