Affiliate Disclosure:
This article includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only endorse products or services that I personally use and believe will benefit my readers. Your support is highly appreciated!
The 1930s, marked by elegance and innovation, captivated interior design enthusiasts. The living room, the heart of any home, is the ideal canvas to showcase this period’s charm.
Let’s embark on a journey through 17 decor ideas that will seamlessly transport your living space back to this golden age, from the allure of Art Deco to the sleekness of streamlined modernism.
1. Embrace Art Deco Glamour:
With its bold geometric patterns and lavish metallic accents, Art Deco epitomizes 1930s sophistication. Introduce striking geometric patterns through wallpaper and rugs. These patterns were a defining feature of Art Deco, adding a sense of dynamism.
Complement this with metallic accents—think gold, silver, or chrome—incorporated through lamps, picture frames, or decorative objects. Consider adorning your walls with a set of Art Deco-inspired wall sconces to capture the Art Deco spirit truly.
2. Streamlined Modernism:
Streamlined modernism, emphasizing clean lines and functional forms, offers a contrasting yet equally captivating 1930s aesthetic. Opt for furniture that has sleek silhouettes and smooth surfaces crafted from chrome and glass.
To enhance this aesthetic, embrace a neutral color palette featuring white, beige, gray, or black shades. These understated hues harmonize beautifully with the streamlined forms. A chrome and glass coffee table would be a striking centerpiece in such a setting.
3. Cozy Traditionalism:
For those drawn to a more classic and inviting atmosphere, 1930s traditionalism offers a delightful alternative. Introduce floral fabrics into your living room through curtains, cushions, or throws. These patterns infuse the space with warmth and femininity, creating a welcoming and lived-in feel.
Consider incorporating antique furniture pieces, such as a majestic grandfather clock. These pieces add character and tell a story, connecting your living room to the rich history of the era. A vintage floral armchair would be a lovely addition to a cozy traditional living room.
4. Warm Wood Tones:
In the 1930s, there was a fondness for warm wood tones, which brought a sense of natural beauty and grounding to interior spaces. Embrace this trend by selecting wood furniture like mahogany, walnut, or cherry.
Consider incorporating wooden paneling on one or more walls for a bolder statement. This architectural element adds a layer of texture and warmth. A mahogany bookcase would beautifully showcase your literary collection, adding a touch of 1930s elegance.
5. Curved Silhouettes:
The 1930s embraced curves, celebrating their graceful and fluid forms in furniture design. Opt for sofas and chairs with curved backs and arms, as these pieces infuse the space with elegance and dynamism.
To complement this aesthetic, consider a round coffee table. The gentle curves of a round table soften the room’s overall look. A velvet armchair with curved arms would be a luxurious and stylish addition to any 1930s-inspired living room.
6. Vintage Lighting:
Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood and ambiance of any space, and the 1930s offered a wealth of captivating options. Install sconces and chandeliers adorned with intricate designs that emanate a warm, inviting glow.
Consider placing table lamps with fringed shades on side tables for a whimsical touch. These charming lamps create a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. A Tiffany-style table lamp would be a stunning addition, casting a colorful and mesmerizing light.
7. Statement Rugs:
A well-chosen rug can anchor a room and tie together its design elements. In a 1930s-inspired living room, consider opting for an Oriental rug with rich colors and intricate patterns. These rugs introduce warmth and texture, creating a sense of visual depth and inviting comfort.
Alternatively, an Art Deco rug with its bold geometric shapes and vibrant colors can make a striking statement, serving as a focal point and conversation starter. A sunburst motif would be a particularly eye-catching choice.
8. Dramatic Draperies:
Draperies can transform a room, adding drama and sophistication. Embrace the grandeur of the 1930s by hanging velvet or silk draperies with elaborate folds and tassels.
These luxurious fabrics exude luxury and create a sense of intimacy. For an even more dramatic effect, consider floor-to-ceiling draperies. A set of velvet drapes with tassel tiebacks would be a fitting choice for a luxurious 1930s living room.
9. Decorative Screens:
Decorative screens served both functional and aesthetic purposes in 1930s interiors. Introduce a folding screen adorned with Asian motifs to create a sense of privacy or divide an ample space into distinct zones.
