C&G’s Guide: Designing your Home Using Decade Trends

Looking to makeover your home in the new year? How about using iconic trends from the past to influence your designs? In this C&G blog, we list the most popular home trends from each decade!

1950s

Neutral colours paired with sleek lines and natural materials create the mid-century modern aesthetic. Wood panelling was also quite popular during this decade, as it was visually warm and added depth to all types of rooms.

1960s

If you love bold colour combinations and making a statement, this is the decade for you! Think pop art, Andy Warhol and modular furniture. The decade saw plenty of political movements, leading to expressive use of patterns, geometric shapes and statement furniture. Retro accessories such as record players and drink trolleys populated most homes.

1970s

Following in the footsteps of the ‘radical 60s,’ the 1970s trends really embraced the concept of ‘groovy.’ Think lava lamps, fringe and chunky alarm clocks! Bright colours, in particular mustard yellow, were very popular in home interiors. Wallpaper prints, patterned couches, shag carpeting and the iconic linoleum floors also gained popularity during this decade.

1980s

There was a lot of emphasis on texture, especially on armchairs and bedskirts. Dusty blue was a popular colour choice, paired with peach, rose and mauve. Thanks to television shows like Miami Vice, glass blocks were also widely used, as they could accent walls and divide rooms without blocking sunlight.

1990s

Nothing encapsulates the 90s better than the Friends apartment! Think knotted pine, florals and saturated colour. There was a return to basics and newfound focus on creating a homely space, which included brass fixtures and the white kitchens we are familiar with today.