Clients sometimes ask us what our personal interior design style preference is. The answer is most likely something along the lines of, “it’s your preference that is what’s important.” Read on for a primer on the playfulness of Postmodernism.
For making a bold statement, asserting your own creative individualism or for adding a bit of rebellion, there’s no better style than Postmodernism. The Museum of Modern Art ( MoMA.org) describes Postmodernism as “a reaction against modernism. It is less a cohesive movement than an approach and attitude toward art, culture, and society. Its main characteristics include anti-authoritarianism, or refusal to recognize the authority of any single style or definition of what art should be; and the collapsing of the distinction between high culture and mass or popular culture, and between art and everyday life. Postmodern art and architecture can be also characterized by a deliberate use of earlier styles and conventions, and an eclectic mixing of different artistic and popular styles and mediums.”
In the 1960’s, Architects, designers and others were thinking outside of the modernist construct to create something new and exciting. A goal of Postmodern interior design was to make spaces that are truly unique.
Furnishings used in Postmodernism are limited only by one’s imagination and ability to find the unusual. An interior designer, of course, can help with that. Our access to resources is quite extensive.
This is your opportunity to playfully mix materials, colors, textures and sometimes even unconventional art and furniture. Designers love to help clients find that one “statement piece” that really sets a room apart. With Postmodern design, the entire room makes a statement. A bold one.
Such creativity can be applied to any room. In a living room, for example, use a mix of vintage and modern furniture. Add bold, colorful rugs with geometric patterns. Accessorize with a combination of original art and playful décor items.
In a kitchen, make your foundation brightly colored cabinets or appliances can set the mood. Open shelving will allow you to display an eclectic mix of dishware or art. Unique backsplashes with bold patterns also can add personality. Interesting lighting choices in bold colors can finish the look.
In a bedroom, combine classic with contemporary furniture. For instance, an unusually shaped headboard in a bold color can make a striking statement. Layered bedding in bold color or pattern is a great choice.
Don’t forget the bathroom. It’s a wonderful space for very bold, graphic wallpaper design or tiles with overscale or unique patterns. Mingling retro and modern plumbing fixtures can be fun, especially with colorful faucets. Clinch the look with quirky accessories like an uncommonly shaped mirror and you have a bold Postmodern statement.
The design choices can be endless. Make sure to have fun with it. Your interior designer can help you make the right selections for your spaces.
