Since Plumbs opened for business over 50 years ago, there have been dramatic changes in home decor choices and trends, influenced by cultural changes in the world beyond interiors.
We wanted to create a visual representation of this; reflecting on the trends that have passed through our homes within the last half century…
1950s:
Over 60 years ago in the 1950s, the war had finished and style preceded practicality for the first time in decades. Trends were modern and centred around the mass-produced ideas of ‘kitsch’ which revolved around popular appeal and what might be considered to be “gaudy” decoration.
1960s:
This was an exciting era for design: with the age of ‘free love’ swiftly approaching in the 1960’s, modernism was out in favour of Art Nouveau. The age of flower power and free love was translated into design and home interior became more ‘anything goes’ than ever before.
1970s:
Bold prints transcended into the 1970s alongside geometrics. The recession had hit Britain and the idea of ‘make do and mend’ was popular; households were fixing items instead of buying new.
1980s:
1980s interiors meant that no pattern was too much; think preppy fabrics and pastels echoing the fashion at that time, with lycra, perms and legwarmers being en-vogue.
1990s:
Following the 80s, interior design started to tone down. Minimalism was making a name for itself in UK households, a contrast compared to the popular culture of the 80s; the Spice Girls, Union Jacks… patriotism meets Britpop meets pared-back design, believe it or not!
2000s:
British homes were then influenced by the celebrity culture of the time. Whilst reality TV became a staple to British homes, designs became more individualistic and people began putting a ‘stamp’ on their homes. The trend for all homes to look the same was moving away.
2010 – now:
Over the past five years, design has reflected technology; it’s cleaner, crisper and much more individual. Check the infographic out below!
