Skip to Content

30 Quirky Home Features From the 80s That Are Making a Comeback

30 Quirky Home Features From the 80s That Are Making a Comeback

Sharing is caring!

Home décor trends often circle back, bringing bygone styles into the spotlight once more. The 80s, bold and experimental, are no exception. Today, many quirky features from this decade are making a vibrant return, blending nostalgia with modern sensibilities.

From neon colors to geometric patterns, these elements are being reimagined to fit contemporary interiors. The allure of 80s nostalgia is transforming homes, adding a unique character.

1. Bold Neon Colors

Bold Neon Colors
© sarabengur

Neon hues are lighting up homes once again. Bright, eye-catching pops of neon colors are being used in accents, wall art, and décor items, adding vibrancy to contemporary interiors. These bold colors serve as a lively contrast to neutral backgrounds, allowing homeowners to inject a playful spirit into their spaces.

Whether through neon pink throw pillows or vivid green vases, this trend brings an energetic 80s flair with a modern twist.

2. Geometric Patterns

Geometric Patterns
© interiordesignmag

Geometric patterns are making bold statements in today’s home interiors. These dynamic prints are finding their way into textiles, wall décor, and floor designs, much like in the 80s. By incorporating geometric patterns, homeowners can add both visual interest and a touch of nostalgia to their spaces.

Whether through patterned rugs or geometric wall art, these designs offer a playful yet sophisticated aesthetic that resonates with modern sensibilities.

3. Mirrored Furniture

Mirrored Furniture
© homeshackwacotx

Reflective surfaces are back, with mirrored furniture adding glamour to modern homes. Mirrored coffee tables and sideboards are popular choices, offering both functionality and a touch of luxury. These pieces reflect light and expand spaces visually, creating an airy and sophisticated atmosphere.

4. Wall Mirrors with Geometric Frames

Wall Mirrors with Geometric Frames
© modernrevivalvintage

Large, funky wall mirrors with geometric or sunburst frames are once again gracing the walls of contemporary homes. These mirrors not only serve a practical purpose but also add an artistic element to any room.

The geometric frames evoke an 80s vibe while offering a stylish focal point. Positioned above entryway consoles or living room mantels, these mirrors command attention and bring a unique design flair that enhances modern interiors.

5. Shag Carpets

Shag Carpets
© Click Americana

Soft, plush shag carpets are having a revival, bringing comfort and retro flair to living rooms and bedrooms. These carpets, reminiscent of the 80s, are being reintroduced with modern designs and neutral tones, making them versatile for contemporary spaces.

The thick, luxurious texture adds warmth and coziness, inviting relaxation. Whether spread across a living room floor or under a dining table, shag carpets offer a nostalgic yet updated design element.

6. Wood Paneling (But in a Chic Way)

Wood Paneling (But in a Chic Way)
© doublerbuildersllc

Wood paneling is back, but this time it’s chic and sleek. Dark walnut or oak panels are being used as striking accent walls in modern homes. Unlike the dated styles of the past, today’s wood paneling boasts a refined finish that complements contemporary interiors.

It adds depth and warmth to spaces, creating a sophisticated backdrop for furniture and art. This revival of wood paneling reflects the 80s charm with a fresh, elegant twist.

7. Laminate Furniture

Laminate Furniture
© beyondvintagehome

Laminate furniture is making a colorful comeback in modern interiors. Known for its affordability and durability, this style features funky shapes and vibrant colors reminiscent of the 80s. Today’s laminate pieces are used to add personality and a playful touch to living spaces.

From brightly hued bookshelves to uniquely shaped coffee tables, laminate furniture offers a nostalgic nod while perfectly fitting into eclectic, contemporary design schemes.

8. Bold Wallpaper

Bold Wallpaper
© nestbyjess

Bold wallpaper is making a splash back into modern homes. Think big, vibrant patterns—florals, stripes, and 80s-inspired motifs are all the rage. These eye-catching designs are being used to create statement walls that draw attention and add character.

This resurgence of patterned walls embraces nostalgia while providing a contemporary twist that enhances the overall aesthetic of a room.

9. Track Lighting

Track Lighting
© mcw_electrics_automation

Track lighting is back, illuminating homes with style and functionality. In kitchens and living spaces, track lighting offers versatility and modern aesthetic appeal. Today’s designs are more minimalist and streamlined, providing focused illumination where needed.

This lighting solution enhances the ambiance while highlighting key areas of a room. By adopting track lighting, homeowners can enjoy a perfect blend of practicality and chic design, reminiscent of the 80s yet suitable for modern spaces.

