Postmodernism emerged in the 1970s and 1980s as a reaction against strict modernism. Instead of rationality and uniformity, it introduced playfulness, color, and irony into design.

Designers such as Ettore Sottsass, Stefano Giovannoni, and Alessandro Mendini experimented with forms and materials, often with a sense of humor. Postmodern design is expressive and bold, intended to evoke emotion and personality.