A Mid-Century Modern Style Dorm
Now, here we are with the finale of my 3-part college dorm room design inspiration series. If you missed part 1, Scandinavian style; part 2, Boho Chic style, please check it out! Now, let’s get to talking about a very popular style choice, mid-century modern! If you live in an older dorm building or want to have a mature look of your dorm that can also transition really well into post-dorm life, you might want to consider a mid-century modern inspired style. It’s a classic design style from the 50’s that’s very timeless. It’s easy to find both vintage and new pieces from vendors like West Elm, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, AllModern, Apt2B, Interior Define, or Rejuvenation.
MCM style dorm. Image created using AI via Canva
When it comes to MCM style - we are often thinking about the distinctly shaped legs for furniture, credenzas, sputnik light fixtures, bright or bold colors, lots of wood, clean angles or gentle curves, and bold graphic patterns. You can go very simple and clean with this style or incorporate some more funky elements that can give a space age or retro kind of vibe. I’ve done a lot of MCM style designs for my e-design clients and it’s really quite popular for young adults.
Designed by Joshua Jones, JJones Design Co.
I selected these pieces to create a MCM look for your dorm in the low to medium price range with some quality pieces that you can use for many years to come; consider it a little bit of an investment. I always tell my clients, regardless of budget, to buy the best they can afford because you’ll actually save money in the long run by buying quality pieces now instead of junk that you’re going to replace in a couple years or less.
Mid-century modern often tends towards a masculine look but it can be done on the feminine side too with a little work which I’ve done by creating a very gender-neutral look here. I’ve selected a swivel chair that gives a MCM feel and is great for relaxing and hanging out or studying. If your room has enough space, create a either a micro lounge area or reading nook. Again, in dorm rooms, this can often be accomplished by lofting the bed if you’re in a single room. The pouf here can also be used as additional seating while the rug, with a bold graphic geometric design, creates a foundation for the space. Like my other posts in this dorm series, the art is digital art from Etsy…which is really budget friendly as you can get it for super cheap and then print and frame the pieces in a way that makes sense for your wallet.
If you like any of these pieces- you can shop the look below.
Shopping List
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links and by clicking on them incur no additional cost to you. JJones Design Co. will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking on the link. Please understand that JJones Design Co. has experience with all of these vendors, and recommends them because they provide excellent customer service and quality products. We do not base our designs off of vendors that provide affiliate link commissions. Do not feel obligated to spend any money on these products unless you feel you need them or that they will help you achieve your goals for your design.