10. Pop Art-Inspired Décor

Pop Art-Inspired Décor
© starrart

Pop art-inspired décor is once again adding personality to homes. Bold, graphic art pieces evoke the spirit of pop art, infusing spaces with color and character. These pieces transform neutral rooms into lively galleries, offering a playful nod to the 80s.

Whether through vibrant wall art or artistic cushions, pop art decor invites creativity and individuality. This resurgence is perfect for those looking to make bold design statements that stand out in contemporary interiors.

11. Checkerboard Floors

Checkerboard Floors
© sweeten_home

Checkerboard floors are making a chic comeback in modern interiors. Often found in kitchens or entryways, these black and white patterns provide a timeless yet trendy appeal. Their bold contrast adds visual interest and a hint of nostalgia to any space.

The modern twist on checkerboard flooring includes sleek finishes and durable materials, making it both stylish and practical. This classic design element bridges the gap between vintage charm and contemporary elegance.

12. Colorful Accent Walls

Colorful Accent Walls
© akoplayrooms

Brightly colored accent walls are back, adding vibrancy to living rooms and bedrooms. Unlike their 80s predecessors, today’s accent walls feature more sophisticated hues, such as deep teal or rich burgundy. These bold colors create focal points that enhance decor and reflect personality.

Homeowners can embrace both modern elegance and retro flair by transforming conventional rooms into intriguing areas with a beautiful accent wall. This style provides a novel approach to interior customization.

13. Faux Fur Throws

Faux Fur Throws
© jamie_jetaime

Faux fur throws are making interiors feel luxurious yet playful once more. Draped over couches or beds, they add texture and warmth, reminiscent of 80s opulence. Today’s faux fur comes in various colors and patterns, offering endless styling options.

These throws provide a touch of extravagance without compromising on comfort. Perfect for snuggling or as a chic decorative element, faux fur throws blend retro flair with modern coziness in any room.

14. Pop of Pink

Pop of Pink
© bigchillappliances

Hot pink is back, bringing a bold pop of color to modern interiors. Used as a contrasting accent in furniture and décor, this vibrant hue adds energy and style. From plush chairs to decorative pillows, hot pink elements command attention and infuse spaces with a playful charm.

15. Pastel Color Schemes

Pastel Color Schemes
© homepublication

Pastel color schemes are reappearing, softening modern interiors with subtle elegance. From mint green to peach, these gentle hues are finding their way into kitchens and bathrooms, creating serene atmospheres. Pastels offer a calming contrast to bolder elements, blending nostalgia with contemporary design.

Whether through cabinetry or decorative ceramics, these colors breathe life into spaces, making them ideal for those seeking a harmonious balance between retro charm and modern sophistication.

16. Clamshell Light Fixtures

Clamshell Light Fixtures
© Etsy

Clamshell light fixtures are illuminating homes with a touch of artistic flair. These large, sculptural pieces resemble abstract forms, offering a dramatic focal point in rooms. The 80s-inspired design is being reimagined in modern lighting, adding elegance and intrigue.

Positioned above dining tables or in living areas, these fixtures provide ambient lighting while enhancing decor. Their comeback highlights how daring designs from the past can be adapted to fit today’s aesthetic preferences.

17. Mosaic Tile Accents

Mosaic Tile Accents
© Apartment Therapy

Mosaic tile accents are back, bringing vibrant artistry to kitchens and bathrooms. These colorful, abstract designs add depth and personality to spaces, reminiscent of 80s creativity. Whether used as backsplashes or decorative borders, mosaic tiles offer a unique way to enhance interiors. Their intricate patterns and bright hues provide a striking contrast to minimalist fixtures, allowing homeowners to infuse a sense of individuality and charm into modern spaces.

18. Minimalist Brass Accents

Minimalist Brass Accents
© refill.vintage

Brass accents are shining once again in modern interiors. While brass had its heyday in the 80s, it’s now used in minimalist forms, such as sleek cabinet handles and light fixtures. These accents add warmth and a touch of elegance to spaces, pairing beautifully with neutral palettes.

19. Faux Brick Walls

Faux Brick Walls
© southernrhoda

Faux brick walls are regaining popularity, adding texture and charm to modern homes. These walls offer an industrial aesthetic reminiscent of 80s urban lofts, creating visual interest and depth. Easy to install, faux bricks provide a quick way to transform a room without major renovations.

