After a golden era of house building in the 1930s, Britain emerged from the Second World War with a desperate need to rebuild its bomb-damaged towns and cities. But there was precious little
money to buy the necessary materials, a shortage of skilled labour and a pervading mood of austerity.
Nevertheless, there followed a determination to focus upon the future rather than the past. Brighter design, careful planning, and what was called `townscape' began to replace the traditional
character of Victorian housing. The 1951 Festival of Britain was regarded as a tonic to the nation and epitomised a sense of direction towards modernity in all aspects of living.
Now homes, whether simple prefab bungalows, high-rise flats, or concrete and steel detached houses, all showed this vision. For new owners they were a dream come true as they stepped into
living areas draped in sunlight and swathed in vinyl and formica.
This book tells the story of the bold new era. It describes the craze for DIY, the growing awareness of colour schemes, and novel ideas in interior decor. It also describes the steady increase
in consumerism as new technology introduced the everyday gadgets of modern living to us all.
This is the ideal book for those who live or have lived in a property built during the post-war years and who want to learn more about the background to the period; how houses and flats were
built and fitted out; and the different styles of decoration that were popular in the 1940s and 1950s. For some it may be a nostalgia trip and for others a useful starting point for renovating
a period home.
Trevor Yorke is a full-time artist and author. His other books in this series include The Tudor House Explained, Georgian & Regency Houses Explained, The Victorian House Explained, The
Edwardian House Explained and The 1930s House Explained. He is also the author of British Architectural Styles --- An Easy Reference Guide.
