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By Kit Kilroy Interiors 16.10.2022

Tracking the Biggest Bedroom Trends of the Last 10 Decades

Travel through time to see the biggest bedroom decor trends of the last 10 decades.

One of the best things about interior design trends is that they’re always changing. Though it’s hard to pinpoint short-term, reflecting on the past 5 years, 10 years, or beyond illuminates just how much our styles change – and relatively quickly!

Odds are you don’t wear the same clothes today that you did 10 years ago, and the same can also be said for your home decor. The differences in decor styles become even more pronounced once we zoom out. By looking at a decade as a whole, it’s easy to spot the subtle differences that make each era unique when it comes to interior design.

So, if thinking back is making you a little nostalgic, join us on a journey through the past 100 years to see what bedroom trends looked like during each decade. From the Art Deco detailing of the 1920s to the earthy vibes of the 2020s, we’ll lay out the biggest interior design trends that have defined bedrooms over the last 10 decades. Who knows, you might just be inspired by the years gone by.

1920s

Bedroom decor in the 1920s was largely Art Deco-inspired. This looked like geometrical patterns, shiny material, and intricate detailing. Bedrooms, in particular, were big on colour and often had a flair for the feminine. In the early 1920s, florals and pastels reigned supreme, but by the decade's close, richer colours and exotic-inspired elements were beginning to gain popularity.

1930s

By the 1930s, Art Deco had cemented itself as the primary decor style of choice. While this trend originated in the 1910s, it took another two decades to fully catch on. If you walked into a 1930s bedroom, you’d likely be met with bold colour combinations including warm yellows and oranges, as well as various shades of blue. 1930s style also calls to mind ‘futuristic’ elements, which appeared in bedrooms in the form of intricately-cut mirrors, or standing lamps with dramatic lines.

1940s

In a 1940s bedroom, you could expect to see the Art Moderne style reflected. Whether bedrooms in the 1940s were traditional or modern, “pattern and jewel-tone colour [defined] the era, and strategic use of these elements spotlights areas of bedroom elegance,” according to SF Gate. In a 1940s bedroom, you’d likely see moderne furniture. Round mirrors, upholstered headboards, and tailored drapes all would’ve been par for the course.

1950s

If you’re familiar with the fashions of the 1950s – thanks, Grease! – then it will come as no surprise to hear that pastels were big. This trend was also reflected in bedroom decor, which mostly centred around pastel hues like soft pink, mint green, and buttery yellows. Upholstery and linens were often patterned, sometimes featuring bold geometric prints. Wood panelling was a must, “cut in the Pickwick tongue and grove style with a warm glowing golden finish.”

1960s

Mid-Century Modern was huge in the 1960s, and it’s an interior design trend that’s still holding strong today. Common elements of this design style include wooden furniture, unique silhouettes, and plenty of bright colours. In a 1960s bedroom, you might see a teak bed with an acrylic resin bedside table pulled up next to it. The colours of this era, while bright, were often inspired by nature, particularly reflecting the natural elements of the California coastline. Sunshine yellows, forest greens, and ocean azures were at the forefront of this era.

1970s

The 1970s have a reputation for being a bit more bohemian, and where interior design trends are concerned, it’s not far off! Rattan was the material of choice in the 1970s, and it’s safe to say that this trend has made a comeback in recent years. 1970s bedroom furniture was often rattan, with headboards, side tables, and dressers featuring the unique look of woven wicker. Another 1970s trend that seems to be making a comeback is the Turkish rug. It wouldn’t have been uncommon to see a 70s bedroom complete with a more traditional-looking hand-woven rug.

1980s

The 1980s was a sort of mixed bag when it comes to bedroom decor trends. On the one hand, bold colours were in. . . and on the other hand, pastels were also in. Regardless of which route the room’s style took, however, colour often played a big role in achieving the ideal '80s aesthetic. Curtains hung over the bed were commonplace, and bedding often featured floral prints.

1990s

When you think of a 1990s bedroom, you might immediately think of a gauzy canopy. One of the major trends of the 90s, canopy beds often featured light and airy materials that aimed to achieve a romantic feel. In addition to the famous canopy, another notorious trend took off in the bedrooms of the 90s: doorway curtains. Beaded curtains, fabric, and macrame were all fair game, but having a doorway hanging was a pretty standard style choice.

2000s

Like the 1990s, the early 2000s were inspired by romance. In addition to the floaty canopies of the 90s, the bedrooms of the 2000s saw the introduction of satin and silk. Florals abounded, and furniture pieces often reflected an idealized version of classical furniture. Pearlescent lamps, lightly coloured bedspreads, flower vases and potpourri were commonplace in 2000s bedrooms.

2010s

While the 2010s might not seem that far away, interior design trends have changed dramatically since then. This decade saw the astronomical popularity of big, bold prints, and bedroom decor was no exception. Chevron bedspreads, oversized floral wallpaper, and ombre feature walls were common bedroom choices during this era. In contrast with the bright prints, walls were typically painted stark white, with a selection of all-white furniture to match.

2020s

While we’ve only dipped our toe into the pool of 2020s decor trends, a few things are already evident. Where the 2010s focused on all-white everything, the 2020s are embracing colour again with open arms. Similar to the colour palettes of the 1960s, 2020s colour trends centre around natural hues. As with colour, texture is also playing a big part in the 2020s, with natural textures being the style of choice. So far, bedrooms of the 2020s seek to be a natural refuge, with linen, rattan, and plenty of houseplants.

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