The 1960s was a time of great change and upheaval, both in society and in the world of design. The decade saw the rise of new materials, new technologies, and new ideas about how people should live. This was reflected in the furniture of the era, which was often bold, colorful, and experimental. Today, 1960s design is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Many contemporary interior designers are looking to the past for inspiration, and 1960s bedside tables are a particularly hot trend. In this article, we will explore 20 design ideas for 1960s bedside tables, focusing on color combinations, design styles, and the latest trends in the US and EU.
Geometric Shapes and Bold Lines
The 1960s was a time of experimentation with geometric shapes and bold lines. This is reflected in the design of many 1960s bedside tables, which often feature sharp angles, simple forms, and geometric patterns. One popular trend in both the US and EU is to use black and white as the primary colors, accented with pops of bright orange or yellow. This creates a striking contrast that is both modern and retro. Materials like lacquered wood or metal are frequently used to create a sleek and sophisticated look.
Mid-Century Modern Minimalism
The Mid-Century Modern movement was at its peak in the 1960s, and its influence can be seen in many 1960s bedside tables. This style emphasizes clean lines, simple forms, and natural materials. Oak, walnut, and teak were popular choices for bedside tables, and many pieces were finished with a natural oil or wax to highlight the beauty of the wood grain. In the US, a popular style is the “Danish Modern” look, featuring minimalist designs and a focus on functionality. In Europe, designers often incorporate elements of Scandinavian design, using light colors and natural materials.
Space Age Futurism
The space race of the 1960s had a significant impact on design, and many 1960s bedside tables feature futuristic elements. These tables often have a sleek, aerodynamic shape and are made from materials like chrome, plastic, or acrylic. Bold colors like silver, red, or orange are often used to create a futuristic look. One popular trend is to use a single, large, geometric shape, like a sphere or a cube, as the base for the table. This creates a bold and eye-catching statement piece that is sure to stand out in any bedroom.
Groovy Color Combinations
The 1960s were all about color and pattern. Psychedelic colors and bold geometric patterns were popular choices for clothing, furniture, and interior design. For bedside tables, this translates to using bright colors and geometric shapes to create a fun and playful atmosphere. Some popular color combinations include orange and green, purple and yellow, or pink and blue. These combinations are sure to add a touch of personality to any bedroom.
The Glamour of Retro Glamour
The 1960s were also a time of great glamour, and this is reflected in the design of many 1960s bedside tables. These tables often feature luxurious materials like velvet, leather, or brass. Gold, silver, and metallic finishes are also popular choices. One popular trend is to use a combination of materials, such as a velvet tabletop with brass legs. This creates a luxurious and eye-catching look.
Rustic Charm with Vintage Wood
While some 1960s bedside tables were sleek and modern, others had a more rustic charm. These tables were often made from reclaimed wood, such as oak, pine, or walnut. They were frequently left with a natural finish, allowing the wood grain to show through. In the US, this style is often seen in bedrooms with a farmhouse aesthetic. In Europe, designers often incorporate reclaimed wood into a more modern setting, pairing it with metal accents or minimalist decor. This creates a unique and eclectic look.
The Appeal of Hand-Crafted Designs
The 1960s saw a rise in interest in handcrafted furniture. This was partly due to the counterculture movement, which celebrated individuality and creativity. Many 1960s bedside tables were made by individual artisans, and they often featured unique details and patterns. This trend is still popular today, with many people looking for handcrafted furniture that is both stylish and unique. This can be found in both the US and EU, with many designers focusing on local materials and artisanal techniques.
Simple Elegance with Walnut and Brass
Walnut is a classic wood that has been used in furniture design for centuries. In the 1960s, walnut became particularly popular for bedside tables, thanks to its rich color and beautiful grain pattern. Brass was also a popular material for 1960s furniture, and it often complemented walnut perfectly. The warm tones of walnut and brass create a timeless and elegant look that is both inviting and sophisticated. This combination is still popular today in both the US and EU, particularly for those seeking a more traditional yet stylish bedroom design.
The Intricacy of Inlaid Designs
Inlaid designs were a popular feature of 1960s furniture, and they can add a touch of sophistication to a bedside table. This technique involves using different materials, such as wood, metal, or stone, to create patterns and designs. The most common inlay materials in the 1960s were wood and metal. Wood inlay was often used to create geometric patterns or floral motifs. Metal inlay was often used to add accents or details to the table’s surface. Inlaid designs can be found on both modern and traditional bedside tables, creating a unique and eye-catching focal point.
Pops of Pattern with Geometric Prints
Geometric patterns were another popular feature of 1960s furniture. These patterns were often used to create a sense of movement and energy. Common geometric patterns used in the 1960s included squares, circles, and triangles. These patterns were often combined with bold colors to create a truly eye-catching look. Geometric patterns are still popular today, and they can be used to add a touch of vintage flair to a modern bedroom. In both the US and EU, many designers use geometric prints in fabrics, wallpaper, and even furniture to create a dynamic and playful atmosphere.
The Charm of Vintage Hardware
Vintage hardware can add a touch of personality to a 1960s bedside table. The 1960s was a time of experimentation with hardware, and many unique designs were created. Common types of vintage hardware include brass knobs, chrome handles, and geometric pulls. These pieces can be found at antique stores, flea markets, and online retailers. Using vintage hardware can give a 1960s bedside table a more authentic look, while adding a touch of history and character.
Vintage Lighting for Added Ambiance
A 1960s bedside table can be completed with a vintage lamp. The 1960s saw a rise in interest in modern lighting, and many unique lamp designs were created. Common types of vintage lamps include mushroom lamps, globe lamps, and torch lamps. These lamps can be found at antique stores, flea markets, and online retailers. Pairing a vintage lamp with a 1960s bedside table can create a cohesive and stylish look.
The Art of Creative Upcycling
Upcycling is a popular trend in the US and EU, and it can be used to give a 1960s bedside table a new lease on life. Upcycling involves taking an old or discarded object and transforming it into something new and useful. For example, an old wooden crate could be upcycled into a bedside table. This can be achieved by adding new legs, a drawer, or a tabletop. Upcycling is a great way to create a unique and personalized piece of furniture while also reducing waste.
The Versatility of Multi-Functional Designs
The 1960s saw a rise in interest in multi-functional furniture. This was partly due to the growing popularity of small-space living. Multi-functional bedside tables can serve as a nightstand, a storage unit, and even a desk. For example, a bedside table with a pull-out drawer could be used to store books, magazines, and other essentials. Multi-functional bedside tables are a great way to save space in a bedroom while also adding style.
The Comfort of Upholstered Designs
Upholstered bedside tables can add a touch of comfort and luxury to a bedroom. The 1960s saw a rise in the popularity of upholstered furniture, and many bedside tables were upholstered with velvet, leather, or fabric. Upholstered bedside tables can be a great way to add color, texture, and personality to a bedroom. They can also be a great way to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The Modern Touch of Metallic Accents
Metallic accents can add a touch of modern flair to a 1960s bedside table. Metallic finishes, such as gold, silver, and brass, were popular in the 1960s, and they are still a popular choice today. Metallic accents can be used to highlight the design of a bedside table, or they can be used to create a contrast against a wood or fabric finish. This approach can create a stunning look that is both retro and contemporary.
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