1960s Interior Design: 10 Unmissable Features of a 1960s Home
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The 1960s were a time of change and upheaval, with new trends and styles emerging in every aspect of society. This was also true for interior design, which saw a shift away from traditional looks toward more modern schemes. If you're looking to inject a little 60s style into your home, here are 10 features to help you get started!
What were the 1960s like?
The 1960s were a time of great change. In many ways, it was the beginning of the modern era. For the first time, people had access to a wide range of new technologies, including televisions, computers, and automobiles. This led to a boom in the economy, and many people enjoyed a higher standard of living than ever before. However, the 1960s were also a time of social turmoil. The Civil Rights Movement was in full swing, and there was a lot of tension between different groups of people. The Vietnam War also divided the nation. Overall, the 1960s were a time of great progress and great upheaval.
In interior design, the 1960s were a time of great change. For the first time, people were beginning to experiment with entirely new styles and looks. This was partly due to the influence of pop culture. Films, TV shows, and music were all starting to have a big impact on fashion and design. And, of course, the 1960s were also the time of the “hippie” movement, which had a big impact on fashion and design.
10 Features of a 1960s Home
1. Bright primary colours
In the early days of the 20th century, interior design was heavily influenced by Victorian aesthetics. Homes were filled with dark, heavy furniture and colours were muted and dreary. However, by the 1960s, the taste had shifted towards a more light-hearted approach. Colour was used more liberally, with bright primary colours being especially popular. This change was reflective of the overall mood of the times, which was one of optimism and hope for the future. Today, many people look back fondly on this period in design history, and homeowners often incorporate retro touches into their homes as a way of paying tribute to the past.
2. Organic shapes across furniture, art and home accessories
The 1960s were a time of experimentation in many areas, including design. One trend that emerged during this period was the use of organic shapes in furniture, art and home accessories. Curves and soft lines replaced the sharp angles and straight lines that were popular in previous decades. This new style was inspired by nature, and it gave designers a way to express their creativity.
As a result, organic shapes became a defining feature of 1960s design. Today, these pieces are highly sought-after by collectors and interior designers who want to create a retro-chic look in their homes. With their unique shapes and vibrant colours, they are sure to add a touch of personality to any space.
3. Be bold with leopard print upholstery
Leopard print upholstery can add bags of character to any home. In the 1960s, it was all the rage, and many people incorporated it into their décor. Today, leopard print is making a comeback, and it can be a great way to add a bit of personality to your home. Whether you use it on a sofa, chair, or ottoman, leopard print upholstery can help you create a one-of-a-kind look for your home. So if you're looking for a way to make a bold statement, consider using leopard print upholstery in your next design project.
4. Mid-century modern furniture
Mid-century modern furniture is a type of furniture that was popular in the middle of the 20th century. It is characterised by its simplicity and functionality. Mid-century modern furniture was designed to be comfortable and stylish, while also being affordable. The style became popular in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s when many people were looking for an alternative to traditional, formal furniture. Mid-century modern furniture is still popular today, and many people consider it to be timeless. Whether you are looking for a new dining room set or a coffee table for your living room, mid-century modern furniture is a great option.
5. Use natural fibres and textures
The 1960s was a time of big changes, and that included a shift in home décor. Rattan became a popular material for furniture and accents, thanks to its natural texture and earthy aesthetic. Rattan is a type of palm that grows in tropical regions, and it has been used for centuries to make everything from baskets to furniture. Rattan is strong and durable, yet lightweight, making it ideal for use in the home. In the 1960s, rattan was often paired with other natural materials, such as wood and stone, to create a unique look. Today, rattan is still a popular material for home décor, and it can be used to add a touch of vintage style to any space.
6. Bring back macrame plant hangers and wall hanging
In the 1960s, macrame was all the rage. Homeowners used it to create everything from wall hangings to plant hangers. Today, macrame is making a comeback as people feeling nostalgic for the bohemian style of the 60s look for ways to add a touch of retro flair to their homes.
Whether you want to recreate the groovy vibe of the 60s or simply add a unique accent to your décor, macrame is the perfect way to do it. Best of all, it's easy to learn and relatively inexpensive. So if you're looking for a fun project that will give your home some retro flair, grab some yarn and get started on a macrame wall hanging or plant hanger today.
7. Save space for houseplants
The 1960s were a decade of change, and that extended to home design, leaving more room for things like houseplants. In the past, homes were designed with lots of small, decorative items crammed into every nook and cranny. However, the 1960s ushered in a new era of minimalism, and that was reflected in home décor as well.
Suddenly, it was trendy to have large, empty spaces in your home, and that made houseplants the perfect accessory. Not only did they help to fill up space, but they also added a touch of life and colour to otherwise sterile rooms. As a result, houseplants became one of the most popular trends of the 1960s, and they continue to be popular to this day.
8. Revive a retro stone fireplace
A stone fireplace can add instant charm to any room, and reviving a retro stone fireplace is a great way to give your home a 1960s-inspired makeover. If you're lucky enough to have a stone wall in your home, simply cleaning it and adding a new coat of paint will instantly transform the look of the room. To achieve a more authentic 1960s look, consider painting the stone in a bright, bold colour. For added impact, add a mantelpiece and some retro accessories. With a few simple changes, you can easily give your home a blast from the past.
9. Keep it cool with a mushroom lamp
The 1960s was a time of change and new ideas, and that extends to home design as well. One popular trend was the use of mushroom lamps, which were said to add a touch of whimsy and fun to any room. Mushroom lamps were made from moulded plastic and often had colourful shades, making them eye-catching and unique. They were also relatively inexpensive, which made them appealing to many people. While mushroom lamps fell out of fashion in the 1970s, they have recently made a comeback as retro home décor items. So if you’re looking for a way to add some funky style to your home, consider investing in a mushroom lamp.
10. Go big with shag rugs
In the 1960s, homeowners began to experiment with different ways to add comfort and style to their homes. One popular trend was the shag rug. Shag rugs were made of thick, closely spaced piles of wool or synthetic fibres, and they came in a variety of colours and patterns. The deep pile made them ideal for sink-in comfort, and they added texture to the space.
However, shag rugs were not just for looks; they also had a practical side. The thick piles helped to trap dirt and dust, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like entryways and living rooms. Over time, shag rugs fell out of fashion, but they have experienced a resurgence in recent years. Thanks to their retro glamour and practical benefits, shag rugs are once again a popular choice for floor coverings.
Conclusion
The 1960s interior design style is making a comeback and for good reason. This unique look provides a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere that is perfect for today’s busy lifestyle. If you are thinking of updating your home décor, consider giving the 1960s style a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Intrigued by retro interiors? Read more about the history of interior design through the 18th, 19th & 20th centuries:
Interior Design Through the Ages: The History of Homes
Georgian Interior Design: 10 Steps to a Gorgeous Georgian Home