The 5 Best MCM Finds at IKEA, According to Designers (They’re So Vintage!)

published Nov 16, 2024
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If, like me, you’re partial to mid-century modern design, or MCM as I’ll be calling it for short, you likely know that these pieces can be pricey — I’m talking thousands of dollars. But if you love the look and not the price tag, I’ve got the perfect solution for you. IKEA, the beloved Swedish home decor superstore, has got us MCM fans covered.

If you’ve ever been in an IKEA store, you know there are a lot of pieces of furniture and accessories to choose from. It can be overwhelming to find exactly what you’re looking for. Digging out these MCM gems from IKEA’s enormous catalog requires some patience and plenty of know-how, which is exactly why I tapped two decorating pros for help: Madeleine Biache, joint founder and designer at DBD Lifestyles, and Cassiana Jensen, founder of Cassiana Jensen Interior Design.

If you’re looking for MCM pieces on a budget, check out these designer-approved picks below.

1 / 5
IKEA
$549.00

“I love the warm wood tones and sleek, unornamented, geometric design of this piece,” Biache says. This cabinet’s aesthetic makes it a perfect fit for any mid-mod space, and you really could put it almost anywhere in your home. “Its functionality makes it versatile enough for a bedroom, living room, or even a kitchen,” Biache adds.

2 / 5
IKEA
$499.00

“The dark wood tones and negative space in the headboard are the peak of mid-century modern design,” Biache says. Plus, this piece boasts form and function. “The under-bed storage makes this frame great for small spaces, and its simplicity allows it to work in a variety of color schemes and design styles,” Biache explains.

3 / 5
IKEA
$119.99

Pieces from IKEA’s STOCKHOLM collection are featured more than once on this MCM list for good reason, according to the pros. For Jensen, she loves the STOCKHOLM mirror “for its ability to brighten and expand any space with a warm walnut frame, making it a perfect fit for enhancing well-being in interiors.”

4 / 5
IKEA
$249.00

This chair stands out, thanks to its clean lines and comfort, according to Jensen. “This armchair complements any seating area, offering a cozy, stylish spot that supports both relaxation and a balanced design,” Jensen says.

5 / 5
IKEA
$279.99

The third and final STOCKHOLM item on this list is the coffee table — another piece that the pros say fits the mold of the MCM look. “With a minimalist shape and sturdy walnut veneer, this table makes an ideal focal point, blending function with mid-century elegance in a way that grounds living spaces,” Jensen says.