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Writer's pictureIrénée Sara Lykke

Memphis design interior: playful and eclectic


Memphis design is a style of interior design that emerged in the 1980s and was named after the Italian design group, Memphis. It is characterized by its bright and bold colors, geometric shapes, and playful patterns. Memphis design is all about breaking traditional design rules and creating a sense of fun and playfulness in the space.


One of the key features of Memphis design is its use of bright, bold colors. This can include neon pinks, blues, and yellows, as well as primary colors like red, blue, and yellow. These colors are often used in combination to create a vibrant and energetic space.


One of the most distinctive features of Memphis design is its use of clashing patterns and colors. This creates a sense of visual tension that is both playful and unexpected. Memphis designers often combined contrasting materials and textures, such as smooth plastic with rough concrete, to create a sense of visual interest.


Furniture and decorative objects in Memphis design often feature whimsical shapes and unexpected details. For example, a chair might have an asymmetrical backrest or an unusual base. Lighting fixtures may have multiple arms or a complex geometric shape. Decorative objects such as vases or clocks may have a quirky, sculptural quality.


Another feature of Memphis design is its use of geometric shapes. These can be seen in furniture, accessories, and even wall and floor coverings. Triangles, circles, and squares are common shapes used in Memphis design, and they are often used in bold patterns and arrangements.


Memphis design is also known for its use of asymmetrical shapes and arrangements. Furniture and accessories are often placed at odd angles or in unexpected ways, creating a sense of movement and energy in the space. This can also extend to the use of abstract or distorted shapes, which add to the overall playful and eclectic feel of the design.


Another key feature of Memphis design is the use of unusual materials and textures. This can include anything from high-gloss finishes to matte surfaces, and from plastic and metal to more traditional materials like wood and fabric. This use of unconventional materials is intended to add a sense of excitement and energy to the design.


Memphis design is also known for its use of pattern, particularly bold, graphic patterns that often incorporate stripes, checks, and zig-zags. These patterns can be found on everything from furniture to wallpaper to textiles, and are an essential part of the Memphis design aesthetic.


Overall, Memphis design is a style that is all about having fun with design and breaking traditional rules. It is bold, bright, and playful, and is a great way to add a sense of energy and excitement to any space.

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