Ideal v Great Deal – cool low-cost doubles to create Mid-century look

Introduce a retro vibe to your home with these key pieces – whatever your budget. Can you guess which are the great deals?

Ginevra Benedetti
By
published

The key to nailing a cool, Mid-century scheme is to mix core pieces that boast clean lines and organic curves, with strong geometric shapes and pops of saturated colour.

We've rounded up a selection of Mid-century style buys to help you achieve this popular look at home. The furniture shapes have a modern edge, as do the accessories thanks to striking colour finishes. We've found an ideal buy and a more affordable alternative – the great deal. Whatever your budget, Enjoy!

Related: Step inside this mid-century style, extended bungalow in Essex

The chevron cushion

mustard yellow cushions with geometric print

(Image credit: TBC)

Striking geometric prints ooze Mid-century style. Create a statement by mixing in a playful chevron stripe in a bold mustard yellow. Mustard, along with orange plays a key role in a retro colour palette. Both shades pair beautifully with more muted grey and powder-blue soft furnishings.

Buy now
Ideal: Ryker Cushion, £25, Made
Great Deal: Hofdeco Chevron cushion Cover, £9.99, Amazon

The retro coffee table

retro wooden coffee table with glass top

(Image credit: TBC)

These retro-inspired coffee tables both have plenty of curve appeal. The curved wooden legs and glass top details are both signature design notes for Mid-century furniture.

Buy now
Ideal: Tonon Time Coffee table, £871, Houseology
Great deal: Hansen Coffee Table, £159, Dunelm

The bright light

orange coloured desk lamp with white background

(Image credit: TBC)

Even when not lit these lamps both shine bright. The designs are statement retro accessories, in addition to being useful lamps.

Buy now:
Ideal: Wild & Wolf Task Desk Lamp, £72, Black by Design
Great deal: Gooseneck Desk light, NOW £35.99, Dowsing & Reynolds

The occasional chair

grey arm chair with white background

(Image credit: TBC)

There are noticeable differences admittedly, however both are simple shapes with versatile appeal. The soft grey upholstery effortlessly is paired with elegant wooden legs.

Buy now:
Ideal: Wilmot Armchair, £695, Habitat
Great Deal: Papillion Contour Fabric accent Chair, £249, Ideal Home at Very

The bench seat

solid oak wooden bench with white background

(Image credit: TBC)

Talk about when minimalist design makes a big style statement! A wooden bench works perfectly with so many interior styles. Both benches are made of solid oak, a timeless material with that offers longevity.

Buy now
Ideal: Croft Collection Lorn 4 Seater Dining Bench, £550, John Lewis
Great Deal: Camden Bench, £299, Next

Whether you plan to blow the budget or make a saving, these stylish buys are a great way to give your home a pinch of Mid-century cool.

Ginevra Benedetti
Ginevra Benedetti
Deputy Editor (Print)

Ginevra Benedetti has been the Deputy Editor of Ideal Home magazine since 2021. With a career in magazines spanning nearly twenty years, she has worked for the majority of the UK’s interiors magazines, both as staff and as a freelancer. She first joined the Ideal Home team in 2011, initially as the Deputy Decorating Editor and has never left! She currently oversees the publication of the brand’s magazine each month, from planning through to publication, editing, writing or commissioning the majority of the content.

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