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The decade of the 1960s is probably one of the monumental turns in the history of mankind. A period that is filled with surprises and accomplishments. Many would describe the decade to be psychedelic, idealistic, euphoric, and transformative. Colors tend to be a little exaggerated when it comes to fashion and design. People then lack inhibitions in terms of expressing themselves. 

It is a decade where there are also been changes in design styles. They focus more on towering style with mixtures from different influences. Interior design styles highlight decorative items that boost visual impact regardless of the rules in interior design. 

A brief history of the 1960s design style 

The decade is one of the dynamic eras in the history of mankind. There are different events that occurred during the decade that made differences to the culture and tradition of many countries. Peace and war are on the brink that can make or break a nation. The west is bombarded with civil protests, the Vietnam War, assassinations of John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, The Cuban Missile Crisis, and the landing of the first man on the moon.  

The 60s is more about flower power, pop music, and patriotism. Anything groovy can be observed in almost all places. It has also plundered the past for inspiration for the spirit of rebellion. These events have greatly influenced the design industry as there are mixtures of ideas to come up with interesting and compelling designs. 

Interior design styles were considered to be a ragbag of designs. The ideas and designs of Andy Warhol and David Hockney are gaining popularity as people see the uniqueness in the appearances of murals and posters. The designs represent the mass culture as represented in comic strips and the iconic Marilyn Monroe designs. 

Design ideas of the 1960s

The events during the decade have greatly influenced the design industry. There are many creative and artistic ways to successfully achieve a 1960s look in your home. Walk down memory lane and try these ideas in your home.

The use of bean bags

Relax and have fun with your family and friends by placing a mattress, cushions, and bean bags. Not only are these items functional, they can also add life to your rooms and make them look more lively and dynamic. 

Allow the free flow of air

An open floor plan allows the wind to circulate freely. This is also true with the entry of natural light. These can be achieved with the addition of sliding doors and movable screens. These structures can also create partitions that can be functional and appealing. 

Plastic furniture

The material that is common during the decade is plastic. Plastics are used to manufacture almost any item during the decade. Display furniture made of the said material and the recommended design to achieve the 60s look is futuristic and space age. 

Fabric

Fabric designs should have repeating patterns or with the graphic images of pop art.

Light source

This is the decade of lava lamps, neon lights, and Moroccan-inspired lamps. These items can illuminate your space in a unique and fashionable way. 

Pinewood

Though wood is not that popular during the decade, the use of pine wood has gained its popularity. They are commonly seen as wall paneling ceiling beams. 

Color scheme

The use of vibrant colors, such as red and purple will take you back in time. These are the colors that make the decade psychedelic and groovy. In addition to these, the use of black and white colors can balance everything, especially in the bedroom and living room. 

Classic, soft, and timeless. These are the best words to describe the interior design style. Shabby chic is one of the most popular design styles these days. Many find it stylish, elegant, and romantic. It started in the 1980s in the United Kingdom and was conceptualized by the British designer, Rachell Ashwell.

Achieving the design style in your home is quite easy and affordable. Time to bring out old and unused items and furniture pieces. With a little imagination and creativity, you can transform your home into something marvelous. Read on to learn more about the design style and how you can achieve it in your home. 

Features of Shabby Chic interior design style

There are similarities between shabby chic and other vintage-styled design styles, such as the French Country Interior Design. Shabby chic is actually a vintage style but with a twist to give it a modern appeal. 

The vintage or classic look of the design style is due to the use of furnishings with signs of wear and distress. Fabrics are commonly made of cotton and old French linen. It is also common to see colors such as white and pastels to have a room that appears soft and bright.

The rooms also look romantic with the presence of pillows in vintage fabric, linens, chandeliers, and other items that have a rose design. Many likewise consider the design style to be eclectic with a touch of feminine and romance. 

Why love the style?

There are many ways to illustrate and define shabby chic. What makes it unique and interesting is the experience that you will encounter. It is a design style where the old furniture pieces and furnishings become the highlight of your home. 

