German interior design – from industrial to socially responsible

The German Interior Design

There are many good things about the German interior design that people love. We are all aware that when it comes to German products, you will be mentioning a lot of them, such as beer, cars, bread and others. All of which have been manufactured with great consideration on their quality. Interior design have also influenced a great deal to the world which is being applied and used.

History of the German Interior Design

German interior design history was greatly influenced during the Biedermeier period. This is an era in Central Europe between 1815 and 1848. The focus is more for the middle class since this is the time when they are growing. This era denotes to the artistic styles in the fields of literature, music, visual arts and interior design. Biedermeier was observed in Germany, Austria and minimally in Scandinavia.

Throughout the period, the focus was more on the clean lines and minimal ornamentation influenced by the Biedermeier’s basis in utilitarian principle. Furniture and style during this era were more practical, less pretentious, the use of pale timber and minimal carved and gilded decorations. The key factors were clarity, proportion and restraint.

During the 20the century, Bauhaus, the famous design school in Germany, was focusing on the totality of the various work of art. The style of Bauhaus has influenced other design styles by combining fine art and industrial craftsmanship. However, the principle of the school still lacks something in interior design. Experts say that while focusing on the totality in the work of art, requirements of the homeowners were overseen.

The New Approach in German Interior Design

it is uncommon in Germany to have strict rules about interior design. It is more usual for them that homeowners design their own concept in interior design. Thus, consultation with an interior design is not really practiced. With regards to production, there is no doubt that Germany is the forerunner, however, they still have to penetrate the international community to become known when it comes to interior design.

If the United States, Great Britain and Italy emphasize more on the interior itself, the interior design in Germany focuses more on the object, such as the sofa, shelves or a chair. Emphasis is on the craftsmanship and the industrial approach into the design world.

After the World War 2, industrial design in Germany was halted, and only during the reconstruction in 1950s when everything started again. It is said that the tradition of German interior design can only be traced during this period of recuperation. Opportunity was opened to try new designs for the society that is coming back to life. Between 1970s and 1980s, a number of German universities were offering bachelors and masters degree programs in interior design. In order to called Innenarchitektur (interior architecture), an aspirantshould be able to complete all the requirements and have received certification. The tedious process and the demanding industry prompted many aspiring individuals to just be called designers rather than interior designers. 

From being industrially oriented interior design, Germany is now transforming to have socially responsible designs. The focus now in Germany’s interior design is on what is relevant to the society. Newer breeds of designers are learning new ways on how to create designs by applying it to social context. For example, the development of high quality interior for the handicapped and elderly people. Germany believes that design should now be essentially responsible rather then just being attractive.