Step into a typical 1950s living room with me, folks! Back then, this wasn’t just any room – it was the heart of family life, where we gathered, entertained, and made memories that would last a lifetime. Every home had certain must-have items that defined the era, from practical pieces to decorative touches that screamed “mid-century modern.” Let’s take a walk down memory lane and revisit these classic living room staples.
Table of Contents
- 1 1. The Console Television
- 2 2. The Hi-Fi Console
- 3 3. The Atomic Clock
- 4 4. The Ashtray Stand
- 5 5. The Encyclopedia Set
- 6 6. The Slipper Chair
- 7 7. The Magazine Rack
- 8 8. The Coffee Table Books
- 9 9. The Philodendron Plant
- 10 10. The Venetian Blinds
- 11 11. The Family Bible
- 12 12. The Doilies
- 13 13. The Card Table Set
1. The Console Television
The pride of every 1950s living room was the console television, usually an RCA or Zenith, housed in a magnificent wooden cabinet that was as much furniture as an appliance. These sets might have had small screens by today’s standards, but they were treated like fine furniture, often topped with a lace doily and family photos. The TV repairman was a regular visitor as tubes frequently needed replacement.
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2. The Hi-Fi Console
A massive piece of furniture that housed a record player and radio, the hi-fi console was where the family’s music collection lived. These beautiful wooden cabinets often featured built-in speakers and storage for vinyl records. Parents would stack up Pat Boone and Perry Como albums for evening entertainment, while teenagers snuck their Elvis records into the mix.
3. The Atomic Clock
These starburst-design wall clocks perfectly captured the atomic age’s fascination with space and science. Usually brass or copper-toned, they featured rays extending from the center like a metallic sunburst. The design was so popular that original pieces now fetch high prices at antique stores.
4. The Ashtray Stand
Before we knew better about smoking, every living room had at least one decorative ashtray stand. These often ornate pieces could be pulled up next to any chair and featured a weighted base and adjustable height. Many included a small tabletop perfect for resting a cocktail.
5. The Encyclopedia Set
A complete set of World Book or Encyclopedia Britannica was both a status symbol and an educational resource. Displayed prominently on built-in shelves, these leather-bound volumes represented a significant investment in the family’s education. Door-to-door salesmen made their living selling these sets on the installment plan.
6. The Slipper Chair
These armless, low-seated chairs were perfect for ladies in pencil skirts and were often upholstered in bold floral prints or modern geometric patterns. Usually placed in pairs, they provided extra seating without taking up too much space. The low profile made them perfect for conversation areas.
7. The Magazine Rack
A brass or wooden magazine rack was essential for keeping Life, Look, and Saturday Evening Post organized and accessible. These stands often featured multiple pockets and were designed to complement the modern furniture of the era. Some even included a special slot for the TV Guide, which was considered essential reading.
8. The Coffee Table Books
Large, impressive books about art, travel, or photography were carefully arranged on the coffee table to spark conversation. These books weren’t just for show – they represented the family’s cultural interests and aspirations. Norman Rockwell collections were particularly popular choices.
9. The Philodendron Plant
No 1950s living room was complete without at least one philodendron plant, usually trailing from a brass planter or macramé hanger. These hardy plants could survive in low light and added a touch of nature to the indoor space. They were often positioned near the picture window.
10. The Venetian Blinds
Wide metal Venetian blinds were the window treatment of choice, often paired with decorative drapes. These adjustable blinds offered privacy while allowing control over natural light. The distinctive sound of them being raised or lowered is a memory many of us still carry.
11. The Family Bible
A large family Bible, often leather-bound with gold-edged pages, held a place of honor in most living rooms. These weren’t just religious texts – they were family records, containing births, marriages, and deaths carefully recorded inside. Many included beautiful color illustrations of biblical scenes.
12. The Doilies
Handmade lace or crocheted doilies adorned the arms and backs of upholstered furniture, protecting them from wear while adding a decorative touch. These delicate pieces were often family heirlooms, passed down through generations. They required careful laundering and starching to maintain their crisp appearance.
13. The Card Table Set
A folding card table and matching chairs were tucked away but ready for bridge club or family game night. These sets often featured vinyl padding and could be easily stored when not in use. They were essential for entertaining and often came out during holidays when extra table space was needed.