Paired with rustic or contemporary furniture, they enhance the overall design, making spaces feel cozy and inviting while retaining a chic, edgy vibe.

20. Sculptural Furniture Pieces

Sculptural Furniture Pieces
© kellywearstler

Sculptural furniture pieces are making waves in contemporary interiors. Featuring bold, artistic forms, such as curvy chairs or wavy tables, these pieces serve as statement-making focal points. They add a touch of sophistication and creativity, reminiscent of the 80s avant-garde design. This trend highlights the enduring appeal of unique, eye-catching designs in modern homes.

21. Floral Couch Cushions

Floral Couch Cushions
© antiquely.store

Floral couch cushions are in full bloom again, adding an eclectic design feature to modern interiors. These bold patterns evoke the vibrant spirit of the 80s, bringing a splash of color and texture to sofas and chairs. The floral designs complement both contemporary and vintage decor styles, allowing for creative mixing and matching.

22. Lava Lamps

Lava Lamps
© backdoormanila

Lava lamps are bubbling back into style, offering a quirky decorative accent in homes. These nostalgic pieces provide both light and visual interest, transforming mundane spaces into retro-inspired retreats. Positioned on bedside tables or shelves, lava lamps add a playful ambiance with their mesmerizing motion.

This revival taps into the 80s charm while appealing to modern sensibilities, making them a fun addition for those looking to infuse their spaces with character and whimsy.

23. Clashing Patterns

Clashing Patterns
© Lord Decor

Clashing patterns are becoming fashionable again, celebrating bold contrasts and eclectic style. Mixing stripes with florals or checks with polka dots, these daring combinations create vibrant and dynamic interiors.

This trend embraces the adventurous spirit of the 80s, offering homeowners a chance to experiment with color and texture.

24. Sunken Living Rooms

Sunken Living Rooms
© Curbed

Sunken living rooms are sinking back into modern design, providing elevated and intimate spaces. These low, recessed areas create distinct zones within open floor plans, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

The 80s-inspired design offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and social gatherings.

25. Velvet Upholstery

Velvet Upholstery
© badmadge

Velvet upholstery is experiencing a renaissance, adding luxury and elegance to modern interiors. Rich jewel tones, such as emerald and sapphire, cover sofas and armchairs, providing both comfort and style.

This opulent fabric, popular in the 80s, is being reintroduced with a contemporary twist.

26. Framed Posters of Iconic Movies/Artists

Framed Posters of Iconic Movies/Artists
© japanpostershop

Framed posters of iconic movies and artists from the 80s are adorning modern walls once more. These large, vibrant prints celebrate pop culture, adding a nostalgic touch to interiors.

Whether showcasing classic film posters or album covers, they serve as eye-catching focal points that spark conversation.

Homeowners may honor their favorite 80s icons and add one-of-a-kind, personalized art to their room by incorporating framed posters into their decor.

27. Rotating Bookshelves

Rotating Bookshelves
© modified_home

Rotating bookshelves are spinning back into homes, offering unique and functional design solutions. These quirky features provide hidden storage and dynamic room dividers, reminiscent of 80s ingenuity.

Ideal for home libraries and living rooms, these shelves add an element of surprise and creativity, allowing homeowners to showcase their literary collection while enhancing the overall ambiance.

28. Exposed Plumbing Pipes

Exposed Plumbing Pipes
© True Flow Plumbing and Drains

Exposed plumbing pipes are becoming a trendy feature in modern homes. This industrial design element, reminiscent of 80s urban lofts, adds a raw and edgy aesthetic to kitchens and bathrooms. By leaving pipes bare, spaces gain texture and personality, creating a unique visual contrast with sleek fixtures.

Homeowners can embrace this trend to add an urban vibe to their interiors, making a bold design statement that celebrates architectural elements.

29. Mirrored Walls

Mirrored Walls
© nestbyjess

Mirrored walls are reflecting their way back into style, creating glamorous and spacious effects in homes. These full or accent mirrors enlarge rooms visually, adding light and elegance. The comeback of mirrored walls taps into 80s opulence, offering a chic design solution for contemporary spaces.

30. Oversized House Plants

Oversized House Plants
© harandoesthings

Oversized house plants are growing in popularity once again, bringing a touch of greenery indoors. Rubber plants, monstera, and ferns are thriving in living spaces, just like they did in the 80s. These big, bold plants add life and vitality to interiors, creating a refreshing contrast with modern decor.

By incorporating oversized house plants, homeowners can enhance their spaces with natural beauty, promoting a sense of well-being and connection to nature.