Check out design through the decades and get inspired

Lanaby Lana
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In Design History

I’m always fascinated by the evolution of decorating over time, and how it reflects cultural shifts, technological advancements, and changing tastes. Just for fun, let’s explore some of the key visual clues of each decade.

1900s – Art Deco Influence

Glamour meets geometry – the bold, elegant lines of Art Deco make everything feel like a masterpiece. Photo by Cameron Carothers

1910s – Living Large

For the lucky few living the high life, 1910s style with fabulous molding and trim, gilt finishes and lots of art. Photo courtesy of insideinside

1920s – Modernist Art and Architecture

Breaking away from tradition, the 1920s let art and architecture tell a new story of innovation and simplicity. Photo: Getty Images

1930s – Streamline Moderne Style

Even the Great Depression couldn’t stop the evolution of interior design. Sleek and stylish, ’30s design saw a revolution that included industrial materials and clean lines.

1940s – Dorothy Draper Style and Bold Color

Bold, dramatic, and unapologetically colorful – Dorothy Draper redefined interior design with a dash of glamour. Photo courtesy of Huffington Post

1950s – Mid Century Modern and Earth Tones

Clean lines, organic shapes, and a warm embrace of earthy tones — the ‘50s made modern look cozy. Photo: Getty Images

1960s – Mod Shapes and Unexpected Color

Vibrant, playful, and full of energy – the ’60s were a visual revolution of patterns and unexpected pops of color. Photo courtesy of Binyan Studios

1970s – David Hicks Style and Groovy Bright Colors

The ’70s were all about bold, funky patterns and a color palette that screamed fun, freedom, and fabulousness. Photo Getty Images

1980s – Preppy Pastels and Chintz

Big bows, floral prints, and pastel perfection — the ’80s brought charm and sophistication to every corner.

1990s – The Friends Apartment and Global Influences

From purple walls to Moroccan rugs, the ’90s blended quirky style with world influences for a look that’s iconic. Photo courtesy of NBC

2000s – All White Kitchens

Sleek, pristine, and oh-so-modern. The 2000s brought the clean, minimalist look of all-white kitchens to the forefront. Photo courtesy of House Beautiful

2010s – Rustic Industrial and Modern Farmhouse

A little bit of barn charm and industrial edge – the 2010s and Joanna Gaines made ‘homey’ feel incredibly chic. Photo from Good Homes Magazine

2020s – Home Offices and Eclectic Style

Your home, your rules. The 2020s embraced the blend of functionality and style, making home offices feel as creative as they are productive. (And painted joinery and millwork took center stage in every room of the house.) Photo from bobvila.com

What’s your favorite design decade? Let’s chat about how it could inform your next Room Makeover!

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