Alternatively, an Art Deco screen with geometric patterns can introduce a touch of glamour and visual intrigue. A three-panel folding screen with a chinoiserie design would be a beautiful and versatile addition.
10. Fireplace as a Focal Point:
The fireplace often served as the heart of the 1930s living room, radiating warmth and providing a gathering place for family and friends. Enhance its visual appeal by surrounding it with decorative tiles featuring Art Deco or geometric patterns.
Decorate the mantel with vintage clocks, candlesticks, or framed photographs, creating a personalized and inviting display. Art Deco fireplace tiles would beautifully frame your hearth and add a touch of period charm.
11. Sunburst Mirrors:
Sunburst mirrors, with their radiating rays and Art Deco flair, were a popular decorative element in the 1930s. Hang one above the mantel to create a dramatic focal point that draws the eye upward and adds a sense of grandeur.
Alternatively, place a sunburst mirror in a dark corner to reflect light and brighten the space, creating an illusion of openness and airiness. A gold-finished sunburst mirror would add a touch of glamour and visual interest to any wall.
12. Houseplants:
Bringing nature indoors was a cherished practice in the 1930s, and houseplants are a beloved element in interior design today. Introduce ferns and palms into your living room to add a touch of freshness and vitality.
For a touch of bohemian flair, consider hanging plants in macrame hangers. This adds a playful and artistic element, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the space. A Boston fern in a woven basket would be a classic and elegant choice.
13. Bookshelves:
Bookshelves store literary treasures and serve as a visual testament to your interests and passions. Consider installing floor-to-ceiling bookshelves in a 1930s-inspired living room to showcase your collection and create a sense of grandeur.
Alternatively, built-in bookshelves flanking the fireplace offer a cozy and traditional look, inviting you to curl up with a good book on a chilly evening. A set of vintage-style bookends would add a charming touch to your shelves.
14. Artwork:
Artwork is essential in any well-designed space, and the 1930s offered many inspiring options. Hang Art Deco posters with their bold colors and graphic designs to infuse your living room with energy and modernity.
Alternatively, display vintage paintings depicting landscapes or still life scenes to add a touch of classic beauty and serenity. A framed vintage travel poster would be a conversation starter and a window into the past.
15. Collections on Display:
The 1930s embraced the art of display, showcasing cherished collections with pride. If you have a collection of china or glassware, consider showcasing it in a china cabinet or on open shelves. This adds a touch of personal history and visual interest to the space.
Similarly, vintage toys or knick-knacks can be displayed on shelves or in shadow boxes, creating charming vignettes that spark conversation and evoke nostalgia. A set of vintage teacups would be a delightful addition to any display.
16. Radio or Gramophone:
Music played a central role in 1930s entertainment, and incorporating a vintage radio or gramophone into your living room pays homage to this cherished pastime. Place a vintage radio on a console table or bookshelf for a touch of nostalgia.
Alternatively, a gramophone with its iconic horn is a unique and conversation-starting piece, transporting you back to a time when music filled the airwaves and brought people together. A vintage-style Bluetooth speaker disguised as a radio would be a clever way to blend modern technology with 1930s aesthetics.
17. Comfortable Seating:
No living room is complete without comfortable seating that invites relaxation and conversation. Arrange plush armchairs with rounded backs and soft upholstery to create cozy nooks for lounging. These inviting seats beckon you to unwind and enjoy the ambiance of your 1930s-inspired space.
For an added touch of luxury, consider incorporating a chaise lounge. This elegant piece offers a place to stretch out and relax. A set of velvet throw pillows would add a touch of comfort and color to your seating arrangement.
Final Thoughts
Decorating your living room in the 1930s style is more than just an exercise in interior design; it’s a journey back to an era defined by elegance, innovation, and enduring charm. By incorporating these 17 ideas, you can create a visually stunning and profoundly inviting space, a true reflection of the golden age of design.
Whether you embrace the glamour of Art Deco, the sleekness of modernism, or the warmth of traditionalism, your 1930s-inspired living room will be a testament to your appreciation for timeless beauty and a source of inspiration for years to come.
