The Look: Memphis Group

Recognizable by big and bold color schemes, zany geometric patterns and an adoration for squiggles and zig-zags, Memphis Style takes bits and pieces of influence from Art Deco, Pop Art and 1950s Kitsch to create a design movement that valued form more than function.

Blurring the line between furniture and modern art, Memphis Style arose as a rebellious, vibrant response to the dark tones and seriousness of modern design's status quo.

Functionalism in design wasn't enough for Ettore Sottsass, founder of the Memphis Group. Instead, he said “Design should also be sensual and exciting.”