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 the UK 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, influencing the fabric of British interior design today.

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. 

At the same time, stained glass and wrought iron brought a sense of movement and elegance to architectural spaces across the UK, especially in the work of designers like Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

In contrast, the Arts & Crafts movement, which gained traction in Britain during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emerged as a response to the rapid industrialisation of the period. Championing a return to traditional craftsmanship, this movement embraced the beauty of the handmade, 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, most notably in the work of William Morris and the influential Guild of Handicraft.

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, though their influence also reached British designers who embraced 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.

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.

British designers such as Clarice Cliff and Sir Edwin Lutyens contributed to this movement, blending modern materials with exquisite detailing to craft environments that were both bold and refined, showcasing the evolving tastes of the post-war period.

As the UK began to rebuild after the devastation of World War II, the 40s and 50s ushered in a new era of design—one that prioritised practicality, comfort, and a connection to nature. Mid-century modernism emerged as the defining aesthetic of the post-war period, characterised by streamlined silhouettes, open spaces, and an emphasis on functionality, marking a pivotal moment in the history of interior design.

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.

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 experiencing a strong revival today, with its lively, retro style seamlessly woven into contemporary UK interiors.

The 80s saw a return to excess and grandeur in the history of interior design. Bold colours, oversized furniture, and decadent materials reigned supreme, as interiors embraced the influence of wealth and high fashion. 

British homes reflected this opulence with plush carpets, chintz fabrics, and brass fixtures, while designer brands, including Laura Ashley and Ralph Lauren, extended their influence into home interiors. Statement pieces such as glass dining tables, swag curtains, and lacquered finishes added to the era’s lavish aesthetic.

In stark contrast, the 90s saw the rise of minimalism, inspired by Scandinavian and Japanese design philosophies. This shift was particularly evident in urban apartments and contemporary suburban homes in the UK, where sleek, modern kitchens and open-plan living spaces became more desirable. 

Neutral tones, simple furnishings, and built-in storage reflected the decade’s emphasis on functionality and simplicity. Advances in lighting and home technology subtly shaped interiors, while influences from the high street made modern design more accessible to British homeowners.

The early 2000s marked a shift in the history of interior design in the UK, with the blending of contemporary, vintage, and rustic influences to create highly personalised spaces. The rise of DIY culture and custom furniture gave homeowners greater creative freedom, 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.

As we navigate the 2020s, sustainability and wellness have become the guiding principles of interior design. Eco-conscious choices are no longer a niche concern but a mainstream priority, shaping the materials and methods used in creating living and working spaces. 

In the UK, rising energy costs have led to a stronger focus on energy-efficient design, with features like smart heating systems, triple glazing, and improved insulation becoming essential considerations. 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 we use our homes, with multifunctional spaces becoming the new standard. With more people working remotely, the demand for well-designed home offices has surged, alongside a preference for flexible layouts that can adapt to changing needs. 

Concepts like ‘hygge’ and slow living have gained popularity, promoting warmth, cosiness, and a deeper connection to our surroundings.

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 is a story of transformation, influenced by cultural shifts, technological advancements, and the evolving needs of society. Looking forward, UK homes will continue to balance heritage with modern innovation, prioritising energy efficiency, sustainability, and adaptable living spaces that enhance well-being.

Want to learn more about these influential design movements? Read our blogs:

Our Top Predicted UK Interior Design Trends 2025

Inside the Impressive Comeback of 70s Interior Design

7 Art Deco Bathroom Ideas for the Modern Home

How To Style A Mid-Century Modern Kitchen