7 ’80s Design Trends That Are Making a Stylish Comeback
Retro design trends are back in a major way, from the tiled countertop trend to the cluttercore trend. We tapped designers to talk about vintage-inspired trends, and they told us all about the 1980s design trends that are making a comeback. Think cozy maximalism, wood accents, and colorful tiles. There are plenty of ways to incorporate these 1980s design trends into a contemporary home without making it feel dated. Designers filled us in on how people are embracing aspects of the vintage aesthetic while still maintaining a functional and modern home. Here’s how to incorporate these fresh-again 1980s design trends in your space.Cozy MaximalismEmily J FollowillThe term ‘maximalism’ might bring to mind wild patterns and clashing colors — but that doesn’t truly capture the essence of the style. While maximalism often involves bold design choices, the style can be cozy too. In the 1980s, pops of color throughout the home were commonplace, but these spaces still felt comfortable.”One of my favorite aspects of 1980s home design is the cozy, lived-in feel of the spaces,” says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design. “I love that the cozy, maximalist aesthetic is back where there’s a balance between comfort and style, and spaces feel lived-in and character-ful — while also feeling modern!”Wooden AccentsMatching wooden chairs and tables are part of the 1980s signature style. While you might not see those sets often these days, wooden accents are making a comeback in other forms. “Wood hardware is trending, whether it is integrated into cabinets or designed to stand out,” says Jessica Flake of Copper Sky Design + Remodel. Think wooden knobs on cabinets, stained bookcases and vintage wooden picture frames. Regardless of how it’s incorporated, wood adds character to any space, and homeowners are rediscovering that in new ways. Colored TilesMARC MAULDINDesign by Copper Sky Design + Remodel. Photo by: Marc MauldinHomeowners are continuing to move away from neutral color palettes, welcoming vibrant furniture, daring patterns and unique wall design and flooring into their spaces. Designers are noticing that their clients are especially becoming more adventurous when it comes to their walls, opting for bright colors and new textures around the house. “Colored tile specifically has seen a big revival,” says Flake.Oversized FurnitureChunky furniture is a defining characteristic of 1980s interior design. While it might not sound appealing to have extra-large furniture all over the house today, there’s been a reinvention of this furniture style that designers are loving. “The 1980s were known for their big, bulky furniture, such as oversized sofas and armchairs with thick cushions and large frames. While oversized sofas are still popular, they now have cleaner lines. The focus is on comfort without the oppressive bulk, so you’ll find lower-profile sofas, with a narrow track arm, covered in visually lighter upholstery fabrics,” says Jay. Curved DetailingAnastasia AlkemaContrary to the more modern emphasis on simple, clean lines in home design, the 1980s style was all about curved furniture and detailing around the house. Not only can curved lines be more visually interesting, they can also add character and charm to a home like this fluted marble surface does. “Some trends making a comeback today include curved, fluted and reeded detailing,” says Flake. “We see it in materials such as wood, marble, tile and even glass — applied to cabinets, furniture and walls.” Bold Wallpaper LooksIt’s no surprise that wallpaper is making a major comeback in 2025. While homeowners are taking a step back from the patterns seen in the 1980s, they’re experimenting with all kinds of different colors and designs.”In the 1980s, floral wallpaper was everywhere, and the patterns often featured rich, jewel tones that overwhelmed a space. We’re now seeing wallpaper being used in more creative ways, not just the traditional four walls. My clients are always open to wallpapering a ceiling, or adding a touch of wallpaper in the backs of bookcases,” says Jay.Neon and PastelsRobert Peterson / Rustic White Interiors If bright colors are your thing, you’re in luck. Neon hues and pastel color schemes are working their way back into interior design. “The use of bold color from the 1980s is making a strong comeback, offering a refreshing contrast to the dominance of neutral tones like gray,” says Liz Williams of Liz Williams Interiors. “Small doses of vibrant colors, such as neon accents or jewel tones, are being used in modern interiors to add energy and personality, often through accent walls, colorful furniture and textiles.”Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates. Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter. More
