This ’80s Design Trend Has Made a Major Comeback

It’s no secret that the Memphis Design movement has been making a comeback. We’ve seen various iterations of the iconic ’80s design trend within a variety of interiors in the past couple of years, and as of late, it’s certainly gained a lot of traction. The design movement initially began as a counteraction against the streamlined rigidity of modernism – a pattern that’s currently looking to repeat itself. While our admiration for the simplicity that comes with Scandinavian design or the clean-cut finish of a minimalist interior stands strong, we can’t help but embrace the wave of maximalism that’s headed our way. Here, just a few of the ways we’ll be looking to take on the Memphis Design movement. 

 

Who better to take styling cues from than one of the founders of the design movement? Inside Nathalie Du Pasquier’s studio, we find a prime example of the aesthetic at play. A gridded display of eye-catching wall art sets the backdrop for the eclectically decked space. Filtered in within the furnishings are modest color accents in shades of yellows and warm woods. Take some style cues from this studio and create a similar art display in lieu of your current gallery wall. 

Snoozy bookshelves no more! Use washi tape – or if you’re confident with your painting skills, paint works as well – to recreate the design trend’s signature stripes on a whitewashed shelf. Style the shelf with plants, and colorful art and books. 

Start out small. Play around with vibrant color combinations, earmarking them for the more unexpected spots of your home. Line the edges of the door with a pop of yellow or utilize a bright paint to make the window panes of the kitchen stand out. The patterns can come in later!

 

Recreation Center‘s entire approach to classic homeware essentials encompasses the Memphis Design aesthetic with a modern take. Their dynamically charged prints and patterns meld in with the primary color palette often utilized to embrace the trend. Swap a few of these pieces in to change up your current dinnerware rotation. 

 

Photo by Artnau.

Feeling brave? Bring in a wallpaper design that incorporates the trend, and complement the look with decorative accessories of a primary color palette. Test the waters with a temporary print or take the plunge by painting on the patterns yourself!

Consider this a starter piece for incorporating the trend into your existing decor. A subtle pattern play coupled with a blush-toned palette makes for a modest nod towards the trend. Pair the piece with a neutral decor scheme, or go for bold and style it against a deep navy or red sofa!

 

Confetti Throw Pillow, The Land of Nod

Anna Karlin’s fearless aesthetic is a surefire way to embrace the design movement. Her modern interpretation of Memphis Design manages to seamlessly integrate the emblem of maximalism with a mix of bright patterns and colors.

 

Get the look: Pattern C Area Rug, Anna Karlin Furniture + Fine Objects

 

Eric Trine’s and Dusen Dusen’s West Elm collaboration could not have come at a better time. The limited edition line embodies the trend with effortless ease and style, managing to incorporate bold pattern with color. Here’s your opportunity to create a more summer-friendly space, outdoors.