Shabby chic was initially used in the 80s by the British designer, Rachel Ashwell. She brought it to the United States where it gained popularity. The design style was inspired by the large country houses and other vintage designs. Especially with the use of old and worn furniture pieces, curtains, paintings, and others. 

These days, the use of recycled, upcycled, and repurposed items are common with the design style. It also makes use of colors that make any home look elegant and luxurious. 

Achieving the design style is not that complicated. There are no strict rules to follow. Check out your old decorative items and furniture pieces and use them. See if you can recycle, upcycle, or repurpose some items. You can also visit antique shops or garage sales to get some items that will complete the design style. Who says that you have to spend more to have an elegant and luxurious interior?

Tips to achieve the style

Here are some tips that you can use to achieve the design style:

1. Timeworn furniture pieces
2. Cotton and old French fabric
3. Pillows of vintage fabric
4. Vintage chandeliers
5. Use of white and pastels
6. Flowers around the house
7. Distressed wood
8. Hand-painted cabinets
9. Mirrors
10. Wrought iron furniture

Complex yet stylish interior design style. This is probably the best way to describe the interior design style of the 1980s. It is called modern retro as different elements from the past and present can be seen inside a home. With the addition of design elements and the use of your imagination, you will be able to create a home that is chic and timeless. 

The modern retro interior design style

The 1980s design style is not a plain and simple style. In fact, it consists of different elements that make it a little bit complex. It is common to see metallic accents, angles, and curves inside a home with the design style. What makes the style even more interesting is the fact that it can easily be incorporated into the designs we have today. The modern retro design style is mainly composed of bright colors, a flat design, and numerous geometric figures.

Characteristics of the modern retro interior design style

The design style has the appearance of what many say, “less is more”. It encompasses the minimalist approach that features clean-lined furniture pieces. The glossy and reflective appearance of the surface is achieved with the use of mirrors, chrome, and glass. These are remarkable items as they can make any room look visually larger. In addition to these, gray and white are common on the walls so that other colors can easily blend with them. 

A brief history of the 1980s modern retro design style

The 1980s is remembered for its socioeconomic change that is due to technological advancement. It is also a period of moving away from the planned economy and shifting towards laissez-faire capitalism. This boom in the global economy is greatly influenced by the United States. As such, there is an increase in job opportunities and economic expansion, especially in the West. 

Many companies likewise relocated to different countries, particularly to Asia. Examples are Thailand, Mexico, South Korea, China, and Japan. As a result, these countries experienced growth in employment and economy. The developing countries, on the other hand, are experiencing financial crises and an increase of debt from the International Bank and the World Bank are observed. 

The AIDS epidemic was recognized during the decade as well as global warming started to become a problem. 

Popular modern retro design style ideas

Here are some inspirations that you may want for your home:

Pastel colors

Soft pastels were common during the 80s. With the application of white in generous amounts, the soft pastel colors will be intensified. 

Country style

This refers to the aesthetics that represent the rural farmhouse-like design. The design style gained its fame because of its simplicity. Pastel and bright colors blend perfectly with the country design style. It is also common to see natural elements such as wood, rocks, and others. 

Open kitchen

The open kitchen aims to avoid the isolation of the person who is in the room. It also provides a continuous flow between rooms. 

Shabby chic design

White and antique in appearance coupled with sofas covered with quilted comforters and simple grommets. 

Zen-inspired design style

This design style is known for its simplicity and spiritual appearance with the use of elements such as pebbles arranged neatly in certain areas. 

The modern design style is the trend these days when it comes to styling your home. In fact, many public spaces and establishments prefer the design style over the others. It features clean lines and simplicity which are greatly influenced by the modern art movement of home interior. Moreover, there are no limitations to modern design style. It encompasses a lot of different embodiments.

The characteristics of modern design style

Modern design style has its strong influences from the modern art movement. In the field of art, modernism began with impressionists and abstraction. Art Deco also has strong influences on the design style and it gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. This is why the design style is often called mid century design. 

