INT331: History of Interiors

A world energy crisis, and consequently a global recession, took great tolls during the 1970’s. This in turn, crushed the modernist design movement and caused a consumerism attitude among most people. In the 1980’s, the economics improved, but the culture generally stayed the same; self-oriented and consumeristic. Modernism was replaced with a new movement that lacked the same rationality that was held at such high regard. Irony and distortion of scale were now valued, and bright colors were often used in both interiors and exteriors. Ornamentation and historical precedents also made a comeback. Groups like The New York Five formed,  the Memphis Movement took place, and the idea of “Deconstructivism” emerged.   Memphis Movement Chairs Venturi House Robert Venturi Current Applications: Guggenheim Musuem Today Frank Gehry Post Modernism Inspired Interior Today One step further… Frank Gehry is a famous architect, best known for t...

The era from the 1950’s to the 1970’s in modern design was a time of experimentation. Designers such as Charles and Ray Eames designed furniture with materials such as plywood and plastic, which was attractive and also affordable for the middle class. Eero Saarinen was another famous designer from this era. His designs brought the Scandinavian style to the United States. One of his best known pieces was the Womb Chair. Manufacturers like Knoll and Herman Miller emerged during this era. They specialized in modern office furniture and equipment. This was where we were introduced to pieces such as the Eames Lounge Chair and the Marshmallow Sofa.  Eero Saarinen Tulip table and chairs Eames Lounge Chair Current Applications: Eames Furniture in current application Artist, Lianne Nixon illustrates interiors inspired by Charles and Ray Eames REALLY COOL! Check it out here: https://www.itsnicethat.com/articles/lianne-nixon-illustration-100217 One step fur...