Living Room 1930s House Interior

Stepping Back in Time: A Guide to 1930s Living Room Interior Design

The 1930s, a decade bridging the Roaring Twenties and the onset of World War II, offered a unique blend of styles in interior design. Plus, this article will get into the defining characteristics of a 1930s living room, exploring its furniture, color palettes, materials, and overall atmosphere to help you recreate this captivating period style in your own home. Think about it: living rooms of this era reflected a shift towards a more streamlined aesthetic, moving away from the ornate excesses of previous decades while retaining a sense of warmth and elegance. Whether you're a history buff, an aspiring interior designer, or simply captivated by the charm of bygone eras, this practical guide will provide you with the knowledge and inspiration to design a truly authentic 1930s living room.

Defining the 1930s Aesthetic: A Blend of Styles

The 1930s living room wasn't defined by a single, monolithic style. Instead, it represented a fascinating fusion of influences, primarily drawing from:

Art Deco: This influential movement, with its geometric patterns, streamlined forms, and luxurious materials like chrome and lacquer, made a significant impact. You'll see this reflected in furniture with bold lines and decorative accents.
Streamline Moderne: A sub-style of Art Deco, Streamline Moderne emphasized smooth curves, aerodynamic shapes, and a sense of speed and modernity. Think sleek furniture with rounded edges and a focus on functionality.
Traditionalism with a Twist: While ornate Victorian styles were fading, traditional elements like fireplaces, wood paneling, and comfortable upholstery remained popular, but with a more simplified and refined approach.

Key Elements of a 1930s Living Room

To accurately capture the essence of a 1930s living room, consider these key components:

1. Furniture: Comfort and Style in Harmony

Furniture in 1930s living rooms prioritized both comfort and style. Here's what you'll find:

Sofas and Armchairs: Deep, plush sofas and armchairs were central to the living room's design. These were often upholstered in luxurious fabrics like velvet, damask, or brocade, in rich colors like burgundy, emerald green, or deep blues. Shapes ranged from more traditional designs with rolled arms to sleeker, more streamlined styles. Look for pieces with tapered legs and subtle decorative details like nailhead trim.
Coffee Tables: Low, often round or oval coffee tables, sometimes with glass tops, provided a central focal point in the room. Materials ranged from wood to chrome or even glass, reflecting the era's fascination with modern materials.
Side Tables: Small side tables, typically with a similar design language to the coffee table, were used for lamps, ashtrays (a common accessory of the time), and other decorative items.
Writing Desks and Bookcases: Built-in or freestanding writing desks and bookcases, often with Art Deco-inspired details, added functionality and style.
Built-in Cabinets and Storage: Built-in cabinetry was a popular feature, offering ample storage while adding to the room's architectural character.

2. Color Palettes: Rich Hues and Subtle Contrasts

The color palettes of 1930s living rooms were generally rich and sophisticated, often incorporating:

Deep Jewel Tones: Think emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, and amethyst purple. These colors created a sense of luxury and drama.
Muted Neutrals: Creams, beiges, and greys provided a calming backdrop for the bolder accent colors.
Metallic Accents: Gold, silver, and bronze were used sparingly in decorative elements, adding a touch of glamour.

Avoid overly bright or pastel colors, as they don't reflect the era's aesthetic.

3. Materials: A Blend of Old and New

The materials used in 1930s living rooms showcase a fascinating blend of traditional and modern elements:

Wood: Wood remained a staple, with hardwoods like mahogany and walnut being popular choices. Often, the wood was finished in a dark, polished sheen.
Chrome and Metal: Chrome and other metals, particularly nickel and brass, were incorporated into furniture legs, lighting fixtures, and decorative accents, showcasing the era's embrace of modern materials.
Luxurious Fabrics: Velvet, damask, brocade, and other richly textured fabrics were used for upholstery, adding to the room's sense of luxury.
Leather: Leather was occasionally used for upholstery, particularly in armchairs and ottomans, lending a sophisticated and durable touch.

4. Lighting: A Focus on Ambiance

Lighting played a crucial role in setting the mood of a 1930s living room:

Table Lamps and Floor Lamps: These were essential for creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Styles ranged from simple, streamlined designs to more elaborate pieces with decorative bases.
Wall Sconces: Wall sconces provided additional lighting and added to the room's decorative character.
Chandeliers and Pendant Lights: While not always present, chandeliers or pendant lights could be found in more formal living rooms, adding a touch of elegance. These often featured geometric or Art Deco-inspired designs.

