Mirrors, soft textures and pale colors — plus some unique decorative elements — brought a look of classic sophistication to this elegant 1940s living room.
An atmosphere of finesse and refinement was created by this quiet living room in a luxurious high-end New York apartment. It was seen here as it looked back in 1941, just before the US entered World War II and a new era of rationing began.
All of the wooden furniture seen in this vintage photo was specially designed in bleached walnut, including the coffee table, accent table, dresser and armchairs.
But the main coffee table that was in the middle of the seating area — right in front of the fireplace — had a mirrored top, and small square mirror detailing all around the edges.
All of the fabrics in the room had been specially dyed to meet the designer’s vision. While the sofa and its pillows were a soft silver grey, the wooden chairs got a little bit extra flair from their pastel pink and purple seat upholstery.
The dark grey of the drapes were reflected in the wall mirror, and matched the shade of the slightly textured wall-to-wall carpet in the room.
Although the room was clustered around the fireplace wall, the fireplace and mantel were actually quite understated. It was on the small side, but had an elegant inset of grey and white marble.
On the mantel, the antique statuette “Hebe” was by Danish sculptor Albert Thorvaldsen.
