Memphis Interior Design Ideas & Inspiration

No, not Memphis, Tennessee. The Memphis design movement will be instantly familiar to anyone who was born during the 1980s or 1990s — and instantly memorable wherever it’s used! Chances are, if you remember the opening credits of TV sitcom Saved By the Bell, you’ll immediately get a striking example of Memphis design. Bright, geometric, and heavily stylized, the Memphis interior design style might not be to everyone’s taste; but for fans, this iconic movement is a timeless source of inspiration. 

That’s great news for people who love the style since the Memphis design trend is one of the hottest looks in home interiors right now. Keep reading to learn about the characteristics of Memphis design, and get some ideas for incorporating it into your home or apartment.

What Are the Features of Memphis Design?

While art and design styles tend to overlap, there’s no mistaking the Memphis look for anything else! Memphis design characteristics are unique and impossible to confuse with other interior design styles (which definitely makes shopping easy). But what, exactly, is Memphis design? Here are a few key elements to look for: 

• Mixed Patterns — Memphis design is heavy on patterns, which usually mix geometric shapes (such as grids, triangles, or squares) with whimsical organic forms (like squiggles or spirals). Memphis design patterns can be incorporated into wallpaper, furniture upholstery, or even accessories like planters and coffee mugs! 

• Vivid Colors — Typical “Memphis colors” are bright, even electric. Usually, a handful of colors are balanced against a white or black background, or a repeating black or white element. Look for colors like yellow, hot pink, aquamarine, acid green, purple, and cherry red.

Design Idea #1: Patterned Wallpaper

It’s impossible to separate the Memphis design style from the unique, colorful patterns that give the style its foundation. But unless you’re a professional artist, it’s also impossible to recreate Memphis patterns by hand. The solution? Patterned wallpaper, which can be customized and ordered online. 

Thanks to the recent popularity of the Memphis style, it’s easier than ever before to find patterns (and palettes) you love! If possible, try to obtain a smaller test sample before committing to an entire room’s worth of wallpaper.

Design Idea #2: Terrazzo Flooring

You’ve seen terrazzo flooring before, even if you didn’t know the name. Terrazzo features irregular fragments of glass, marble, and other materials, which are combined together and set with a smooth, polished glaze. Dynamic, playful, and a little bit chaotic, terrazzo tile makes the perfect aesthetic complement to any Memphis-style space. Highly customizable, terrazzo is available in a wide range of colors and pattern styles, adding even more character.

Design Idea #3: Plenty of Accessories

Your floors and walls aren’t the only spaces to experiment with Memphis design looks. Don’t forget to accessorize in any room of your home or apartment! With a quick online search, it’s easy to find Memphis-inspired decor and accessories for any room or purpose, including planters, coffee mugs, pillows, shower curtains, drapes, dinnerware, lampshades, storage bins, and even welcome mats.

Explore Interior Styles and Trends with My Design Finder

Mad for Memphis? Discover more styles you love by exploring our design blog, checking out the beautiful custom galleries at My Design Finder, or consulting our friendly and knowledgeable team for ideas. We can help you reimagine and redesign any space to fit any style, from bathrooms and bedrooms to kitchens, basements, hallways, and more. 

Contact us online to get started, or visit one of our showrooms in-person to see how our products look and feel. We carry thousands of brand-name products, including premium luxury flooring, budget-conscious flooring, and environmentally-friendly flooring. And with over 500 retail locations nationwide, you’re never far from your favorite new look!