Interior Decorating in the 1950s

As the 1950s was a prosperous time for many families, home décor began to emphasize entertaining, leisure and comfort. Design was vibrant, and many families could now afford televisions and modern appliances.

Colors & Fabrics

Pastel colors such as pink, turquoise and mint green were popular colors in the '50s. Other popular colors were red, black, white, blue, orange, brown and grey. According to RetroPlanet.com, polka dots, stripes and checks were popular patterns for fabrics.

Kitchens

Typical 1950s kitchens had linoleum floors, vinyl chairs with chrome legs and Formica tables and counters. Families that could afford them had modern appliances such as mixers and double wall ovens. Some kitchens had wallpaper covering the walls and ceiling.

Living Rooms

Scandinavian furniture with clean lines was popular. Coffee tables were often boomerang or kidney shaped. Atomic motifs could be seen in wall décor and accessories.

Recreation Rooms

Recreation rooms were added to homes. Ping pong tables, folding bridge tables and chairs, cocktail bars and televisions in wood cabinets all contributed to this area for entertaining.

References

• HomeBaseDesign: 1950s Retro Furniture Styles
• RetroPlanet: 1950s Decorating Style