Memphis Group design is loud, joyful, and unapologetically postmodern. It mixes bright primaries with pastels, geometric forms, playful patterns, and unexpected materials. The style is a rebellion against bland, safe interiors — but it’s not just for galleries. With paint, a few clever furniture swaps, and inexpensive DIY techniques, you can bring Memphis energy into real homes. Below are 100 practical, realistic ideas — each with clear steps or material tips so they’re achievable by homeowners, decorators, or DIY fans.
1. Two-Tone Color-Blocked Sofa
Reupholster or buy a sofa with two contrasting color panels (e.g., teal + coral). Use durable upholstery fabric and sew a simple seam down the center or apply slipcovers for an easier swap.
2. Squiggle-Pattern Accent Wall
Paint a single wall with thick, free-form black squiggles over a white background. Use a large brush for confident strokes. Add small colored shapes around the squiggles to finish.
3. Geometric Coffee Table (DIY)
Build a lacquered plywood table with a circular top and triangular legs. Sand, prime, and finish with high-gloss paint. Seal with polyurethane for durability.
4. Painted Checkerboard Floor Mat
Cut plywood or use a cheap area rug and paint a checkerboard in bold, unusual colors (lavender + chartreuse). Apply an outdoor sealer if used outdoors.
5. Neon Tube Wall Art
Install neon or LED tube lights bent into simple Memphis shapes (zigzags, circles). Use plug-in versions for easy installation and hire an electrician for hardwired work.
6. Asymmetric Open Shelving in Blocks
Install wall shelves in varied box sizes and paint each box a different color. Use plywood with clean miters and floating shelf brackets for a professional look.
7. Memphis Pattern Wallpaper Accent
Choose a removable wallpaper with dots, stripes, and squiggles for one wall. Peel-and-stick options keep this low-commitment and renter-friendly.
8. Oversized Polka-Dot Rug
Buy or paint a rug with large polka dots. Stencil large circles and use fabric paint or order a custom printed rug for longevity.
9. Sculptural Wavy Chair
Source or reupholster a chair with a wavy, ergonomic back. Pick vinyl or bold fabric; add contrasting piping for extra Memphis drama.
10. Two-Tone Painted Doors
Paint interior or closet doors with two blocks of colors split horizontally or diagonally. Use high-quality primer and satin paint for a crisp edge.
11. Bold Graphic Throw Pillows
Sew or buy pillows with geometric shapes, lightning bolts, or black-and-white stripes. Mix materials — velvet, cotton, vinyl — for textural contrast.
12. Lacquered Sideboard in High-Gloss Finish
Refinish a vintage sideboard with a bright, glossy lacquer. Sand, prime, and spray in a well-ventilated area for the mirror-like Memphis look.
13. Colorful Cylinder Lamps
Use lamp bases made from stacked cylinders painted in alternating colors. Top with a solid-color shade that picks up one of the base colors.
14. Zigzag Painted Stair Risers
Paint the vertical faces of stair risers in a zigzag pattern. Use painter’s tape to get sharp edges. Keep the treads neutral for safety.
15. Graphic Pendant Lights (Clustered)
Hang a trio of pendants with different shapes (sphere, cube, cone) and paint each a different primary color. Cluster at varied heights above a table.
16. Memphis Tile Backsplash
Install ceramic tiles in bold geometric patterns behind a sink or stove. Consider custom tiles or mix plain colored tiles to create your own motif.
17. Asymmetric Mirror with Colored Frame
Cut a mirror into an irregular shape or buy one, then frame it with a wide painted border in two-tone contrast.
18. Playful Patterned Drapes
Use curtains with oversized abstract shapes or chunky stripes. Choose machine-washable fabrics and line them if needed for opacity.
19. Low-Profile Platform Bed with Color Paneling
Build or repaint a simple platform bed with a multi-colored headboard made from painted MDF panels. Bolt panels for safety.
20. Stackable Cube Ottomans in Different Hues
Cover cube ottomans in vinyl or fabric and stack them in staggered formations to double as seating and art.
21. Speckled “Confetti” Paint Accent
Mix tiny drops of contrasting paint onto a base color to create a confetti speckled look on small furniture pieces or a single wall.
