Retro Home Decor
1950's

Retro home decor from the fifties reflects the post World War 2 boom which brought about global mass change. It was the age of the consumer.

Radical free thinkers influenced change that shaped the modern world and design was celebrated. Retro home decor from this decade is based on classic design principles therefore still looks stylish today.

The modern interpretation of a 50's living room shown below is a great example.

Get the 50's look:

To get a good insight into the look of the 1950's interior design styles, I recommend to watch an episode of the hit t.v. show 'Mad Men'. The series is centered around the advertising industry in the 60's however, the set and style portrays the 50's beautifully.

You could also refer to the sets seen in the likes of Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn movies. Also check out the work by Charles and Ray Eames, the legendary husband and wife team. Their furniture is still very much in high demand.

The above left image is shows the 'Ottoman' chair, top right is the 'RAR Rocking' chair, next to that, top middle is the 'La Chaise' and bottom right shows the 'DSW' chair.

The retro style chairs are examples from the Eames collection. For more info on furniture and seating click here: furniture The 1950's was the introduction of open plan living which meant that one large space became multifunctional, combining a kitchen, living room and dining area. Therefore to really capture this ear, try to make your home as open plan as is possible.

It may be possible for you to consider knocking a wall down to create a better functional home. Make sure you consult with an architect or a structural engineer prior to any renovations to discuss the practical solutions. For example, if your wall is not load bearing and can be removed, it will allow you to maximize your space.

Color: it is possible for your color palette to be built around the 'American diner' theme and introduce what is called 'bubblegum colors' and neon. Bright and bold.

The second option is to be more conservative and style your retro home decor around muted color tones. That would be beige, mushroom, dark brown, olive green, emerald, plum, mustard, navy and black.

The below images are colorful examples of how to use subtle color to create inspired 1950's interior design.

Floor: vinyl flooring was all the rage in the 50's however, in the interest of advising you well, I suggest that elements of this era are better than a full homage.

Therefore carpet or timber flooring with big rugs are better options.

Walls: wallpaper would look great on perhaps just one walls to give you a 'wow' in your room. Stick to big patterns.

Be sure to get all your ideas onto your mood board so you can analyze your design ideas and your mood board will also help you to make any necessary changes which are better resolved at this stage rather than later on.

To return to the CONCEPT section click here: leave Retro Home Decor.