Are you a fan of postmodern architecture designs? If so, you probably wish you could rebuild your home or apartment to be a postmodern masterpiece. While tearing down your house and starting fresh might not be realistic, you can always look for ways to bring the best of postmodern architecture into your home.
Postmodern interior design is vibrant, revolutionary, and achievable in your home if you follow these five simple guidelines.
Characteristics of Post Modern Interior Design
Somewhat ironically, postmodernism refers to a style of art, architecture, and design that emerged several decades ago. The movement began in the late 1950s as a reaction against the traditional values of modern house design. However, postmodernism didn’t take off in the mainstream until the late 70s and early 80s. From home painting to the furniture, every aspect of postmodern design is characterized by its eclectic and often chaotic aesthetic, incorporating a wide range of styles and influences.
Postmodern design is often bold and colorful, with a mix of different textures and materials. It is not afraid to experiment with new forms and shapes. And it often makes use of pop culture references and humor.
Use Bold Colors
The earliest adopters of postmodern interior design were not holding back. In the early 80s, postmodern interior decorators were fearless, using wild combinations of neon colors.
Today’s postmodern decor still favors bold colors, although bold today doesn’t necessarily mean bright.
Source: artstation.com
The most common color choices for postmodernists today strive to achieve powerful contrasts. For example, earth tones like forest green paired with midnight black accents break many of the rules that many home painters follow.
Postmodern design is about defying expectations, so don’t limit yourself to predetermined color palettes.
Embrace Asymmetry
In direct contrast to the clean, geometric lines of the modern era, postmodernism revels in deconstructivism and asymmetry. This can be seen in everything from the furnishings to the room’s layout.
While you don’t want your home to look like a disaster zone, some asymmetry can add visual interest to any space.
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One easy way to introduce asymmetry into your postmodern home is with your artwork. Many interior designers would advise you to display art on your wall in clean, predictable patterns. Pairing artwork of various styles and sizes is a bold choice that can pay off.
Additionally, look for furniture and fixtures that don’t conform to conventions. For example, a wave-shaped sofa or a contorted floor lamp can deliver a postmodern personality to any room in your home.
Choose Clashing Materials
In the spirit of asymmetry, postmodernism also embraces clashing materials. This can manifest in several ways.
For example, try layering rugs in your living room. This adds both visual and tactile interest to the space. You can also experiment with different textures by incorporating velvets, wools, and chenilles into your furniture and accent pieces.
Source: wikipedia.org
Another way to clash materials is with distinct finishes. Try pairing a glossy coffee table with a matte sofa. Or use stainless steel appliances in a kitchen with rust-colored accents.
Maximalism is at the heart of postmodern interior design. So, don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials until you find a combination that feels right.
Embrace Branded Decor
Would you put a giant neon Coca-Cola in your formal living room? You’re probably scoffing at the idea if you’re a fan of modern interior design. On the other hand, postmodernism celebrates the absurdity of life by inserting pop culture elements into spaces traditionally reserved for “high art.”
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Take the work of Andy Warhol, for example. His famous prints of soup cans and movie stars shocked art collectors with their bold statements on consumerism and corporate branding.
You don’t need to be a legendary artist to experiment with postmodernism in your home. You can start by hanging pictures of your favorite celebrities or pop culture icons. Remember to balance out your pop art with various pieces of high art. The resulting contrast will solidify your home’s commitment to postmodern style.
Have a Sense of Humor
Postmodernism is often associated with a sense of playfulness. This can be seen in the work of artists like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, who created artwork that was both fun and thought-provoking.
You can bring this sense of playfulness into your home by incorporating humor into your decorating scheme.
Source: metrie.com
Postmodernist exemplifies their playfulness by prioritizing form over function. Other styles try to disguise ornamental home features by camouflaging them into the house’s structure.
Postmodernism highlights these elements by making them vibrant centerpieces of the design.
Put Your Personal Spin on Postmodernism
If you’re looking to add a touch of postmodernism to your home, be sure to stick to these five easy tips. Use bold colors, embrace asymmetry, choose clashing materials, embrace branded decor and inject some humor into your design. With these principles in mind, you can take any room in your house and turn it into a work of postmodernism that reflects your unique personality. Ready to get started? Bring postmodern design to any room in your home with these tips.