22. Bold Striped Ceiling
Paint ceiling stripes in two complementary colors. Use ladder-safe positioning and rollers for long, even strokes.
23. Half-Moon Console Table
Find or build a half-circle console and paint the underside a contrasting color. Place against a wall with bold wallpaper or mural.
24. Memphis-Inspired Gallery Wall
Arrange framed prints of abstract shapes, squiggles, and vintage Memphis posters in mismatched frames. Keep spacing intentionally irregular.
25. Color-Blocked Kitchen Cabinets
Paint lower cabinets one color and uppers another. Use durable cabinet paints and consider sample testing on one door first.
26. Checkerboard Tile Shower Floor
Install small checkerboard tiles in a bathroom floor, using unusual color combos (black + teal). Slope and grout properly to ensure drainage.
27. Geometric Area Rug (Custom)
Order a custom rug with Memphis motifs or buy a bold geometric rug. Look for low-pile wool or synthetic blends for easier cleaning.
28. Painted Radiators or HVAC Covers
Give metal radiators or vent covers a pop of color with heat-resistant paint. Use this to tie in a room’s accent color.
29. Graphic Kitchen Island Panels
Add painted panels or adhesive vinyl to the sides of a kitchen island in graphic shapes or color blocks.
30. Oversized Abstract Floor Lamp
Choose a floor lamp with a large geometric base and a simple drum shade. Paint the base in two colors for extra punch.
31. Bold Patterned Tile Stair Treads
Apply patterned tile or peel-and-stick tile to stair treads for a playful vertical accent. Use anti-slip sealant on top.
32. Memphis-Inspired Outdoor Cushions
Sew or buy outdoor cushions with bold prints and deep colors for patios. Use weather-resistant fabric (Sunbrella or similar).
33. Painted Fireplace Surround
Paint the fireplace surround in a bright, contrasting color or apply graphic tiles to the hearth for a focal point.
34. Geometric Planter Collection
Group planters of different blocky shapes and paint each one in a distinct color. Use succulents for simple care.
35. Patterned Vinyl Floor Runner
Place a long vinyl runner with Memphis patterns in a hallway. Vinyl is durable, inexpensive, and easy to clean.
36. Chunky Ceramic Vases in Primary Colors
Place oversized ceramic vases in red, blue, and yellow. Use them solo as sculptural objects or with simple dried stems.
37. Two-Tone Bathroom Vanity
Paint the vanity base one color and drawers another. Replace hardware with black or chrome to complete the look.
38. Memphis Tile Coffee Table Top
Set a tile mosaic on a coffee table surface using bold pieces and grout in a contrasting color for definition.
39. Geometric Wallpaper Border
Cut wallpaper into strips and install as a border mid-wall or near ceilings for a subtler Memphis nod.
40. Vinyl Decals in Abstract Shapes
Apply large removable vinyl shapes onto cabinets, doors, or appliances. Great for quick refreshes and rentals.
41. Layered Neon Picture Frames
Paint wooden frames in neon tones and layer them on a shelf for a low-effort, high-impact display.
42. Wavy-Edged Bookshelf
Modify a bookshelf edge to create a wavy silhouette, then paint in two complementary colors to highlight the shape.
43. Primary-Color Bar Stools
Replace dining or kitchen stools with ones upholstered or painted in primary colors. Metal or molded plastic styles work well.
44. Zigzag Painted Kitchen Backsplash
Create a zigzag pattern on a basic backsplash using tile paint or peel-and-stick tiles for a budget solution.
45. Two-Tone Headboard with Graphic Cutout
Build a headboard with a geometric cutout (triangle or circle) and paint the inner cutout a contrasting color.
46. Colorful Radiating Ceiling Fixture
Install a ceiling fixture with radiating arms each painted a different color for kinetic, sculptural lighting.
47. Memphis-Inspired Upholstery Trim
Add oversized piping in a contrasting color to sofas and chairs to create bold edges and shape definition.
48. Graphic Table Runner with Bold Motifs
Sew a table runner with big dots, stripes, or squiggles to enliven dining spaces without permanent changes.
49. Striped Outdoor Umbrella
Buy or stripe an umbrella with bold alternating bands; it anchors patios and adds instant Memphis character.
