Today’s post is dedicated to the painted border. Yes, I’m talking about borders, which have been in “outdated” territory for years, thanks to a variety of country-themed designs involving ducks and floral motifs. But I’m here to say that the border is back! Especially since interior styling photos from the 1980s reveal that there WAS such a thing as a tasteful modern border, especially when paint was used to create a simple, striking design…
The two photos above come to us from the September 1986 issue of Metropolitan Home, which I recently ordered from Etsy shop The Archaic Ad collection. This Los Angeles home of artist Annie Kelly and photographer Tim Street-Porter features waist-high painted touches in wave and zigzag patterns. Fun facts: the living room at the top of the post showcases plaster shell tables found at a garage sale, a Mexican wrought-iron coffee table with gold leaf legs, and a 1930s sofa re-upholstered in blue leather and cowhide. All of these details bring out the bungalow’s Southwestern vibe.
Ready to be wowed?! Next we see Thierry Mugler’s Paris apartment in photos from The New York Times Book of Home Design and Decoration (1981) via Keehnan Konyha (above) and drydockshop (below). The painted details seem to be the work of Keso Dekker. The borders have an edgy yet timeless look, thanks to geometric motifs and interesting color combinations.
There’s something kind of magical about today’s featured spaces. Dreamy. Sculptural. What kind of decor would work in a room with a geometric painted border? A variety of accents, from architectural pieces to Memphis-Milano and New Memphis finds. Below you’ll find a few photos for inspiration:
I’m thinking of decorating a room in my home in this very style, so I’ve started a Pinterest board with some ideas. It’s in the beginning stages, but I’ll be updating it in the weeks to come. What I love about today’s featured spaces is their complexity. Yet there’s a simplicity too. And a dose of whimsy. Now I just have to decide on a painted border design…maybe the radiant work of Dominique Petrin can inspire me. Thanks for reading!
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