A Modern Menagerie

Greater Gainesville has always had a taste for mid-century modern design. In the 1950s, the University of Florida enlisted Frank Llyoyd Wright, famed mid-century modern architect, to design a fraternity house. Unfortunately it was never built, but a model of the house still exists in the Smathers Library’s special archives.

From the bright resurgence of the 70s and 80s, to the fairy-like aesthetic of cottage core, trends will come and go. But the clean, unique and simple style of mid-century modern design will always bring people in.

Defining Mid-Century Modern Design

Mid-century modern design emerged in the early and mid-1900s and is recognized as a bold contemporary style. This style uses clean lines and geometric patterns and combines modern functionality with retro aesthetics.

Many Greater Gainesville homes were built during the 20th century and feature vintage wood elements, making them perfect candidates for this modern twist.

Local interior designers Chelsey Cox and Rachel Rector of Chinotto House explain mid-century modern style as a subset of modern design. The design duo has been transforming local homes and businesses since 2021.

“We love to create contemporary spins on these historic homes,” Cox said. “That could be through unexpected color palettes or adding ultra-modern lighting to a space.”

Cox and Rector always recommend working with what a home already has. Mid-century modern design lends itself to visual diversity. Chinotto House creates a hyper-personal design adapted to each room.

Picking a Plant

Plants are a staple for mid-century modern design. Leafy greenery highlights the lines and monochromatic style that compliments mid-century modern. Simple, organic plants add life and color, without going overboard.

Finding the perfect plant is hard when there are so many options, but the staff at Serpentine Plants and Provisions make it easy. They offer a wide range of flora, pots and home and garden decor for any mid-century modern fantasy.

Serpentine’s manager and plant connoisseur, Dinah Mason recommends the Monstera adansonii plant which was popularized during the 1960s. These iconic plants are the bread and butter of mid-century modern design and will become the focal point of any room. They are also relatively easy to maintain and only need direct sunlight to flourish.

These other plants are great for beginners to improve their green thumb and look good while doing it:

• Aloe- This plant offers a unique look that can be harvested and used in cooking and skincare.
• Pothos- Known for their air-purifying properties, pothos will breathe life into a home and are a great option to hang from the ceiling.
• Snake plants- Versatile and hearty, these plants will grow all year and require little maintenance.

Thrifty Finds

A piece of vintage furniture makes a unique centerpiece for the perfect mid-century modern mood. Local antique stores are great places to find a one-of-a-kind, high-quality piece.

The Atomic Ark is a furniture and art gallery specializing in just that. Owner Jesse Flemming works directly with clients to find mid-century modern masterpieces for their home. He appreciates vintage furniture because of its made-to-last nature.

“It’s very obvious to the most untrained eye that there is a difference in quality,” said Flemming. “The devil is in the details.”

Finding decorations and functional pieces that spark inspiration is the first step to building a mid- century modern dream home. So many experienced businesses are practicing mid-century modern design in Greater Gainesville, creating a network of helping hands for anyone who wants to use this timeless aesthetic.

By Emily Zook.