When it comes to decorating the interior of a home, everybody has their own unique preference for a certain style and, often, a certain decade, depending on their taste. Like floral print? The 80s interior design might be calling your name. Or perhaps you like clean, simple lines and lots of space. The 60’s postmodern design might be more your style.
Below, I break down interior design through the decades to give you a sense for not only the interior climate of that time but also inspiration as you start decorating the interior of your own home!
1920s — Art Deco
“Art Deco” is short for "art décoratif" and is bold in color and luxurious, with sharp geometric shapes and lines. During this period, 1920s interior design was inspired by lavish architecture like the Rockefeller Center in New York City and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.”
1930s-40s — Modernist
Whereas 1920’s interior design was sharp and bold, modernist design in the 30s and 40s was simple and clean. Often referred to now as “vintage,” the modernist period in interior design focused more on comfort and a family atmosphere. Grays, blacks, and oranges were among the most popular colors of these two decades.
1950s — Mid-Century Modern
By the 1950s, people were starting to make more money and grow their families. There is now a lot more furniture in the home, as well as more appliances like televisions. Unexpected colors such as blue and green make their way into the home, and minimal lines in the shapes of the chairs are all the rage.
Source: Art Nectar
1960s — Postmodern
Like the climate of the time, people are starting to explore more culturally and politically. This shows up in the design of homes as people begin to blend modern style with “the new,” implementing Japanese design and capitalizing on negative space. Groovy colors like red, yellow, and blue are what give this decade a new modernist touch.
Source: Love to Know
1970s—Self-Expression
Colors in the home during the 70s took a turn for the outdoors—dark reds, mustard yellows, and dark greens are among the many earthy tones that make an appearance in the furniture, cabinets, and even the tile on the kitchen floor! The furniture, as well, had an environmentally friendly twist, as much of it was made of natural elements like wicker.
1980s — The New Modern
The 80s invite comfy armchairs with floral prints and patterns galore! Window drapery is bold in size, and the dining room tables are all glass. Beige mixed with pastel pinks are some of the colors you’d find in “The New Modern.”
1990s — Individualist
It’s as if those in the 90s decided it was time to take the last 8 decades and mix them all into one, bringing their own individual interpretation of art deco, minimal, and modern into one. Primary colors were big in the 90s, and accessorizing with the color of the walls was a thing. Pine and metal was also major elements in the furniture.
21st century—Eclecticism
While the 21st century is still being defined, many point to this decade as eclectic, or diverse in style and theme. Neutral colors and minimal lines are in the light fixtures as well as in the furniture around the home. Big open space is key while keeping the interior of the home clean yet functional.
Source: Mecc Interior Inc.
There you have it — interior design through the decades! Which decade’s design speaks to you the most? Feel free to contact me today, and we can discuss more home & living tips and advice like this and more!