50. Black & White Anchor Pieces
Balance color by including a black-and-white striped or check piece (rug or chair) to ground bright palettes.
51. Painted Console Legs in Contrasting Colors
Dip-console or table legs in a second color (like a paint dunk) for a quick Memphis update.
52. Geometric Tile Stair Riser Stickers
Use removable stair riser decals with Memphis shapes to transform stairs without permanent tiling.
53. Oversized Blocky Coat Rack
Construct or buy a coat rack with chunky geometric hooks and paint each hook a different hue.
54. Patterned Acoustic Panels
Cover sound-absorbing wall panels with Memphis fabric or print to add function and bold style to living rooms or studios.
55. Vinyl Upholstery with Bold Prints
Reupholster chairs in vinyl with bold Memphis prints for an easy-to-clean, retro-modern look.
56. Asymmetric Color-Blocked Rug Layout
Place two or three small rugs in different colors and shapes to make a layered, collage-like floor composition.
57. Painted Stair Handrail in a Dash Color
Paint the stair handrail a bright accent color to guide the eye upward and link floor-to-ceiling design.
58. Geometric Outdoor Screens
Cut plywood or metal panels in angular shapes and use them as privacy screens; paint them vivid colors for drama.
59. Memphis Tile Bar Backsplash
Install a small tiled backsplash behind a home bar in starbursts, triangles, or polka dots.
60. Mix-and-Match Dining Chairs in Bold Colors
Collect inexpensive chairs and spray-paint each in a different solid color to create an eclectic dining set.
61. Oversized Abstract Wall Clock
Install a large wall clock made from colored shapes; laser-cut acrylic or painted wood works well.
62. Mirror Cluster in Varying Shapes
Arrange circular, triangular, and oval mirrors with colored frames in an intentionally messy cluster.
63. Color-Blocked Window Frame Accent
Paint window frames inside and out in an accent color to make windows pop against neutral walls.
64. Memphis-Inspired Headboard Upholstery Panels
Attach vertical upholstered panels in alternating colors as a DIY headboard—easy to tack on and replace.
65. Painted Stair Nosing in Accent Stripe
Paint the front edge of each stair in a continuous stripe color to tie steps together visually.
66. Tile-Inlaid Countertop Edges
Add a thin band of patterned tile around counter edges to add Memphis detail without redoing entire surfaces.
67. Geometric Drop Ceiling Panels
Suspend geometric panels painted in bold colors to add dimension to rooms with high ceilings or industrial bones.
68. Pop-Art Poster Frames with Colored Mats
Mat and frame pop-art or Memphis-style prints using colored mats that echo the print’s palette.
69. Color-Splashed Door Hardware
Replace knobs and pulls with colored or enamel-coated hardware for small but vivid accents.
70. Brightly Painted Radiator Covers
Build a radiator cover with geometric cutouts and paint it in a bold shade to transform ugly heat sources into decor.
71. Low-Profile Platform Sofa with Color Banding
Build or upholster a low sofa and add a horizontal band of color across the base to emphasize its shape.
72. Memphis-Inspired Plant Stand Trio
Create three plant stands of different heights and shapes, paint each differently, and group them by windows.
73. Polychrome Coffee Table with Geometric Inlays
Decorate a coffee table top with painted inlay triangles and circles sealed under epoxy for durable shine.
74. Patterned Ceramic Knobs for Cabinets
Swap plain knobs for hand-painted ceramic knobs in dots, stripes, or squiggles to refresh cabinetry affordably.
75. Bold-Colored Door Trim
Paint door casings in a bright color different from the door itself to frame entries with attitude.
76. Memphis Style Toy Storage Boxes
Build or buy storage cubes and paint each in solid bright colors; stack them in playful configurations.
77. Graphic Headboard Wallpaper Panel
Apply a bold wallpaper pattern inside a framed panel behind the bed to create a contained statement.
78. Painted Mantel with Layered Shapes
Paint the fireplace mantel in overlapping color shapes to create the look of Memphis collage without expensive remodels.
79. Primary-Color Window Seat Cushion
Sew a window seat cushion in blocks of primary colors and finish with oversized button tufting.
80. Layered Wall Shelves in Contrasting Colors
Stack thin wall shelves with each shelf painted a different hue to create a floating color sculpture.
