1960'S Living Room Decor

Living Room Decor in the 1960s: A Swinging Era of Style

The 1960s was a decade of profound change, a time when social norms were challenged, and a new sense of freedom and individuality emerged. This cultural shift was reflected in the design world, and the living room, the heart of the home, became a canvas for expressing this newfound spirit. 1960s living room decor, a bold and vibrant departure from the more traditional styles of the past, embraced a mix of modernism, eclecticism, and a touch of whimsy.

Modernism and the Rise of Mid-Century Modern

One of the defining features of 1960s living room decor was the influence of Mid-Century modernism. This design movement, which originated in the 1940s, emphasized clean lines, simple forms, and functionality. Furniture pieces were often made of natural materials like wood and leather, with a focus on craftsmanship and quality. Iconic mid-century designs like the Eames Lounge Chair, the Barcelona chair, and the Saarinen Tulip table found their way into many 1960s homes, adding a sophisticated and timeless touch to the living room.

Beyond furniture, modernism also influenced other aspects of living room design. Geometric patterns and bold colors were often used in upholstery fabrics, rugs, and wall art. For instance, abstract prints by artists like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko became popular choices for decorating walls, adding a touch of artistic flair to the space.

Eclecticism and the Fusion of Styles

While modernism provided a foundation, 1960s living rooms were not confined to a single style. Eclecticism was embraced, with homeowners mixing and matching different elements and adding their own personal touch. For example, a modern sofa might be paired with a vintage armchair or a traditional fireplace mantel. This fusion of styles created a unique and dynamic aesthetic, reflecting the individual personality of the homeowner.

The eclecticism of 1960s living rooms extended to the use of accessories. Bold sculptures, ethnic art pieces, and souvenirs from travels were often incorporated into the decor, adding a layer of personality and global influence. The idea was to create a space that felt personal and collected, rather than sterile and cookie-cutter.

Bohemian and Psychedelic Influences

As the decade progressed, the influence of the counterculture movement became increasingly visible in living room decor. Bohemian and psychedelic elements, reflecting the spirit of rebellion and experimentation, added a touch of whimsy and unconventionality to the space.

Macrame wall hangings, woven rugs, and colorful throws were popular choices for adding a bohemian touch. Psychedelic patterns, influenced by the counterculture movement and the emerging drug culture, also made their way into living rooms. Geometric shapes, swirling patterns, and vibrant colors were incorporated into upholstery fabrics, rugs, and artwork, creating a visually stimulating and energetic atmosphere.

Key Elements of 1960s Living Room Decor

Here are some of the key elements that characterized 1960s living room decor:

Mid-Century Modern Furniture: Iconic designs like the Eames Lounge Chair, the Barcelona chair, and the Saarinen Tulip table, known for their clean lines, simple forms, and functionality.
Geometric Patterns and Bold Colors: Abstract prints by artists like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko were popular choices for wall art. Geometric patterns and vibrant colors were also used in upholstery fabrics, rugs, and accessories.
Eclectic Mix of Styles: Combining modern furniture with vintage pieces, traditional elements, and ethnic accents to create a unique and personal look.
Open Floor Plan: Many 1960s homes featured open floor plans, which created a sense of spaciousness and flow. The living room often flowed seamlessly into the dining room or kitchen.
Natural Materials: Wood, leather, and wool were common choices for furniture and upholstery, adding a warm and organic touch to the space.
Bohemian and Psychedelic Influences: Macrame wall hangings, woven rugs, and colorful throws added a bohemian touch, while geometric shapes, swirling patterns, and vibrant colors incorporated a psychedelic vibe.

The 1960s living room was a reflection of the decade's spirit of change, experimentation, and individuality. It combined the elegance of modernism with the eclecticism of bohemian and psychedelic influences, creating a space that was both stylish and personal. From the iconic furniture to the bold colors and patterns, 1960s living room decor continues to inspire designers and homeowners today, offering a timeless reminder of a decade that embraced a new era of style and self-expression.