Mid-Century Modern Marvels: Reviving Motels Built in the 1960's
- Posted By Jenny Chellew
Step into the swinging sixties, where peace, love, and groovy vibes ruled! In this second installment of our Retro Revived Motel Series, we're embarking on a nostalgic odyssey back to the iconic era of the 1960s. Explore the charm of mid-century modern marvels, where bold designs and cultural revolutions defined a generation. But this is just the beginning of our time-travelling adventure! Buckle up, because we're not stopping here. As we journey through the decades, we'll dive into the psychedelic seventies, embrace the neon-soaked eighties and relish the rad vibes of the nineties. Each era brings its unique flair and we're here to guide you through the groovy, funky and totally tubular world of retro motels. So, dust off your bell-bottoms, adjust your tie-dye shirts, and get ready to boogie as we kick off this exhilarating retro road trip! Stay tuned for more retro magic in the posts to come!
But why this fascination with the past, you might ask? Well, it's not merely nostalgia; it's a response to a growing trend. Travellers today are yearning for more than just a place to rest their heads; they seek experiences, narratives and a taste of history. Reviving these architectural gems isn't just a trip down memory lane; it's a strategic choice, a nod to sustainability and a celebration of an era that continues to captivate hearts of the young and the old. By embracing the past, you are not just preserving it; you're curating an immersive journey for your guests. So, buckle up for a ride through time, where every corner tells a story and every colour evokes an emotion. Today is an exploration of the 1960s, where architectural elegance meets cultural revolution!
Architectural Gems of the '60s
The 1960s were marked by a design revolution. Architects embraced clean lines, open spaces and a seamless integration with nature. Motels of this era often featured flat planes, large glass windows and minimalist structures. These architectural marvels are not just buildings; they're art pieces, reflecting the optimism and creativity of the time.
Preserving the Essence: Painting the Past in Vibrant Hues
Reviving a '60s motel means delving into a palette of vibrant colors that once defined an era of change and freedom. In the 1960s, motel walls were adorned with sunny yellows, avocado greens, and electric blues – shades echoing the optimism of the times.
Applying these colors isn't just a matter of a fresh coat of paint; it's about recreating an atmosphere. Picture your motel exterior in sunny yellow, reflecting the era's boundless optimism. Aqua blues can transform common areas into tranquil retreats, exuding the serenity of a bygone time. Meanwhile, avocado greens add a touch of sophistication, grounding the space in natural beauty.
Consider accent walls, vibrant doors, or artistic murals paying homage to 1960s pop culture. Let these colors breathe life into your motel, turning it into a canvas where the essence of the swinging sixties comes alive.
Cost-Effective Period-Specific Furnishings: Creating a Nostalgic Haven
Capturing the magic of the '60s doesn't have to break the bank. Instead of splurging on high-end replicas, consider cost-effective alternatives. Hunt for vintage stores or online marketplaces where you can find affordable vibrant orange sofas or furniture with geometric patterns. Think creatively; reupholstering existing furniture with period-appropriate fabrics can instantly transform the look without a hefty price tag.
Space-age-inspired decor can be achieved through DIY projects. Think lava lamps, beaded curtains, or even retro wall art. Craft stores often carry affordable materials to help you recreate the whimsy of the 1960s. Embracing the essence of the era doesn't have to strain your budget. It's about resourcefulness and a keen eye for finding budget-friendly items that resonate with the spirit of the swinging sixties.
Retro Signage
Let's not forget the allure of retro signage. Neon signs adorned with bold, cursive letters were a hallmark of the '60s. Integrating such signage adds a touch of nostalgia, guiding guests into a world of vintage charm.
Affordable Pop Art: Infusing Your Motel with 1960s Cultural Vibes
There are plenty of cost-effective ways to infuse pop art into your motel's ambiance. Consider DIY art projects inspired by famous pop artists like Andy Warhol or Roy Lichtenstein. Acrylic paints and canvas are budget-friendly materials that can help you create vibrant, bold graphics reminiscent of the era.
Another economical option is to explore local schools or collaborate with budding artists who might create custom pop art pieces at a fraction of the cost. Vinyl wall decals are a wallet-friendly alternative, offering easy application and removal. Opt for designs featuring iconic '60s imagery like vinyl records, peace signs, or psychedelic patterns.
Op shops and flea markets can be treasure troves for affordable pop art finds. Look for vintage posters, bold-coloured accessories, or even second-hand furniture that embodies the pop art spirit. With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, your motel can become a canvas for the energy of the '60s, inviting guests into a world where history and art seamlessly collide.
By reviving the mid-century modern marvels of the 1960s, you're not just running a business; you're curating a time-travelling adventure. You're inviting guests to immerse themselves in the aesthetics, culture, and spirit of a transformative era. Stay tuned, because in our next post, we'll be venturing into the eclectic and vibrant world of the 1970s, uncovering more secrets to make your retro revived motel an irresistible haven! Get ready to groove to the tunes of nostalgia!
This blog was written by Jenny Chellew, an accredited business broker with a focus on the tourism and accommodation industry. With a wealth of expertise and a passion for assisting clients in this sector, Jenny provides valuable insights and guidance to help you navigate the world of business buying and selling resulting in the best possible outcome for all.