The style lessons we'll take from this Mid-century Georgia home complete with a Slim Aarons-inspired pool

A masterclass in Mid-century glamour, this fabulous home has been restored to its former glory

Mid-century home in Georgia
(Image credit: Gary Gomez for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty)

It's Georgia on our mind with this outstanding example of Mid-century modern design. The house, built by Architect Thomas E. Garner, has been reimagined as a glamorous retreat – it even includes a pool inspired by Slim Aarons' sultry images of poolside fun.

You can safely use this meticulous restoration project as a rulebook for Mid-century modern ideas. From furniture to wall art and from lighting to layouts, this is an impeccable testament to one of the finest eras in interior design. Here are the top style lessons we'll take from it. 

1. Embrace yellow accents

Mid-century home in Georgia

(Image credit: Gary Gomez for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty)

Yellow and orange are quintessential Mid-century colors, bold and optimistic, and looking towards the bright future, as all of Mid-century design was. In a contemporary home, full-on yellow living room ideas may be a bit overwhelming, so take inspiration from the subtle bright yellow accents used in the Georgia home. The yellow accents by the pool add a splash of sunshine even on a cloudy day. We also really like the way the yellow headboard coordinates with the bedroom furniture. This gets as far from boring bedroom design as possible. 

Mid-century home in Georgia

(Image credit: Gary Gomez for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty)

2. Explore the full potential of brick and wood

Georgia house

(Image credit: Gary Gomez for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty)

The meticulous restoration of this original Mid-century home really showcases the era's infatuation with the deep, warm browns of natural materials such as wood and brick. The intricate brickwork around the fireplace prevents an overly industrial look, while the smooth wooden ceiling in the master bedroom creates an intimate and cozy feel in what could otherwise have felt like a chilly space.

Georgia house Sotheby's

(Image credit: Gary Gomez for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty)

3. There can never be too many sideboards

Georgia house, Sotheby's

(Image credit: Gary Gomez for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty)

It's difficult to imagine a piece of furniture that represents the Mid-century era so completely as the sideboard. Typically made from teak or finished in a warm stain to recreate the effect, the sideboard is the one element of Mid-century modern furniture that is a true must-have. This house has them aplenty – in living rooms, bedroom, and, of course, in the hallway, impeccably decorated with vases and sculptures from the same time period.

4. There's always room for neutrals

Georgia house, Sotheby's

(Image credit: Gary Gomez for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty)

If warm browns just aren't your thing, or you want a slightly more contemporary take on the Mid-century theme, this house proves that it's perfectly possible to stay true to this style while working with calm, light neutrals – and even grays. The trick to still getting that Mid-century modern look is to pick accessories carefully, especially wall art and lighting. 

Georgia house, Sotheby's

(Image credit: Gary Gomez for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty)

The Parkwood Road Decatur house is on sale for $1,600,000 by Sotheby's International Realty. 

Anna K. Cottrell
Freelance writer

Anna is a professional writer with many years' experience. She has special interests in architecture, photography, and high-end interior design. Her work has appeared in Homes & Gardens, Gardeningetc, and many other publications.