ABC Blind & Drapery has been locally owned and operated since 1947, meaning we’ve seen a lot of change over the years, not only in Austin, but also in Austin decor. When we opened our doors and began serving the community, Austin was beginning to grow at an impressive rate in many sectors. As enrollment at the University of Texas boomed and the number of government employees multiplied, the city also started to assert itself as a home for high-tech companies. Austin’s promising economy brought customers to ABC Blind & Drapery who wanted their window treatments to match the current trends in decor.
1950’s
Interior design in the 1950’s meant mid-century modern furniture pieces with sharp angles to match the industrialized style of architecture. Screens replaced walls and floor to ceiling windows were preferred to allow maximum natural light. Think bright furniture, decorative pieces and patterned area rugs to contrast neutral walls. The minimalist decor meant that people opted for lightweight window treatments rather than heavy curtains.
1970’s
In the 1970’s, Austin was experiencing a musical rebirth combined with a cultural shake-up. The growing population required structural development, but such growth was met with resistance by those who stressed preservation of Austin’s natural sites. Even then, Austin maintained a delicate balance between corporate and creative, a juxtaposition between high-tech and hippie. The design trends of the decade included mixing and matching exotic accents to give off a worldly feel, while still clinging to minimalism to avoid material excess.
1990’s
Austin was named the Live Music Capital of the World in 1991, recognized for having the most live music venues per capita. Austin’s economy continued to diversify and welcome high-tech companies. The introduction of the world wide web led us to the era of excess, our homes filling with stuff we probably didn’t need, but could surely find a place for. Remember floral wall paper? ABC Blind & Drapery provided the patterns for window treatments to match.
Now
Austin continues to be the place to go to hear any kind of music at any time, as well as the home to many start ups and high-tech companies. In it’s adult form, Austin has realized what it has to offer as a state capitol and still manages to keep it a little bit weird. The current interior design trends happen to match. Refined pieces with purpose, combined with unexpected accents. Think sleek, but comfy furniture with pops of color on the walls and a mix of textures like marble or metal accents. ABC Blind & Drapery has existed through the trends and continues to provide high quality window treatments that Austin is proud to showcase in their homes.