Better, a home ownership platform with a free mortgage calculator, researched notable interior design trends from every decade over the past 100 years. This information was gathered from the Museum of Modern Art, Architectural Digest, and Journal of Engineering and Architecture. Photos and stories behind these trends were also compiled to explain how American homes have transformed over the years.
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After the frenetic and fun 1980s, the 1990s seemed a lot slower and relaxed with the decade bringing a toned-down style that was neutral and simple. The minimalist vibe can be seen in this loft apartment featuring a living room with exposed brick walls, clean lines, and plenty of natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. Beige and gray color palettes added to the minimalism found in interior design.For a bolder color choice, hunter green became popular in the 1990s. White kitchens, light-colored wood flooring, and pine furniture were simple design elements found in many homes. Japanese-influenced accents helped create a clean, uncluttered look while incorporating a more natural element.
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The 21st century brought a return to vintage style. Shabby chic design featured well-worn furniture that looks faded and old in light colors like beige, light pinks, and creams. Shabby chic did not have to be old. Newer items could be distressed in order to give the item an antique look. Interior design elements featured old paintings with worn frames, vintage wallpaper, flowy white curtains in light materials, and large chandeliers. The beige lounge above features a light color palette of beige and creams with a variety of vintage and romantic elements including crown molding, a fireplace, wall sconces, and a crystal chandelier.
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This image is a perfect example of 2010s interior design, with a wooden table against a blue carpet and a pink sofa in a gray living room. Pink against a darker color like brown or deep gray was a popular design trend found in many homes of the time. Mixed metal furnishings were also in vogue during the second decade of the 21st century.Millennial pink often was used as an accent on a wall or a door so it popped and became a focal point of the room. The decade’s most popular design trends also included the chevron pattern, Scandinavian minimalism, and modern farmhouse, which featured antique furniture, shiplap, industrial fixtures, and a simple color palette of grays, whites, and blacks.
