If you’ve been following home interior trends, you’ll notice that they’re almost always cyclical. Trends that peaked in the ‘70s and ‘80s are now experiencing a major revival in today’s homes, and your mom’s chintz upholstered armchair might just prove to be the most happening fad this year!
If you’re looking to upgrade your home interiors, it might be a good idea to revisit some of these retro styles that are coming back in style.
Black metal frames
Popularised in the 70s, black powder-coated metal lamps with flexible pipes are trending again. Hairpin legs on furniture—a trend that’s even older, and dates back to mid-century days—blend in perfectly well with the look and can be used on tables, storage units and chairs. Undeniably practical, the black metal trend is here to stay!
Ball lampshades
We’ve all seen various versions of these ball lampshades; whether they are in glass, rice paper or yarn! Heck, we might even have tried our hand at a DIY version of the same, as they are super easy and loads of fun to create! Whatever be the reason, these decorative globes are back as a décor fad.
As bold as brass
Stainless steel is now passé. Try brass instead; on your knobs and handles, lamp fixtures and even the faucets in your bathroom! While steel feels cold and clinical, metallic accents in brass and copper lend an air of warmth to your spaces.
Rattan and cane
The hippie culture and free-spirited Bohemian lifestyles were big in the ‘70s, and that’s when rattan and cane furniture became popular. With the accent on sustainable choices today, these organic, eco-friendly fibres have seen a resurgence in popularity. Rattan and cane fibres are flexible and resilient and can be woven into graceful and innovative furniture that can be used indoors as well as outdoors.
Checkered and paisley prints
Soft, flowing paisley prints and in contrast, plaid and checkered patterns were popular choices for upholstery and drapes. ‘80s bedrooms were done up with synchronized patterns in the wallpaper, bed linen and drapes. Today’s take on this adopts a lighter touch, with paisley prints and checks used as throw cushions or accent furnishings, but not everywhere.
Patterned tiles
While the rest of this kitchen screams modern, the lovely patterned Moroccan tiles are a definite throwback to the ‘80s. Soft curves and geometric prints that were symmetrical around a central axis were all the rage in that era, and today’s tile and wall coverings are reusing these repetitive flowing patterns.
Tassels and fringes
Tassels and fringes abound in retro décor, and this signature hallmark of the Bohemian era is coming back into the limelight. Macrame plant holders and wall hangings, frilled pillowcases and cushion covers, and table lamps with fringed edges are pretty embellishments that are seeing a fresh revival of interest.
Bold wallpaper
Bold choices in wallpaper, such as effusive florals, leaf prints or graphic designs, are a hot and happening trend again. While it isn’t used on all walls, like it used to be, wallpaper is now used strategically to add focus to space. It could be used just behind a bed but not on the entire wall or centred in the middle of the living room wall for visual interest.
Hanging chairs
We’ve always loved this trend, and we’re so glad it’s back in our look books! An egg chair on a metal stand is a new twist on an old style. Pile on the shag cushions and fleecy throws (also on point and trending), and turn the corner of your living room into a cosy reading nook!
How-tos and tips
- While you might love the retro style, there’s no way that you would ever give up on modern conveniences! An eclectic mix of the old and the new would work well.
- Upcycle vintage furniture and furnishings to bring back a whiff of the ‘70s and ‘80s to your home.
- If you’re wallpapering, opt for peel-and-stick wallpaper that can be easily swapped out when you tire of the look.
- Consider using DIY craftwork like crochet, macramé and tatting to accessorise.
- Antique furniture should be given pride of place in a room, to draw attention to the fine details. Try not to overcrowd your spaces.
- You can add old fashioned charm to any room by displaying a few choice pieces from that era, like decorative china plates on the wall, or black and white portraits with gilt-edged frames on the side table.
When you blend the old and the new, your home will never go out of style. Choose home interiors that speak to your heart and reflect your personality, and you’re sure to have a home that you’ll love more and more every day!
This article is contributed by Dipti Das, AVP-Design, HomeLane.com.
(The views expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of RoofandFloor)
