Memphis Style Mania: 80s-Inspired Quirky Decor

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The 1980s were a time of vibrant creativity and bold expression in design. One of the most iconic and enduring styles to emerge from this era is the Memphis style, named after the Italian design group founded by Ettore Sottsass in 1981. This style is characterized by its use of bright colors, geometric shapes, and eclectic influences from various design movements. In this article, we will delve into the world of Memphis style decor and explore how it can be incorporated into your home with a touch of 80s flair.

The Birth of Memphis Style

The Memphis Group was an Italian design collective that sought to challenge traditional notions of design by embracing the unconventional and the playful. Founded by Ettore Sottsass, a renowned architect and designer, the group included other notable designers such as Nathalie du Pasquier, Martine Bedin, and Michele de Lucchi. Their work was showcased at the 1981 Salone del Mobile in Milan, which marked the beginning of their journey into the spotlight.

The name "Memphis" was inspired by a Bob Dylan song that had been played repeatedly during a meeting where the group was formed. This name encapsulated their desire to break free from the constraints of modern design and create something new and exciting.

Key Elements of Memphis Style

1. Colorful Geometric Shapes

   • One of the defining features of Memphis style is its use of bright, bold colors. These colors are often paired with geometric shapes that add an element of playfulness to the design. From triangles and squares to circles and zigzags, these shapes are used in furniture, fabrics, ceramics, and even metal objects.

2. Ephemeral Design

   • Memphis designs often incorporate ephemeral elements that are meant to be fleeting or temporary. This approach adds a sense of dynamism and unpredictability to the design, making it more engaging and interesting.

3. Eclectic Influences

   • The Memphis Group drew inspiration from various design movements such as Art Deco and Pop Art. They also incorporated elements from earlier styles like 1950s Kitsch and futuristic themes. This eclectic approach ensures that Memphis designs are never dull or monotonous.

4. Asymmetrical Shapes

   • Asymmetrical shapes are another hallmark of Memphis style. These shapes often appear arbitrarily in designs, adding an element of surprise and whimsy.

5. Plastic Laminate

   • Many Memphis designs feature plastic laminate as a primary material. This choice was deliberate; it allowed designers to create bold, colorful patterns that could be mass-produced without compromising on quality.

Incorporating Memphis Style into Your Home

Incorporating Memphis style into your home can be both fun and challenging. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Start with Furniture

• Begin by selecting furniture pieces that reflect the geometric and colorful nature of Memphis style. Look for items like sideboards with bold patterns or chairs with asymmetrical shapes.

• For example, the Mid Century sideboard inspired by Memphis style and eighties vibes is a great starting point. These sideboards often feature colorful geometric patterns that can add a pop of color to any room.

2. Add Fabrics and Textiles

• Fabrics play a crucial role in bringing the Memphis style into your home decor. Look for fabrics with vibrant colors and geometric patterns.

• Spoonflower offers a wide range of funny 80s fabrics by the yard, wallpapers, and home decor items with hundreds of amazing patterns created by indie makers all over the world. These fabrics can be used to upholster furniture or create unique wall coverings.

3. Wall Decals and Murals

• Wall decals and murals are another excellent way to introduce Memphis style into your home. Etsy offers a variety of 80s Memphis design selections including wall decals & murals.

• These decals can be applied to any surface, from walls to furniture, adding an instant touch of 80s flair to your decor.

4. Accessories and Accents

• Accessories such as vases, lamps, and decorative items can also be used to enhance the Memphis style in your home.

• Look for items that feature bold colors and geometric shapes. For instance, ceramics with colorful patterns or lamps with asymmetrical bases can add an interesting element to any room.

Real-Life Examples of Memphis Style Decor

To get a better understanding of how Memphis style can be incorporated into real-life decor, let's look at some examples from recent decorating projects:

Postmodern 80's Aesthetics

In 2022, a Reddit user shared their recently completed decorating project with a heavy influence from Postmodern 80's aesthetics, particularly Memphis Milano. The space featured a mix of vintage and new IKEA pieces, including a limited edition rug called MAKERAD which was launched in collaboration with the late Virgil Abloh.

The room also included a 100-year-old red and blue chair that blended seamlessly into the harmonious whole. The user's love for IKEA and their ability to curate the space tastefully made it stand out as an excellent example of how Memphis style can be incorporated into modern decor.

80s Memphis Design on Etsy

Etsy offers a wide range of 80s Memphis design selections including unique or custom handmade pieces from various sellers. These items range from wall decals & murals to ceramics and other decorative items.

For instance, you could find a vintage-inspired Memphis-style vase with bold geometric patterns or a set of coasters featuring colorful shapes. These items can be used to add an instant touch of 80s flair to any room.

Impact of Memphis Style on Pop Culture

Memphis style has had a significant impact on pop culture over the years. From its appearance in iconic films like "Back to the Future II" to its influence on fashion designers like Christian Dior and Missoni, Memphis style continues to inspire creatives around the world.

In "Back to the Future II," the Cafe '80s in Hill Valley, CA, features furniture and decor that are quintessentially Memphis style. The vibrant colors and geometric shapes used in this setting perfectly encapsulate the essence of this design movement.

Similarly, Memphis style has been featured in various TV shows such as Nickelodeon Studios (1990) and "The Max" from "Saved by the Bell." Even the MTV logo has been influenced by this style, showcasing its widespread impact on visual culture.

Conclusion

Incorporating Memphis style into your home decor can be a fun and rewarding experience. By embracing bold colors, geometric shapes, and eclectic influences from various design movements, you can create a space that is both unique and visually appealing.

Whether you're looking to add a touch of 80s flair or simply want to explore new design possibilities, Memphis style offers endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression. So go ahead—dive into the world of Memphis style mania and let your home become an art piece inspired by the vibrant creativity of the 1980s!

By following these tips and exploring the various elements that define Memphis style, you can create a space that not only reflects your personality but also pays homage to one of the most iconic design movements of the 20th century.