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5. Accessories and Decorative Elements: Adding Personal Touches

Accessories were carefully chosen to complete the 1930s look:

Rugs: Oriental rugs or rugs with geometric patterns added warmth and visual interest to the floor.
Curtains: Heavy drapes in rich fabrics, often with coordinating tiebacks, added to the room's luxurious feel.
Artwork: Art Deco-inspired prints or paintings, often featuring geometric shapes and bold colors, were popular choices.
Mirrors: Mirrors, especially those with Art Deco-inspired frames, added visual depth and reflected light.
Plants: Potted plants, such as ferns or palms, added a touch of nature and life to the living room.

6. Architectural Details: Embracing the Existing Structure

If you're working with a house from the 1930s, try to highlight the existing architectural details:

Fireplaces: Fireplaces were often a focal point of the room and should be showcased. A mantelpiece decorated with appropriate accessories adds to the overall aesthetic.
Wood Paneling: Wood paneling, if present, adds to the period's charm and should be preserved or restored.
Crown Molding and Baseboards: These architectural details contribute to the overall elegance of the room and should be maintained or replicated if necessary.

Recreate the Charm: Practical Steps to Designing Your 1930s Living Room

Research and Inspiration: Immerse yourself in the 1930s aesthetic. Browse vintage magazines, photographs, and online resources to gather inspiration. Visit museums and historical houses for firsthand experience.
Color Palette Selection: Choose a color palette that aligns with the 1930s style. Consider using a rich jewel tone as your dominant color, complemented by muted neutrals.
Furniture Selection: Source furniture that reflects the period's style. Look for pieces with streamlined forms, tapered legs, and luxurious upholstery. Antique shops, flea markets, and online marketplaces are great resources. Replicas are also available if original pieces are beyond your budget.
Material Choices: Prioritize materials that are consistent with the era, such as hardwood, chrome, and luxurious fabrics. If choosing new furniture, select pieces with finishes and fabrics that evoke the period's aesthetic.
Lighting Considerations: Select lighting fixtures that complement the overall style. Consider table lamps, floor lamps, wall sconces, or a chandelier with Art Deco or Streamline Moderne influences.
Accessorizing: Carefully choose accessories that add to the room's character. Include rugs, curtains, artwork, and decorative objects that reflect the 1930s aesthetic.
Highlight Architectural Details: If you're lucky enough to have a house from the 1930s, preserve and showcase its original architectural features, such as fireplaces, wood paneling, and crown molding.
Create a Sense of Cohesion: Ensure all elements of your design work together to create a harmonious and authentic 1930s atmosphere. Pay attention to detail and avoid mixing too many disparate styles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Where can I find authentic 1930s furniture?

A: Antique shops, flea markets, online auction sites, and estate sales are excellent places to find authentic 1930s furniture. You can also find high-quality reproductions from specialist furniture retailers.

Q: Are reproductions acceptable for a 1930s-style living room?

A: Yes, absolutely! Reproductions are a great way to achieve the look without breaking the bank. Look for pieces made with quality materials and accurate to the period's style.

Q: How can I incorporate modern elements without compromising the 1930s aesthetic?

A: You can subtly incorporate modern conveniences, such as updated wiring for lighting or more energy-efficient heating, without compromising the overall style. Focus on maintaining the period's furniture and decor while integrating modern functionality behind the scenes.

Q: What if my living room is small? Can I still achieve a 1930s look?

A: Yes! Now, choose furniture with clean lines and streamlined silhouettes to maximize space. Use lighter colours on the walls to create a sense of openness.

Q: Is it important to stick to a purely authentic 1930s look?

A: Not necessarily. That's why the goal is to capture the spirit and essence of the era, not to create a museum-like display. Feel free to personalize your design while maintaining the core elements of the style.

Conclusion: Embrace the Elegance of the Past

Designing a 1930s living room is a rewarding project that allows you to embrace the elegance and sophistication of a bygone era. Remember that authenticity lies not only in recreating the exact details but also in capturing the mood and atmosphere of the time. By carefully selecting furniture, colors, materials, and accessories, you can create a space that is both stylish and comfortable, a testament to the timeless appeal of 1930s design. Let your creativity guide you, and enjoy the process of bringing this fascinating era to life in your own home.