Elvis's Graceland is perhaps one of the most famous homes in the United States. The estate welcomes over 500,000 visitors annually and is designated as a National Historic Landmark. Everyone knows the name, but what does Elvis's one-time home look like on the inside?
In many ways, this world's best home has been frozen in time since Elvis's death in 1977. It's colorful, bold and unique. In a 1993 interview with Elvis's first designer at Graceland, George Golden, shared that he was requested to decorate the home as a 'showpiece.' He told the Phoenix New Times: 'They pretty much gave me a free hand. Vernon Presley made it clear that no one was to counter me and my suggestions. I elected not to go with any one particular motif.' Thus, Golden decorated a range of styles.
Though the home you can see today is still eclectic, according to Golden, its current iteration has much more '70s influence than its original design. The Official Graceland Blog cites the contributions of Bill Eubanks in designing the TV Room and the Billards Room. Elvis's penchant for '70s trends is reflected throughout the home in the incorporation of a colorful fabrics, shag rugs, and faux fur. Considering the current comeback of styles from this era, it's a fascinating insight into how design has evolved, and continues to evolve.
Perhaps the most iconic room in the estate, the living room is a masterclass in eclectic decor. Almost like an excerpt from Presley's wardrobe, the interior of the room is awash with cream. Around the room, royal blue curtains and yellow and turquoise peacock-designed stained glass windows create a bold statement.
Continuing the stained glass motif from the previous space, it's easy to imagine Presley hosting guests in the colorful billiards room. This distinct space has walls and ceilings coated in tented fabric for a unique, incredibly '70s feel. As trends evolve, more light fixtures like the one in Graceland could appear in modern beige or white rooms.
The Billiards Room
The tiki-inspired 'Jungle Room' was 'the nerve center of [Elvis's] home life,' according to Rolling Stone. Referred to as merely 'the den' by Presley, the eclectic interiors reflect the King's eccentric style and playfulness. From the faux wood panelling on the walls to the thick drapery to the waterfall on the wall is completely distinct.
The Jungle Room
Shop the '70s Edit
No seat is complete with a luxurious pillow or throw, so snuggle up with a decadent, faux throw blanket. This hypoallergenic throw is just what your hanging chair is missing.
A vinyl record player is a must-have if you wish to replicate the '70s aesthetic. Throw on some Fleetwood Mac or David Bowie for good measure.
Decorative and timeless, green is a fantastic way to introduce a hint of biophilic color to a simple living room scheme. This modern interpretation of the retro glass vase is a winner.
Lessons in design history are just as important for understanding good design as looking to current trends. When we rely on spaces like Graceland as the basis of inspiration, the origin of current ideas around design becomes all the more clear.
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