81. Triangular Kitchen Shelf Inserts
Cut shelf inserts in triangular shapes and paint them bright to display mugs, spices, or small plants.
82. Floor-to-Ceiling Painted Stripe Corner
Paint one corner of a room in vertical color stripes; it visually expands and becomes an architectural detail.
83. Graphic Fabric Lampshade Makeover
Recover lampshades with Memphis fabric or adhesive vinyl to coordinate with room accents quickly.
84. Painted Window Box Trio
Paint three matching window boxes in contrasting colors and plant colorful geraniums or petunias for curb appeal.
85. Colored Glass Cabinet Inlay
Replace solid cabinet panels with colored glass inserts or acrylic panels for jewel-like shimmer.
86. Memphis Accent Bench for Entryway
Build a narrow entry bench with a colored top and patterned legs. Add a cushion in bold print for comfort.
87. Geometric Tile Coasters & Trivets (DIY)
Cut cork or wood into shapes and top with patterned tiles or paint for heatproof table protection with style.
88. Black Outline Detailing on Furniture
Paint thin black outlines around edges of painted furniture to emulate Memphis graphic drawing techniques.
89. Bold-Patterned Shower Curtain
Choose a shower curtain with oversized Memphis patterns for an instant bathroom update that’s inexpensive and removable.
90. Colorful Stair Runner with Graphic Repeat
Install a stair runner with a repeating Memphis motif to carry pattern up through the house.
91. Painted Fireplace Hearth Tiles
Paint plain hearth tiles with high-heat tile paint in graphic patterns for a refreshed focal point.
92. Memphis-Inspired Headboard Shelf Combo
Mount a floating shelf behind the bed and paint it in color blocks that align with a printed headboard.
93. Geometric Ironwork Screens (Indoor/Outdoor)
Commission or DIY metal screens in geometric shapes to use as room dividers, then powder-coat them in bold colors.
94. Tile-Inset Dining Table Top
Create a dining tabletop with tile insets arranged in Memphis patterns and grout in a contrasting tone.
95. Painted Appliance Panels
Use adhesive panels or paint-safe methods to color fridge or dishwasher fronts for a cohesive custom kitchen look.
96. Color-Blocked Outdoor Planter Wall
Hang or stack colorful planters on an exterior wall to add color and mid-century playfulness to the yard.
97. Memphis Patterned Window Films
Apply decorative window films with geometric patterns for privacy and pattern without cutting glass.
98. Custom Printed Upholstery Fabric
Order custom fabric printed with Memphis motifs and use it to reupholster chairs, cushions, or headboards.
99. Multi-Color Garden Path Tiles
Lay concrete pads or tiles painted in bold colors to create a playful, meandering garden path.
100. Layered, Collaged Accent Wall
Combine paint, wallpaper tiles, decals, and framed art to create a layered Memphis collage mural — keep one dominant palette for cohesion.
FAQs
Q: Is Memphis Group style only for big budgets?
No. Many ideas above are low-cost (paint, decals, slipcovers). Invest in a few anchor pieces if you want a higher-impact look.
Q: Will Memphis style overpower a small room?
It can if overdone. Start with one or two statement elements (a rug, an accent wall) then layer slowly.
Q: Are these ideas renter-friendly?
Yes. Vinyl decals, peel-and-stick tiles, removable wallpaper, slipcovers, and painted furniture (with removable covers) are renter-friendly options.
Q: How do I avoid a chaotic look?
Limit the palette to 3–5 repeating colors and anchor bright elements with neutral pieces. Use black-and-white stripes or solids to ground the design.
Q: What materials wear best for Memphis motifs?
Vinyl, lacquered plywood, ceramic tile, powder-coated metal, and quality upholstery fabrics (or weather-resistant textiles outdoors).
Conclusion
Memphis Group design is about joyful risk. It welcomes color collisions, bold geometry, and playful materials. You don’t need to renovate your whole house to enjoy the style: pick a few of the above ideas and test them. Paint is cheap. Decals are reversible. Small furniture swaps create huge personality shifts. Use these 100 realistic ideas as a menu: mix, match, and tweak to build a home that’s unmistakably yours.
