I’m not one to denounce mid-century modern design, but I’ll confess that I’ve never been a huge fan of chunky, sculptural seating. It’s easy for statement chairs to overwhelm a space – particularly in a dining room.
Yet recently, I was reminded of the joy of design: namely, that it constantly challenges our expectations. After stumbling upon a snapshot of the kitchen-dining area in Jennifer Garner’s California home, I realized that the look I once doubted can, in fact, serve as a magnificent focal point.
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Recreate Jennifer Garner’s Mid-Century Modern Dining Space
Exaggerated shape
Modway Compose Barrel Chair
Chunky, curved, and utterly luxurious, this is the dining chair of dreams. It would work perfectly as a living room accent piece, too.
Modern feel
Wade Logan Braien Low Back Dining Chair
If you’re looking for seating that’s a little more streamlined, try a silhouette like this one. It’s eye-catching without feeling too bold.
Alternative texture
Modway Verity Chenille Dining Chair
Sumptuous and elegant with a little more open space, this is another brilliant way to channel Jennifer’s look. I love the chenille finish, too.
Metallic finish
Mawson Cast Aluminum Decorative Bowl
If you really want to nail Jennifer’s look, try investing in some dining table decor like this chic dish. It’s ideal for a rustic space.
Enchanting shade
Another dining room staple? A vase, of course. Jennifer showcases earthy ceramic pieces, but I have a soft spot for this stormy blue terracotta vase.
Chic accent piece
Cotton Velvet Indigo Throw Pillow Cover
Want to add a pop of color to your dining setup without splashing out on seating? Opt for accent pieces like this handsome indigo pillow cover.
While I’ve been totally won over by this striking silhouette, the shade of Jennifer’s dining chairs is just as stunning. The velvet fabric looks gray in some light, and navy in others; paired with the rich wooden surfaces in the space, it feels elegant and undeniably luxurious.
Yet in spite of all this luxury, the chairs aren’t imposing. In fact, I’d say they have the opposite effect: harnessing the power of low-slung, curvaceous furniture – a hallmark of mid-century modern style – they help to create a room that feels warm, joyful, and inviting.
One detail that I particularly adore is the brass pedestal base of the chairs. It echoes their swooping shape and matches perfectly with the round dining table, while also introducing another rustic texture to the space.
You might think that the wood floors, wood table, and stone fireplace lean a little heavy into the farmhouse decor trend, but yet again, the shape of the chairs is crucial: instantly providing that mid-century vibe, they ground this room in a more contemporary aesthetic. (Which is seamlessly tied together by the magnificent chandelier above the table.)
Mid-century modern seating can make a statement in any room – but it also invites comfort and pause
(Image credit: Future)
To me, this type of furniture brings to mind leisurely meals and cozy nights in, but designers say that it actually brings a distinct energy into interiors.
‘Curves create flow,’ explains Emilia Guasconi, Feng Shui expert and founder of Your Abundant Space. ‘The eye moves smoothly around the room instead of getting caught on sharp corners or hard edges.’
The curved seating helps to make Jennifer’s space feel dynamic and visually stimulating – although the velvet upholstery certainly invites a feeling of relaxation, too. ‘Soft, textured materials slow energy down and invite you to settle in,’ adds Emilia.
Design is constantly evolving, offering endless opportunities for inspiration. I might have once shied away from statement seating, but Jennifer’s dining room has changed my mind – and reminded me that the very best interiors are full of surprises.
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Dining and Cooking