Shapes as a key element of modern design style

Shapes are one of the key elements in modern design style. It uses geometric shapes such as rigid squares and rectangles with smooth curves. In addition to these, circles and ovals add life to any room. The design style is also modest when it comes to the use of ornaments. Excessive use of ornaments is believed to interrupt the flat surface and clean lines. 

Preferred materials of the design style

When it comes to the materials often used and seen, wood and plastic are the best choices. Although other materials may be used, wood and plastic are the primary choices. Wood is usually painted with an opaque finish to cover the natural grain. Shiny or glossy metals boost the identity of the design style. Stainless steel, for instance, is common in the legs of chairs and the body of lamps. Plastics are often used for smoother and even surfaces. 

Modern design style – its development

Modern design style started its popularity during the World War 2 era. It has its influences on the decorative arts in the early 20th century, especially with the Art Deco period. The rise of new concepts and materials have contributed a lot to the development of modern design style. 

The 1940s

With different inspirations, the design style used a combination of different styles during the 1940s. Examples are Art Deco and Jazz where homes are usually seen with sunny, sentimental, and patriotic accents. The decorative items used are lighter and more affordable. Furniture pieces are simple and linear with the use of materials such as wood and chrome. Carpet, ruffled draperies, floral textiles, and colored tiles are also common.

Consumerism in the 1950s

During the 1950s, consumerism increased. As a result, the demand for decorative items and materials is also increasing. Mass production of different materials such as fabric, furniture pieces, and other decorative items was boosted to make them more affordable for the middle class. The design style focused on simplicity and functionality. The kitchen is considered to be the most important room during this period. 

More relaxed design during the 1960s

Colors and patterns eventually changed during the 1960s. These elements became loud and furniture pieces became less formal and more relaxed. The 1970s relied mostly on earth-colored tones. Hand-crafted furnishings also gained popularity during this decade. 

The new wave in the 80s

As the economy was booming in the 1980s, so was the demand to make bigger houses. Furniture pieces also need to be larger to make them proportionate with the houses built. Many homes tend to grab attention due to the extreme colors used. 

Functionality and style in the 90s

Modern design style eventually toned down during the 1990s. Furnishings are sleeker and more refined. Walk-in closets, kitchen islands, and home entertainment rooms are common. These are results of the emphasis on functionality and style. 

The 21st century

The 21st century focused more on functionality. The design style is not that loud as compared with the other decades. Modern design style during this decade has the combination of modern and eclectic elements with influences from the previous decades. 

The fifth wall is a part of the house that is often disregarded when decorating your home. In many instances, it is painted with plain color so that it could easily blend with the other parts of the room. This is the ceiling as we commonly call it. Read on to learn more about the fifth wall and how to make it look more attractive to complete your home decorating project. 

What is the fifth wall?

The fifth wall or the ceiling is defined as an overhead interior surface that provides cover for the upper limits of the room. Many designers and homeowners consider the fifth wall as a finished surface and not as a structural element. In fact, the ceiling can have various functions in your home. 

There are different types of fifth wall or ceiling. The most common is the dropped ceiling that is suspended from the structural elements above like pipeworks and ducts. The other types of ceiling existing are the concave ceiling, stretched ceiling, coffered ceiling, and cathedral ceiling. 

Just like in the past, the fifth wall is often decorated with various decorative elements and items. Examples are fresco painting, tiles, and suspended lighting systems. Since these items are from the reach of humans, they are far from being damaged. Although cleaning may be a problem thus dust has a high chance of accumulating. 

Decorating the fifth wall

Though it is common to see simple and plain-looking fifth walls, they still need to be given appropriate decorations to make it look more appealing and to add a theme to the house. The goal for designing and decorating the fifth wall is to draw the eye up into space. Thus, this would result in fully appreciating the overall appearance of the room. 

During the 16th to the 18th centuries, the ceiling was the focal point of any space. A good example is the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. The ceiling was painted by Michelangelo as directed by Pope Julius II in 1508. Michelangelo was a renowned master whose works include Pieta and David. It took Michelangelo from 1508 to 1512 to finish his painting on the Sistine Chapel ceiling. The painting focused more on the stories of the Old Testament in the Bible like the Creation,  and Noah and the Flood.

How to decorate the fifth wall

It might be hard to believe, but decorating the fifth wall in your home will make your home look truly captivating. The idea is never to leave the ceiling untreated. Here are some decorating ideas that will transform the appearance of your ceiling. 

Black paint

Painting the ceiling black adds mystery and glamour to your home. If applied to the ceiling of the bathroom, it can have a modern appeal that will make it look fun and dynamic. 

Add texture

The use of different materials can easily add texture to the ceiling. An example is a wooden slat that can create a modern and warm vibe. The presence of wood can also add a rustic touch to your home. 

Beams 

Exposed beams that are installed on the ceiling can add style to your home. The beams can also be the highlight of your room if they are painted with bright colors. 

Gray paint

The color gray may appear dull and gloomy. However, paint the ceiling gray as well as one section of the wall. This will create a coherence between the wall and the ceiling. As such the eye will have a larger area to look at. 

Art on the ceiling

It may be hard to fathom, but the display of modern art on the ceiling can make the fifth wall the focal point of your room. Display art of the sky, stars, zodiac or other heavenly bodies and have the impression of having a space-themed room. The art of superheroes and comic characters can also make the room look modern. 

Having your own place is one of the most exciting things to have. Especially if you are living in the city and just got your new apartment close to where you work. Of course, having your own apartment is a package deal that requires your attention. The package includes cleaning and disinfecting the space, buying new furniture, appliances, and decorative items. After cleaning and placing the furniture pieces in their respective places, you observed that the room still appears dull and boring due to those big blank walls. 

Blank walls can be a pain in the head, especially if you do not have the resources, such as time and money. However, it does not have to be that way. There are many ways to accessorize your walls with various decorative items. There is no need to break the bank as there are also affordable means to decorate your rooms.

Color Swatch Gallery Wall

Print any color of your choice on a piece of paper then frame them in a grid. The size of the color should be large enough to be seen from afar. This is best when placed in the kids’ room or in the craft room.

Oversized photo

Blow up your own photo, preferably in black and white to have that classic and elegant appearance. Hang it on a wall to create a meaningful yet affordable piece of art.

Bikes on the wall

Who says bikes are only for riding. Contemporary wood mounts are hip and can hold your amazing bikes when not in use. A unique style of decorating your walls with unusual accessories.

Wall calendars

Look for oversized calendars from shops and hang them on the wall. This is ideal in the office or family kitchen.

Green chalkboards

Chalkboards are not for teaching only. This can provide a classic vibe that cannot be provided by other decorative wall accessories. Write something on it or draw a picture, this item can be versatile as you can change what’s written every time you feel like it.

Go green with planters

This is an affordable way to spice up your walls. Use low-maintenance succulents in wall-mounted planters to enjoy the benefits of indoor plants.

Living wall 

A full-scale wall-mounted garden that brings life into your home. Just remember to choose a wall where they can be recognized and appreciated immediately.

Modern tapestries

Remember the tapestries found in castles during the Medieval Age? The same principle, however, with a twist. You may use a beaded wall hanging with an attractive design to accentuate the furniture pieces and other decorative items.

Wooden ledge

A functional design of the wall. The wooden ledge can be used to display different items such as framed photos, souvenirs, keepsakes, vases, and other decorative items. This is a good choice especially if you are the person who wants to change the appearance of your house from time to time. 

Wall mirrors

Hanging mirrors never goes out of style. Depending on the size of the room, you may hang a mirror in your room to give you a stylish appearance. In addition to that, the mirror can also reflect natural light and can create an illusion of having a larger room. 

