1940s Interior Decorating

Bold floral textiles were typical of 1940s decor.

In terms of interior design, the 1940s was a two-part decade. During the war, new home interiors had muted color palettes and spare, modern furnishings. After the war, there was a resurgence in nostalgia for the past, and interiors were marked by floral patterns and mixed influences.

Influences

Interior design during WWII was spare and utilitarian. Decorating after the war was characterized by cheerful interiors with multiple influences, including Art Deco, modern and English revival. People didn't have a lot of money, so they used a mix of furnishings and accents. The mixed style was the beginning of what's now called the "vintage" period.

Secondary Colors

The secondary colors, including orange, green and violet, were recommended by designers and used in many homes during the 1940s. It was not uncommon to have purple carpeting and matching green draperies and armchairs; lavender walls and emerald green carpeting was another common combination. Colors were saturated but not overly bright: salmon pink with baby blue, dark cherry red with white.

Floral Prints

Floral prints were a common 1940s theme, whether homes were more modern, traditional or eclectic in overall style. Living room curtains, especially, highlighted the trend. If the floral print wasn't bold, then the background color of the fabric usually contrasted the room's wall color. Wallpaper also showcased floral prints and was often used in bedrooms.

References

• "Style Traditions: Recreating Period Interiors"; Stephen Calloway; 1990