Inspiration: Kids' Room from 1935

Proving that good design ideas never go out of style, this 1935 ad for Armstrong floors contains some great features that we'd be mistaken to think of as fleeting trends: chalkboards, oversized maps, and the clever use of built-ins for shelving, bed and workspace. Even the boldly geometric polka-dotted upholstery is spot-on.

(We have to admit, however, that, ironically, the flooring does not quite work for us.)

Image: American Home

Comments (10)

are you sure this is from 1935? because it looks more like 1965 . . . either way, it's awesome! i think that's just a window seat and not a bed, but did you spy the pom-pom trim curtains - didn't you guys just post those (in yellow)?

posted by doubledutch on October 22nd 2009 at 2:02pm
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Too bad about that carpet though... :)

posted by keltrue on October 22nd 2009 at 2:18pm
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this is a very clever room. if it is from 1935 i can only imagine how terribly extravagant this would have seemed!

posted by Supergaijin on October 22nd 2009 at 3:00pm
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I think the carpet works actually.

posted by Megan in AZ on October 22nd 2009 at 4:49pm
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I think maybe 1953, not 1935. Actually, I'm sure it's not 1935.

posted by avimom on October 23rd 2009 at 9:14am
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The shape of Mickey Mouses' head is a strong clue to when this picture is from...

posted by stt64 on October 23rd 2009 at 9:50am
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Love it all! Even, no especially, that crazy carpet.

posted by ameliabluebelle on October 23rd 2009 at 1:35pm
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This room is amazing! And the floor isn't a carpet - Armstrong Flooring made/still makes linoleum flooring - this is linoleum. They used to make the most amazing patterns - every kind of floral, tons of geometrics, kids linoleum with fairy tale characters or even Roy Rogers. Vintage ads for linoleum have some of the best decorating ideas because they all really play with pattern. I've found a few rolls of vintage linoleum at antique shows and you can find them on eBay.

posted by chickthree on October 23rd 2009 at 7:44pm
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I've done a little research. The Mickey doll is more reminiscent of the 1930's version. The 1950's version is more rounded, cherubic, and animated. This room is definitely from the 1930's, amazing.

posted by Megan in AZ on October 25th 2009 at 8:01am
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I love the furnishings and pull-out desk!

posted by CrewJulie on October 26th 2009 at 7:57am
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