The Sixties were a time of enormous change, both technologically and socially. The space race was on and the American culture was focused on Sputnik, the Cold War and jet airplanes that were able to transport people faster than ever before.
American culture was also focused on a younger generation that was busy rebelling against long-established traditions. This rebellion had a huge impact on fashion, music and home décor. Everything became more dynamic, graphic and colorful. Life in the ’60s focused on self-expression and home décor was just the place for people to make their individual statement.
Colors were inspired by nature. Green, gold, orange and yellow were very popular and could be found on everything from clothes to home décor. Previous eras had similar popular colors, but in the ’60s they were pumped up to vibrant hues. Psychedelic colors played off one another for maximum impact. Contrasts in black-and white were also popular. The desired effect was to create maximum impact for a striking, provocative look.
Furniture was made of metal, glass, wood and PVC, and sometimes combinations of these. New technologies allowed furniture to be made from molded plastic and formed into organic or space age shapes. A lot of furniture was designed to be disposable and temporary.
Styles were fun and witty overall. Homes were now being built with casual family rooms or dens in addition to having just a formal living room. The TV became the focal point of the family room.
These vintage photos captured people at their living rooms in the 1960s.
