Tuesday 28 August 2012

80s colour blocking is back!


Colour blocking rooms in an 80s style involves using bold, contrasting colours in geometric patterns to create a vibrant and dynamic look. 


Here's how to achieve this iconic retro aesthetic:



1. CHOOSE YOUR COLOUR PALETTE


The 80s were known for bold and bright colours. 


Consider the following hues:


  • Primary Colours: Red, blue, yellow.
  • Neon Colours: Hot pink, electric blue, neon green, bright orange.
  • Pastels: Soft pinks, mint green, lavender.





2. DEFINE THE SPACE


Decide which areas of the room you want to colour block. 


Common options include:


  • Walls: Use different colours on different walls or create large geometric shapes.
  • Furniture: Paint or reupholster chairs, tables, and other furniture in bold colours.
  • Accessories: Choose lamps, rugs, and artwork that match your colour scheme.



3. GEOMETRIC PATTERNS


The 80s were all about sharp angles and geometric shapes. Some ideas include:


  • Stripes: Vertical or horizontal stripes in contrasting colours.
  • Triangles and Squares: Paint large triangles or squares on the walls in different colours.

  • Checkerboard Patterns: Use contrasting colours for a bold statement.



4. ACCENT WALLS


Create an accent wall with a bold, single colour or a combination of geometric patterns. 


This draws the eye and becomes a focal point of the room.




5. FURNITURE AND DECOR


Incorporate 80s-style furniture and decor:


  • Bold Sofas and Chairs: Look for furniture in bright, solid colours.
  • Decorative Items: Use items like neon clocks, abstract art, and geometric-patterned rugs.



6. TEXTURES AND MATERIALS


Mix and match different textures to add depth:


  • Glossy Finishes: Use glossy paints for a shiny, vibrant look.
  • Metallics: Incorporate metallic accents like chrome or gold.



7. LIGHTING


Choose lighting that complements the 80s style:


  • Neon Lights: Neon signs or lights add an authentic 80s vibe.
  • Geometric Lamps: Look for lamps with bold, geometric shapes.



8. TEXTILES


Use textiles to enhance the colour blocking:


  • Bold Curtains: Choose curtains in solid, bright colours.
  • Patterned Cushions: Use cushions with geometric patterns and contrasting colours.


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BY ROOM:



LIVING ROOM:


Walls: Paint one wall electric blue, another bright pink, and use a checkerboard pattern of black and white on a third wall.


Couch: Choose a neon green sofa with hot pink cushions.


Rug: Use a bold geometric patterned rug with a mix of primary colours.


Art: Hang abstract art pieces featuring neon colours and geometric shapes.




BEDROOM:


Walls: Paint one wall lavender, another mint green, and use a striped pattern on a third wall with yellow and purple.


Bedspread: Choose a bedspread in a bright, solid colour like hot pink.


Lamps: Use geometric-shaped lamps in contrasting colours like red and blue.

By combining these elements, you can create a room that captures the vibrant, eclectic essence of the 80s.


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PRACTICAL TIPS:


Balance: While the 80s were known for bold designs, it's important to balance the use of bright colours to avoid overwhelming the space.


Test Colours: Before committing, test your colour choices on small wall sections or with samples to ensure they achieve the desired effect.


Mix Textures: Incorporate different textures along with your colour blocks to add depth and interest to the space.


By using these guidelines you can effectively create an 80s-inspired colour-blocked room that captures the vibrant and dynamic essence of the decade.


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While every effort has been made to check the accuracy of this article, readers should always make their own checks.  

The Author does not accept any responsibility for misstatements made or any misunderstandings arising from it.
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