100 Years of Style: Explore the History of Interior Design
Interior design is more than just the arrangement of furniture or the selection of colour palettes—it’s a reflection of the times, a mirror to the shifting landscapes of culture, technology, and society. Over the past century, the history of interior design in Australia has been a journey through artistic expression, innovation, and lifestyle transformation.
Each era has left its indelible mark, shaping the way we experience our homes, workplaces, and communal spaces. From the handcrafted beauty of the Arts & Crafts movement to the sleek minimalism of modern design, every decade has contributed to a living tapestry of style, functionality, and personal expression, reflecting Australia’s unique culture, environment, and sense of identity.
Early 20th Century | Art Nouveau, Arts & Crafts, & the Birth of Modernism
At the dawn of the 20th century, the history of interior design was shaped by a delicate balance of nature and artistry. Art Nouveau, flourishing from the 1890s to the 1910s, embraced sinuous lines, floral motifs, and organic forms. Interiors felt fluid and dynamic, with decorative details mimicking the curves of vines and waves, while stained glass and wrought iron brought a sense of movement and elegance to architectural spaces.
In contrast, the Arts & Crafts movement, emerging in response to the rapid industrialisation of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, championed a return to traditional craftsmanship. Rejecting mass production, this movement embraced handmade beauty, with natural materials such as wood and stone taking centre stage. Furniture was simple yet sturdy, and every object in the home was crafted with intention, blending utility with artistry.
As the world hurtled towards modernity, a radical shift in design philosophy took place. The early 1900s saw the rise of Modernism, a stark departure from ornate styles in favour of clean lines, geometric forms, and functionality.
Architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Walter Gropius led the movement, embracing new materials and industrial processes to create uncluttered, efficient spaces. In a time of immense social change, design reflected a world shedding the excess of the past in favour of innovation and simplicity.
1920s–30s | The Glamour of Art Deco
The 1920s and 30s were a celebration of luxury and modernity, ushering in the bold and sophisticated style of Art Deco, a key chapter in the history of interior design. This movement, which emerged in the wake of World War I, reflected the optimism and exuberance of the era.
Interiors were lavish yet sleek, adorned with gleaming chrome fixtures, polished glass, and opulent lacquer finishes. Geometric patterns and symmetrical designs became defining features, capturing the dynamic energy of the Jazz Age.
The Art Deco aesthetic was a testament to craftsmanship and indulgence, with rich jewel tones, inlaid woods, and metallic accents creating a sense of glamour and drama. Mass production made luxury more accessible, and spaces were transformed into expressions of confidence and prosperity.
European designers such as René Lalique and Jean-Michel Frank elevated interiors to works of art, blending modern materials with exquisite detailing to create environments that exuded elegance and style. In Australia, Art Deco flourished in major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, transforming theatres, hotels, and private residences into elegant works of art.
1940s–50s | Mid-Century Modernism & Post-War Design
As the world recovered from the devastation of World War II, the 1940s and 1950s marked a new era of design in Australia and New Zealand — one that prioritised practicality, comfort, and a closer connection to the natural environment.
Mid-century modernism emerged as the defining aesthetic of the post-war period, featuring streamlined silhouettes, open-plan spaces, and an emphasis on functionality. This shift in design remains a significant moment in the history of interior design across the Pacific.
Using new materials like plywood, fibreglass, and aluminium allowed for innovative forms and lightweight, versatile furniture. Large windows and open-plan layouts blurred the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living, creating airy and inviting spaces.
Iconic designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, and George Nelson revolutionised furniture design, crafting sculptural yet functional pieces. The era's optimism was reflected in these interiors — spaces were designed to be lived in, with a focus on simplicity, warmth, and effortless style.
1960s–70s | Expression & Eclecticism
The swinging 60s brought a burst of creativity and rebellion, with interior design reflecting the energy of the counterculture movement. Psychedelic colours, bold patterns, and pop art influences turned homes into playful expressions of individuality. The optimism of the Space Race seeped into design, bringing futuristic materials, curvilinear forms, and a fascination with the unknown.
By the 70s, a shift towards earthy, bohemian aesthetics took hold, particularly in the wake of the environmental movement. Shag carpets, macramé wall hangings, and rattan furniture infused interiors with warmth and texture, while deep, earthy tones created an atmosphere of relaxed comfort.
There was a growing appreciation for handcrafted and sustainable materials as the environmental movement gained momentum. Homes became layered and eclectic, blending vintage finds with personal mementos, celebrating imperfection and self-expression.
70s interior design is making a strong comeback today, with its lively, retro style seamlessly woven into modern Australian interiors.
1980s–90s | Opulence & Minimalism
The 80s saw a return to excess and grandeur in the history of interior design. In Australia, this era was marked by bold colours, large leather lounges, and glossy surfaces, reflecting a desire for luxury and modernity.
Designer brands such as Versace and Ralph Lauren influenced high-end interiors, while tropical-inspired aesthetics—palm prints, rattan furniture, and pastel tones—became popular in many coastal homes. Large entertainment units, tiled floors, and mirrored walls also defined the era, creating interiors that embraced both extravagance and practicality.
By the 90s, minimalism took hold, driven by a shift towards open-plan living and a connection to the outdoors. Inspired by Scandinavian and Japanese design principles, Australian homes favoured clean lines, natural materials, and neutral palettes. Large windows, open spaces, and built-in storage reflected a preference for simplicity and functionality.
The rise of new technologies, including energy-efficient lighting and home automation, subtly shaped interiors as Australian designers increasingly embraced sustainable and locally sourced materials.
2000s-10s | Eclectic & Sustainable Design
The early 2000s marked a shift in the history of interior design in Australia, as contemporary, vintage, and rustic influences blended to create highly personalised spaces. The rise of DIY culture, fuelled by home improvement shows and online inspiration, empowered homeowners to take a hands-on approach, making interior design more accessible and individualistic than ever before.
By the 2010s, sustainability emerged as a key focus, with eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and an emphasis on recycling taking centre stage. Biophilic principles encouraged a stronger connection between indoor spaces and nature, with natural materials, indoor plants, and organic textures becoming increasingly popular.
Smart home technology also became a defining feature of the era, with automation and wireless devices seamlessly integrated into daily living.
2020s | Contemporary Trends & the Future of Interior Design
As we navigate the 2020s, sustainability and wellness have become defining principles in Australian interior design. Eco-conscious choices are no longer a niche concern but a mainstream priority, with solar power, passive design principles, and energy-efficient materials shaping the way homes are built and renovated.
The rise of smart homes continues, with voice-controlled systems, automated lighting, and AI-driven appliances enhancing convenience and efficiency.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped how Australians use their homes, with a growing demand for multifunctional spaces. Indoor-outdoor living remains central to home design, with large sliding doors, alfresco dining areas, and natural ventilation creating seamless connections between the indoors and nature. A shift towards biophilic design has also gained momentum, incorporating natural materials, indoor plants, and earthy colour palettes to promote tranquillity and wellbeing.
As digital life accelerates, many are finding comfort in nostalgia. This renewed appreciation for simpler times has found its way into interiors, with vintage-inspired decor creating spaces that feel grounding, sentimental, and familiar.
The history of interior design reflects ever-changing lifestyles, technology, and cultural influences. Looking ahead, Australian homes will continue to embrace sustainability, innovation, and a lifestyle-driven approach to design—where functionality, comfort, and environmental consciousness go hand in hand.
Want to learn more about these influential design movements? Read our blogs:
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