Modernism can be defined in different ways, depending on the perspective of an individual. It can be described in a multicultural and multidisciplinary approach. Experts believe that modernism in interior design is a style or movement that has a sole goal. Modernism aims to deviate from the traditional or classical forms. It is also the application of theories and principles that enhance the needs and functions that homeowners require.

Modernism – its origin

Modernism in interior design style can be traced back to the 19th century. During that time, modernists were aimed at developing new standards that were applicable and appropriate to the environment. It has been observed that the appearances of various structures have significant changes since the Industrial Revolution. Modernism only started as a school of thought. As time goes on, it has influenced other disciplines, such as politics, religion, literature, art, architecture, and interior design. Modernism is also associated with Futurism, Bauhaus, Neo-Dada, Cubism, Minimalism, and Abstract Expressionism. 

In interior design, the style is considered to be multifaceted where it embraces a holistic approach rather than as a single style. Examples of the style include an open floor plan, stylish kitchen design, trendy color palette, multifunctional shelves, and others. 

The style in interior design

The interior design style has different characteristics that can also be observed in architecture and design. It focuses on functionality and simplicity. It devoids from excessive decorations and as such, is considered to be simple and plain. As such, the design style can evoke a calm and relaxing atmosphere. 

Modernism highlights functionality before beauty and form, minimal use of texture, and clean-lined design, open spaces to allow the entry of natural light. 

Clean straight lines

Modern design style focuses on straight lines with no other details seen in furniture pieces and room appearance. The lines are sharp and very spare and are evident on sanded wood floors, open floor plans, and few walls. There is also the absence of moldings, trimmings, windows, doors, and walls. 

Minimalism

Less is more. This is what can be observed with the principle of minimalism. The interior design need not have any other unnecessary details such as excessive fabric, columns, and space-consuming cabinets. Minimalism is more focused on the simplicity and functionality of the overall interior design. In addition to these, the absence of excessive items leads to a clutterless environment. 

Bold colors

Bold primary colors are usually observed in a modern home. This is to create a focal point that will capture the attention of the viewers. A bold color scheme balances the neutral colors that are common on walls. 

The use of metal

Metals like chrome and stainless steel are used to create a modern appearance. It also includes the use of wrought iron to create a unique and interesting room design. 

Final Thoughts

Modernism is one of the compelling interior design styles that is preferred by many homeowners and designers these days. The keywords are aesthetics and simplicity. This principle gives us the freedom and flexibility in choosing the materials and methods to successfully achieve the design style.

The Nordic design style is characterized by the use of natural materials and cool shades of pastel colors. This is a design style that is known to be closely similar to the Scandinavian interior design style. The only difference is that the Nordic design style has a slightly darker edge with the use of colors like blue, green, and gray. Add different textures and you will have a room that is comfy and spacious. 

Nordic design style – its origin

Nordic interior design style has its origin from the Scandinavian region. The style rose to popularity during the 19th century. This is the period when Arts and Crafts movement had influenced the interior design industry. Nordic design style became part of different design movements. 

During the 1920s, designers from the Scandinavian region incorporated the principles of Nordic design style to modernism. Though it took many years, it was in the 1950s when the Nordic design style was widely accepted. From 1954 to 1957, the design style was observed to participate in traveling exhibits in the United States and Canada. 

The characteristics of Nordic design style

The characteristics of Nordic design style have its great influence by the Scandinavians with a touch of German. It is a combination of natural and practical ideas that are observed from everyday objects. The design style features wood, plastic, anodized metal, pressed steel, and aluminum. 

Gray and white walls

The design style primarily features crisp, clean colors, such as hues of gray, white, and cream. The colors add beauty to any room and can make them appear clean. In addition to these, the materials make the furniture and other decorative items be the highlight of the room. 

Natural textiles and plants

Indoor plants are common with the design style. Experts also have suggested that the incorporation of plants gives benefits to the mind and body. In addition to these, the plants add attractive accents to your homes. Natural textiles like burlap, linen, and cotton are likewise recommended to further enhance the Nordic-inspired home. 

