Pop Art Style Interior Design Ideas and Photos of the best interiors for your inspiration
The pop art style in interior design is synonymous with "eccentric" and "outrageous," thanks to its vibrant hues and iconic posters. It appeals to the young, daring, creative, and those who crave experimentation.
A Brief History of the Style
Emerging in the 1960s as a response to conservatism and classics, pop art initially revolutionized painting and later extended its influence to photography, sculpture, fashion, and interior design. The abbreviation "pop" stands for "popular art," with artist Andy Warhol at the helm of this movement. One of Warhol's most famous works, featuring multiple superimposed images of Marilyn Monroe, captured the essence of pop art. This technique, known as silkscreen, still adorns interiors to this day.
Features of Pop Art Style
Pop art is based on the ideology of consumption and employs inexpensive materials, such as plastic, glass, metal, and paper. It is the most budget-friendly style, offering a vibrant and stylish interior at minimal cost.
Characterized by flashy colors, unusual object appearances, media personality posters, newspaper column wallpapers, and minimalistic decor, pop art exudes a retro vibe reminiscent of the 1980s. The style's heyday coincided with the rise of the retro movement, but pop art stands out for its unmatched creativity.
Color Palette
The motto of pop art is combining the incongruous. Think rich shades of red, green, yellow, orange, and blue. The brighter, the more shocking the interior becomes. However, to avoid overwhelming the space, it is crucial to strike a balance with a calm neutral base. The classic trio of white, gray, and black dominates the background, while furniture and decor provide a splash of vibrant hues.
Designers recommend using two or three colors for the walls, floor, and ceiling, reserving the boldness for the decor elements.
Lines and Shapes
Pop art embraces modernity and prefers straight, clear lines, occasionally with rounded edges. Ornate curves and smoother Art Nouveau aesthetics are not typical of this style.
However, pop art is known for its audaciousness, so don't shy away from geometrically shaped sofas that resemble poufs or vases shaped like a statue's head. Original and eye-catching pieces find their place in pop art interiors.
Room Layout
Spacious rooms with various niches, zones, and levels allow for better emphasis on the pop art style. These features create an ideal canvas for showcasing the uniqueness of this design.
Walls
For wall finishes, monotone options are common. Choose to paint, plaster, or wallpaper the walls. There are countless affordable options available, such as paper, non-woven, and vinyl wallpapers. The material's density should suit the room's purpose; for instance, opt for a coating resistant to temperature changes and humidity in the kitchen.
Consider highlighting one wall with graffiti or wallpaper featuring advertising frames, bright color portraits of celebrities, or comic book heroes. Another interesting option is wallpaper with optical illusions that change or disappear at different angles.
Plasterboard panels are gaining popularity due to their easy installation, ability to insulate the room, dampen noise, and hide surface imperfections.
Windows and Curtains
Expanding windows or adding arches is unnecessary in pop art interiors, although giving them a mirror-like shine can enhance their appeal.
Curtains should not steal the spotlight, as they are part of the background. Opt for Roman curtains, shutters, or blinds in light colors.
Ceilings
Ceilings can be quickly and affordably finished with plaster or paint. Stretch, suspended, or multi-level options also work well, especially for zoning the room. However, it's advisable to avoid creating beams and steps throughout the entire ceiling surface.
The most common choice for pop art ceilings is white, whether matte or glossy. This part of the room serves as a backdrop for furniture, decor, and ornamentation.
Flooring
In pop art interiors, floors are typically not the focal point, but exceptions can be made. Depending on your idea, consider colored ceramic tiles that smoothly transition to the wall, mosaic tiles, or similar floor ornaments.
For a budget-friendly option, opt for light-colored linoleum or laminate with a glossy finish. Self-leveling floors offer higher durability, and designers recommend a pleasant glossy sheen. Choose between plain or painted options based on your preferences.
Doors
Pop art doors, much like windows, don't require elaborate transformations or arches. Simple models with or without a straight frame are suitable. Paint the doors and frames in a contrasting or light color that blends with the walls. Doors with colored matte glass inserts add a touch of originality.
Lighting
Artificial lighting in pop art interiors is implemented in a point-to-point manner. A central chandelier, table lamps, sconces, and floor lamps can be strategically placed. Lampshades should be painted, plain, but without fringe or embroidery. Unusual neon lights are also welcomed, with preference given to plastic and glass models. Handcrafted lamps made from old vinyl records or discs add a unique touch to the interior.
Mirrors
Mirrors play a crucial role in visually expanding the room. Opt for metal frames in round, oval, or square shapes, or choose frameless options. Forged and intricately carved mirrors are not recommended.
Furniture
Pop art appreciates free space, making built-in wardrobes or separate dressing rooms ideal storage solutions. Glass coffee tables with metal or wooden legs are common in this style.
Upholstered furniture in pop art interiors comes in various colors and shapes; however, clear lines are a must. The upholstery material is not the focal point; instead, focus on choosing vibrant colors and original designs. Frameless models also add an interesting touch to the space.
Textiles
Fabrics bring warmth and coziness to pop art interiors. Consider using ethnic patterned carpets, decorative sofa cushions, and interesting bed linens. Upholstered furniture can feature contrasting prints or intriguing images. Natural or synthetic fabrics, including leather and eco-leather, can be used depending on personal preferences. Pop art interiors feature limited textile elements, so it's crucial to plan ahead.
Decor
Pop art decor often consists of posters, paintings featuring advertising, cartoon characters, unusual vases, and figurines. Accessories should be bright, eye-catching, and captivating – enhancing the eccentricity of the interior.
Distorted color rendering is also popular in pop art, turning any picture or photo into a masterpiece and a focal point in the interior.
Pop Art Style in Different Rooms
Designers recommend starting with one room when experimenting with the pop art style, rather than implementing it throughout the entire apartment.
Living Room
An integral part of a pop art living room is a comfortable sofa with a rich-colored bedspread and several pillows. Keep old glossy magazines on the coffee table, and perhaps add a couple of original glasses. Hang shelves to display handmade figurines and ornaments on the walls. Consider decorating one wall with discs or vinyl records for a unique touch.
Kitchen and Dining Room
Opt for a bright-colored kitchen set, such as yellow, green, or purple. Instead of a traditional dining table, install a bar counter. Spot lighting and brightly colored lamps or plafonds can further enhance the space.
Bedroom and Nursery
Bedrooms and nurseries in pop art style prioritize rest and relaxation, opting for soft, muted shades on the walls, floor, and ceiling. Unobtrusive repeating patterns work well as ornaments.
Bathroom
Pop art bathrooms feature bright ceramic tiles in various shades, repeating patterns, or mosaics. Modern plumbing and faucets with a glossy chrome finish add a contemporary touch. For a unique twist, choose a colored bathtub, such as blue, pink, or orange, and complement it with vibrant colors throughout the room.
Pop art is a bold and eccentric style that embodies dynamism, brightness, and saturation. When designing a room or apartment in pop art style, it's crucial to carefully consider color combinations to strike the right balance. This style is ideal for dreamers and those who love experimenting with their living spaces.
