The 1960s were a time of change. Starting out slow and demure and ending with a whole new look. The turmoil of civil rights, the Vietnam war, and a new awakening changed not only culture and politics but how we lived. From the buttoned-up 50s to the outspoken youth of the 60s we changed everything.
Orange, yellow, pink, and purple were attention-getting colors that could be found throughout the home from the bedroom to the bath, living room, and kitchen. These colors were saturated, not soft and understated.
Our homes became more colorful, our patterns bolder, and even our floorplans changed. Open rooms, delineated by sunken seating areas and split levels that allowed you to see from room to room were punctuated by bright colors and bold patterns. Living rooms became more formal and were reserved for entertaining company while the family lounged around the TV in the den.
Shag carpet, textured walls, sink-in sofas, and recliner chairs begat comfort. The look was laid back and made for relaxing, but the colors reflected the rebellion of the era.
You’d find kitchen tables with brightly colored vinyl seats, long sofas made for stretching out on. Piles of pillows for lounging and listening to music. Lava lamps. The latest in technology, dishwashers started popping up high-end homes, dimmer switches allowed for mood lighting, telephones in multiple rooms instead of one central location.
Stereo consoles, big pieces of furniture with a turntable and speakers all in one unit, became centerpieces of newly added dens and family rooms. Unlike the large entertainment centers of the last few decades, these vintage consoles are still in demand. They make for fun storage and display pieces and can be upgraded to work with modern technology. . With vinyl albums making a comeback, many of them offer excellent storage for those LPs.
The first molded plastic chair known as the Panton chair is still popular today and is a great way to add a 60s touch. Create a real or faux stone or wood wall. Add a few pops of pink and orange accessories. use 1960s inspired fabrics for soft furnishings. You might not want to have wall to wall shag carpet, but a small accent shag rug on a hardwood floor is a great look. Framed album covers are an inexpensive way to channel the 60s.
Get the Look of the 1960s:
Notes: The site Ultra Swank has pictures and descriptions showcasing the colors and decor styles of the 1960s. If you love the look of the Swingin Sixties, Retro Planet has a great post with ideas to recreate the 60s style. If your style is more Mad Men than Twiggy, check out these 1960s magazine photos from House Beautiful.
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