You’re probably more than familiar with the interior design styles of today, but what about the past? If you decorated your home during decades of the past, you might not remember the styles you loved at the time. Other readers may not have been born yet!
Keep reading to learn more about the key trends of the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s and see how they differ to the styles we know and love in today’s modern age.
The 1960s
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In the 1960s, those looking to redecorate their home would have been faced with an abundance of floral prints unusually designed furniture that was futuristic for the time and plenty of traditional paisley fabric.Unconventional designs were key and appealed to most, especially as the overall trend was to try to appear as hip and youthful as possible – even people who weren’t hip or youthful at all!
Comfort was casual but on trend, with colourful bean bags and pod chairs in many informal living rooms. Shag pile carpeting also became popular, making it easy and comfortable to walk around the home barefoot.Avocado Green was a key colour for kitchens and bathroom suits while living rooms and bedrooms featured the addition of wooden panelling for extra detail.
The 1970s
Moving into the 1970s, homes were often heavily influenced by the peaceful, nature-inspired vibes that had begun in the 60s and continued into the next decade.Colours used in most homes of the time were much more mellow, featuring earthier, natural tones such as brown, green and gold. Despite this fairly neutral palette, interiors were livened up with brightly coloured furniture and plenty of flowery décors.
House plants were another key trend, especially featured in pots or hangers throughout the interior.The wood panelling of the 60s remained popular, although geometric artwork was included to brighten up the walls. Wicker furniture was also a key element in living rooms.Wall to wall carpeting was often used throughout the home – even in bathrooms an
In the 1980s, several trends of the 60s came back around, such as the peak popularity of floral patterns and prints.Other popular designs were very feminine and ‘frilly’ such as canopy beds, bed linen and table cloths.Wall art was bold and oversized to make a statement. Wallpaper was favoured over paint and furniture often resembled some shape or design rather than sticking to the norm.
In kitchens and bathrooms, laminate flooring became more popular – moving away from the carpet trend of the 70s. Frosted glass also became fashionable throughout the home.There were many trends happening at once, so it was usual to choose a favourite and stick to it rather than trying to keep up with them all.
The 1990s
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The 1990s were a turning point for interior design. While the previous three decades had their similarities between them, the 90s began new trends and styles entirely.The design was stripped back – no more floral patterns or wallpaper designs. Interior were simple, in fact almost all of the previous trends were no longer relevant. The 90s was a time for minimalism in the home.Sofas and furniture were blocks coloured with no patterns while all the frills of the 80s were gone.
Kitchens became more focused on the gadgets that could be included rather than the style of the kitchen itself. Large sofas with comfy, cosy throw pillows were often the central point of the living room.To add a little colour to the stark makeover many homes received as the trends changed, accent walls became popular in bright and dark shades.The 90s are actually on trend right now in 2015 in both fashion, art and style, so it’s likely we’ll begin seeing many of the original styles of the 90s make a comeback as the trend for this memorable decade continues.
The 2000s
In the 2000s, the minimalist approach that had begun to develop during the 90s truly evolved and became an even more mainstream style of décor. Most homeowners and decorators aimed to create an interior space that was both clean and balanced while still eclectic and unique.People began to experiment, rather than follow a specific trend, leading to homes and interiors that were truly individual and comfortable to those who lived in them – regardless of whether others favoured the same elements.
The oversized sofas that soared in popularity in the 90s were replaced with more classic styles while large entertainment centres lost their appeal – only to be replaced by modern, low profile televisions.Designs that had peaked in the 60s and 70s were still used as people began to enjoy them for their ‘vintage’ aesthetic.
The Present
Today, new trends are appearing on the regular. However, it’s easy to see how many modern interior trends have been influenced by the design and décor styles of the past.Looking back, we may not like many of the trends. However, it’s worth looking at how they’ve shaped the way our homes look now.
While keeping up with changes in interior style can be fun, it’s worth taking a look at the true classics that will never go out of style.
What do you think of the trends of the past decades? Which is your favourite era? Would you consider using any retro designs in your own home? Share your thoughts below – we’d love to hear your ideas!