Minimalist kitchens

The design style is also known for its minimalist rooms. The kitchen, for instance, appears clear, solid-colored, and clutterless. The cabinets often appear flat, plain, and simple. The rooms are usually seen in white color. 

Dark grout lines

The use of dark grout lines can give any tile a touch of pop color. The bathroom and the kitchen can have an impressive look with dark grout lines. In addition to these, white tiles can give sterility and a clean look to the rooms. 

Fireplace

Add comfort and warmth to your room with the incorporation of a fireplace. This can create a visually comfortable interior with a clean and crisp appearance. As such, the fireplace can be the focal point of your home making it look more inviting and relaxing. 

Patterns and textures

Patterns and textures in Nordic design style are usually in a monochromatic style. As such, this can be an opportunity to add a color theme. Think of the monochromatic style as a blank canvas to paint your art. 

Contemporary room design is one of the favorite design styles of many homeowners these days. There are many reasons why it is on top of the list. From the furniture pieces up to the wall design, contemporary room design will surely capture your attention and interest. Read on to learn more about the design style of the century.

The contemporary design style in your room

For some time now, contemporary design style has been one of the best choices of people when designing their homes, offices, and public spaces. If simplicity and clean lines are your preferences, then this design style is the ideal interior design for you and your family. It may be hard to find the exact definition for the design style as it encompasses many embodiments. Contemporary design style has its origins that is traced from the modern art movement. 

Contemporary design style characteristics

The design style makes use of shapes as one of the key elements. It uses geometric shapes, such as squares, rectangles with smooth curves, circles, and ovals. In general, it highlights simplicity with the use of few ornaments. The ornaments used though are believed to interrupt the even unbroken lines and flat surfaces. 

Contemporary design style also uses different materials and the most preferred are wood and plastic. Wood is usually painted with an opaque finish that covers the natural wood grain. Shiny and glossy metals are also added to highlight the contemporary design style. For instance, chair legs and body of lamps are usually made from stainless steel. In addition to these, glass and plastic are used to smoothen surfaces. 

Its origin and evolution

Contemporary design style can be traced back during the World War 2 era. It has influences from the decorative arts in the early 20th century particularly during the Art Deco period. The rise of fresh concepts and modern materials like plastics also contributed to the development of the design style. 

The 1940s

In the 1940s, the design style was observed to have the combination of different styles, such as Art Deco and Jazz, with the sunny, sentimental, and patriotic accents. During this period, the decorative items were lighter and more affordable. These are then appropriate to the growing population. Furniture pieces appear simple and linear with the combination of wood and chrome. 

The 1950s

The 1950s was observed to have a rise in the number of consumers. As such the demand for decorative items and other products also increased. As a result, there was a growth in the mass production of materials such as fabric and home furnishings. This mass production has made the materials more affordable for the general public. The design style during this period focused more on simplicity and functionality. 

Vintage period

During the 1960s, there was a change in interior design style. Colors and patterns became more conspicuous and the appearance and style of furnishings became more relaxed. The 1970s, on the other hand, depended on earth tone colors. Moreover, hand-crafted furnishings were highlighted. 

The psychedelic era

The 80s, however, are completely different. The economy is getting better, inspiring homeowners to build bigger houses. As such, furniture pieces and other decorative items also became larger. The use of bold colors is commonly seen and this is the reason why the 80s is called the psychedelic era. 

The 90s

The 1990s toned down as compared to the previous decade. Furnishings were sleeker and more refined. It is also common to see walk-in closets, kitchen islands, and home entertainment rooms. As such, the design style during the decade emphasized on functionality of the style. 

The design style these days

During the 21st century, functionality is still the highlight. Though, styles were improved to make them look more sophisticated. The design style has the combination of modern and eclectic elements with the addition of elements from the previous decade. 

Contemporary design style has an open floor plan, the presence of primary colors, minimal design, and built-in cabinets and shelves.