Colour Through the Decades: 70s, 80s and 90s

To celebrate our 75^th year, we’ve asked Joa Studholme to escort us on a tour of 20^th-century colour history. This second leg of our journey begins in the groovy homes (or should we say “pads”?) of the 1970s, before veering wildly through the pastel-hued 80s and into the zen abodes of the neutral 90s. Which will be your favourite?

1970s

“Browns, oranges and purples were considered the groovy colours of the 1970s and were often used in bold patterns and combinations. Mellower and easier to live with than those of the previous decade, their earthy natural tones reflected a connection to nature, with dark brown woodwork being extraordinarily popular."

Walls: Charlotte’s Locks No.268

Feature Wall: Bamboo BP 2161

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1980s

“Although the 80s are often associated with excess, the colours used in home décor were mostly pastel hues – just often used all within one room! While pretty country schemes were all the rage, often borrowed from the French farmhouse aesthetic, there were also louder schemes with pinks, greens and yellows being combined to create candy-coloured palaces.”

Walls: Green Blue No.84

Walls: Cinder Rose No.246; Door: Black Blue No.95

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1990s

“The 90s was all about creating a feeling of zen in the home, using soft and subtle colours that made us feel comfortable. Warm based neutrals, with their soft and soothing tones, were plentiful, and contrasts were kept to a minimum to create a flow throughout the house.”