The 1930s were a time of opulence and glamour, and this was reflected in the interior design of living rooms. One popular way to add a touch of luxury to the walls of a 1930s living room was with wallpaper. Bold and vibrant patterns, such as art deco designs or floral motifs, were often used to create a statement in the room. Wallpaper was not only used for its decorative purposes, but also to add texture and depth to the walls. This was achieved through the use of embossed papers or those with metallic accents. The result was a visually stunning and sophisticated living room.1. 1930s Living Room Walls with Wallpaper
1. 1930s living room walls with wallpaper
Another popular way to add a decorative element to 1930s living room walls was with stenciling. This technique involved using stencils to create repeating patterns or designs on the walls. It was a cost-effective way to add visual interest and could be done in a variety of colors to match the room's decor. Stenciling was often used to create art deco-inspired geometric patterns or nature-inspired motifs, such as leaves or flowers. These stenciled designs added a touch of elegance and sophistication to the living room walls.2. 1930s Living Room Walls with Stenciling
2. 1930s living room walls with stenciling
Paneling was a popular wall treatment in 1930s living rooms, as it added a sense of elegance and luxury to the space. Wood paneling, in particular, was a favorite choice, as it added warmth and texture to the walls. It was often used in darker shades, such as mahogany or walnut, to create a rich and cozy atmosphere. Paneling was also used to create a sense of grandeur in living rooms. It was not uncommon to see paneling installed halfway up the walls, with a contrasting color or wallpaper above it. This added visual interest and dimension to the room.3. 1930s Living Room Walls with Paneling
3. 1930s living room walls with paneling
For a more personalized touch, many homeowners in the 1930s opted for painted designs on their living room walls. This could range from simple hand-painted borders to intricate murals. The designs often reflected the homeowner's interests or showcased their artistic abilities. Painted designs were not limited to just walls; they could also be found on ceilings and even furniture. This added a cohesive and unique touch to the living room's overall design.4. 1930s Living Room Walls with Painted Designs
4. 1930s living room walls with painted designs
In addition to wallpaper and stenciling, textured paint was another way to add dimension and interest to 1930s living room walls. This technique involved using different tools, such as sponges or combs, to create a textured effect on the walls. Textured paint was often used to mimic the look of expensive materials, such as marble or stone, without the hefty price tag. It added a touch of sophistication and elegance to the living room walls.5. 1930s Living Room Walls with Textured Paint
5. 1930s living room walls with textured paint
The 1930s were all about bold and geometric designs, and this trend was reflected in living room walls as well. Geometric patterns, such as chevron or herringbone, were popular choices for wallpaper, stenciling, or painted designs. Geometric patterns added a touch of modernity and art deco flair to the living room. They were often used in contrasting colors to create a striking visual impact.6. 1930s Living Room Walls with Geometric Patterns
6. 1930s living room walls with geometric patterns
Pastel colors were a popular choice for 1930s living room walls, as they added a soft and feminine touch to the space. Light shades of pink, blue, and green were commonly used, often paired with white or cream accents. Pastel colors created a sense of calm and serenity in the living room, making it the perfect space for relaxation and socializing. They also added a touch of playfulness and whimsy to the overall design.7. 1930s Living Room Walls with Pastel Colors
7. 1930s living room walls with pastel colors
The art deco movement was at its peak in the 1930s, and this style heavily influenced living room walls. Art deco accents, such as geometric shapes and bold patterns, were often incorporated into wallpaper or painted designs. Art deco accents added a touch of glamour and sophistication to the living room walls. They were often paired with luxurious materials, such as velvet or silk, to create a truly opulent space.8. 1930s Living Room Walls with Art Deco Accents
8. 1930s living room walls with art deco accents
Floral motifs were a popular choice for 1930s living room walls, as they added a touch of nature and femininity to the space. These motifs were often found in wallpaper or stenciled designs, using soft and delicate colors. Floral motifs created a sense of romance and charm in the living room, making it a warm and inviting space. They were often paired with light and airy furniture to complete the look.9. 1930s Living Room Walls with Floral Motifs
9. 1930s living room walls with floral motifs
Last but not least, wood paneling and molding were a staple in 1930s living rooms. These architectural elements added a touch of elegance and grandeur to the walls, creating a sense of luxury and sophistication. Wood paneling and molding were often used to create intricate designs, such as wainscoting or picture railings. They were also commonly found in the form of built-in bookshelves or cabinets, adding both functionality and style to the living room walls.10. 1930s Living Room Walls with Wood Paneling and Molding
10. 1930s living room walls with wood paneling and molding
The Importance of Wall Coverings in 1930s Living Rooms
The Rise of Wallpaper
During the 1930s, wall coverings became an essential part of interior design in living rooms.
Wallpaper
in particular gained popularity in this decade, with a wide range of styles and patterns available. It was seen as a cost-effective way to add color, texture, and personality to a room.
Art Deco
and geometric designs were especially popular, reflecting the modern and streamlined aesthetic of the era.
Function and Form
Aside from their decorative purposes, wall coverings in 1930s living rooms also served functional purposes.
Wallpaper
was often used to cover up imperfections on walls, as plaster was a common building material at the time and was prone to cracking. Additionally, it provided insulation and helped to absorb noise, creating a more comfortable and peaceful living space.
Materials and Techniques
The materials and techniques used to create wallpaper in the 1930s were a reflection of the time's technological advancements.
Machine-printed
wallpapers became more popular, replacing the labor-intensive process of hand-painted designs.
Flocked
wallpapers, which featured a raised velvet-like pattern, also gained popularity during this decade. In terms of materials,
vinyl
and
foil
wallpapers were introduced, providing a more durable and washable option for high-traffic areas.
Complementary Elements
In addition to wallpaper, other wall coverings were also commonly used in 1930s living rooms.
Wood paneling
, often in a dark stain, was a popular choice for a more traditional and elegant look.
Tile
was also used, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens, adding a touch of sophistication to these spaces. These complementary elements were often paired with wallpaper to create a cohesive and well-designed room.
In summary, the walls of 1930s living rooms were not just a blank canvas, but rather an opportunity to showcase style, functionality, and innovation. The use of wallpaper, as well as other wall coverings, played a crucial role in the overall design of these spaces, adding charm and character to the homes of this era.
