Ya Want We Should Rabbet The Lintels?

For as long as there has been interiors to decorate, there have been books to instruct the mistress of the house how to do it.

This book, Interior Decorating For You, dated 1952 contains a rather detailed section dedicated to choosing the right colour.

While the information holds true today, the period line art places this artifact to a delightful post-War period where couples enjoyed increased disposable income and looked, perhaps, at building their own homes.

Perhaps like Mr Blandings (Cary Grant) who built his dream home with wife Myrna Loy in the 1948 classic film Mr Blandings Builds His Dream House.

Although approaching 60 years old, this film will raise a chuckle with anyone who has built a house and is a salutary lesson for anyone considering it.

Perhaps Mrs Blandings had this picture in mind (at left) when she considered the the right hue of green for her living room in the picturesque New England countryside.

Don't know what we're talking about?

Then check this fabulous two minute, one take scene in which Myrna Loy instructs the painters on the right red for the powder room and best blue for the dining room ceiling: