This week we are celebrating the revival of the 1950’s. The fifties were quite an exuberant era, with striking colour palettes and innovative furniture designs that were unusual, yet managed to retain modernity and classic appeal. There are a number of ways you can create this look in your own home with a contemporary twist.

 

Colour is very important in creating a fifties look in any room. Deep reds, mustard yellows, emerald greens and earthy teals are key shades in an authentic 50’s colour palette. These may seem dramatic but, when teamed together correctly with neutral shades of grey or sand, can create a bright and modern living area, bedroom, bathroom or even kitchen. For a hint of fifties glamour in your home, consider colours such as Aqua Dark, Yellow Dark, English Fire and Green Chilli in your colour scheme.

 

For a fifties inspired living room, opt for a neutral wall colour such as Sumptuous Silk. This will soften the impact of a boldly printed sofa and armchairs in a deep red or dark grey. Clashing patterns are also a popular fifties trend, so wallpaper with a strong geometric pattern in a contrasting colour on the chimney breast will liven up the neutral walls. Soft furnishings in various yellows and reds, a funky wall mirror and curvy coffee table or nest of tables will finish off your fifties flashback living room look.

 

Walls: Brilliant White and Teal

Shutters, window frames 7 door: Brilliant White

 

When decorating an office space, opt for bright, uplifting colours. Yellows and oranges are proven to aid concentration and memory retention, and bright shades such as Hot Sun, Happy Daze or Orange Squash create an inviting and inspiring environment. A large wall clock, a retro lounge chair in a contrasting colour and a vintage table lamp will add to the fifties feel.

 

The fifties however are not all about bright colours, dusty pastels for a kitchen space work perfectly. Crown’s Classic Collection has a wealth of pastel shades for you to choose from. Painting the window frames, skirting boards and doors a Brilliant White will contrast beautifully with walls in a Classic Rouge or Classic Umber. Painting the kitchen cupboards in a vibrant pastel green such as Elegant Chiffon will add a splash of colour and open up the space. Extra colours such as blue, deep red and yellow can be introduced through floral tablecloths, chair cushions and diner-style kitchenware. Chequered linoleum or tiled flooring in a contrasting colour would work well here, as it requires little maintenance and is reminiscent of a fifties diner.

 

 

Cupboards - Elegant Chiffon

Panelling - Prospect Bay

 

For a bedroom environment, subtle colours are the best way to go. Consider dusky pinks such as Couture or Rosy Cheeks from Crown’s new colourcard. Furnishings in dark brown and soft lighting from a trendy stand alone floor lamp will create a warm and cosy space.

 

 

 

 Walls: Powder Blue  

 

Walls: Modern Organic/Classic Silk

 

For more options from any of the beautiful ranges from Crown Paints, log onto www.crownpaints.ie to request a colour card or pop into any DIY store that stocks Crown Paints.

 

Happy Decorating 

 

Neville