When you think of 80s home trends, you probably think of bold, experimental design choices. But while they may have been considered cutting-edge back then, some of these trends now feel impractical or just plain dated. The ‘80s certainly gave us some fun and nostalgic styles, but if your home is starting to feel like it’s stuck in the past, it might be time to say goodbye to these trends.
Popcorn Ceilings
If you were around in the ‘80s, you’ll know that popcorn ceilings were absolutely everywhere. They offered a quick and cheap way to cover any imperfections. But now, most people see them as a major eyesore. Beyond their dated look, they’re hard to clean and often contain asbestos in older homes. To make your home feel more modern and clean, it’s better to go for smooth, flat ceilings instead.
Mauve Overload
The soft, dusty pinkish-purple color of mauve was all the rage in ‘80s interiors, which is why it was used on everything from walls to sofas. At the time, it was considered chic and sophisticated, but these days… not so much. The overuse of mauve typically comes across as dated and dull. Modern homeowners tend to lean toward more versatile, neutral shades that feel fresher and pair better with contemporary decor.
Vertical Blinds
Once the go-to for covering large windows and sliding doors, vertical blinds were just about everywhere in the ‘80s. Sure, they were functional in some ways, but their clunky design and tendency to break or tangle made them less than ideal.
Today’s homeowners prefer more streamlined options like roller shades, plantation shutters, or airy curtains for all the functionality you need and a nice polished feel.
Glass Block Walls
Glass blocks were an iconic signature of many ‘80s homes, used to divide spaces or add a bit of “modern flair.” However, they’re far from a modern choice these days. While they provide a nice combination of light and privacy, they now feel bulky and outdated compared to more minimalist design trends. Open layouts or sleek frosted glass are seen as better choices in the 2020s.
Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
During the ‘80s, wall-to-wall carpeting was seen as the epitome of luxury, and you could commonly find them in bold colors or busy patterns. Fast forward to today, and you’re much less likely to find it at all. It’s more likely to be replaced with hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring, which are easier to clean and maintain.
Sure, carpeting in bedrooms is still popular, but entire homes covered in it feel like a relic of the past.
Pastel Bathrooms
Pastel might be making a comeback, but not really when it comes to bathroom palette choices. While light pink and baby blue were popular choices for bathroom tiles, sinks, and tubs during the ‘80s, these pastel tones now feel outdated and hard to coordinate with modern styles. White or neutral bathrooms are much more popular for their timeless appeal and clean look.
Lace Curtains
Lace curtains were a popular choice in many ‘80s homes, often seen together with heavy valances and matching drapery. Although they provided a touch of elegance back then, their fussy, overly formal look hasn’t aged too well. Simple, sheer panels or minimalist blinds are now the go-to for achieving a more modern vibe.
Country-Style Kitchens
The ‘80s saw a wave of country-inspired kitchens, complete with wooden cabinetry, gingham patterns, and rooster-themed decor. While they sure felt cozy at the time, this style now feels more busy and outdated than anything else. Instead, sleek, minimalist kitchens with clean lines and neutral tones are much more in demand today.
Faux Finishes
Do you remember those sponge-painted walls and faux marble surfaces from ‘80s homes? They were super popular back then because they added texture and personality at an affordable price, but sadly, these faux looks haven’t stood the test of time. Nowadays, people prefer authentic materials like real stone, wood, or even smooth painted walls.
Floral Sofas
Believe it or not, floral patterns were seen as trendy in ‘80s furniture, especially when it came to oversized, pastel designs on bulky sofas. However, nowadays, you’d be called outdated and tacky for picking out a sofa like that. Modern homeowners tend to gravitate toward solid-colored or subtly textured furniture that’s easier to decorate around.
Shiny Brass Fixtures
If you’re an ‘80s kid, you’ll know that shiny brass was everywhere back then—from faucets and light fixtures to cabinet handles. It’s true that brass has made a comeback in recent years, but the overly shiny finishes of the past still feel gaudy by today’s standards. Brushed or matte brass options are now preferred for their subtle and sophisticated appeal.
Carpeted Bathrooms
Yes, you read that right—carpeting in bathrooms was an actual thing in the ‘80s. It was meant to add a sense of warmth and comfort, but if you’re squirming at the very idea of it, you’re not alone. Today, the idea of a fabric floor in a damp environment feels downright gross for most people. Carpeted bathrooms are also more likely to develop issues with mold and mildew.
Oversized Entertainment Centers
If you experienced the ‘80s yourself, I’m sure you don’t miss being in the era of bulky, poor-quality TVs and stereo systems. Back then, large wooden entertainment centers were a must-have in every living room. But while they were practical at the time, their clunky size and dated appearance don’t fit with today’s sleek, minimalist designs.
Wallpaper Borders
You can still find wallpaper borders featuring floral patterns or whimsical designs in some homes today, but certainly not as many as back in the ‘80s. Unfortunately, to most people, they now look dated and can make a space feel smaller or more cluttered. A fresh coat of paint or an accent wall with modern wallpaper is a far more appealing choice in the 2020s.
Mirrored Walls
If you were born in the last three decades, the idea of mirrored walls might sound utterly bizarre. But back in the good old days, they were often used to make rooms look larger and more glamorous. Alas, today, their shiny, reflective surfaces can feel overwhelming and dated. While mirrors are still used strategically in modern design, covering an entire wall is no longer a go-to trend.
Ruffled Bedding
In the ‘80s, it was hard to resist the appeal of flouncy, ruffled bedding, especially in pastel or floral patterns. While people thought it added a touch of romance back then, today’s bedding trends lean toward clean lines and simple, neutral tones. Modern homeowners usually prefer crisp duvets or cozy quilts.
Colored Appliances
Yep, it’s time to leave those avocado green and harvest gold appliances in the past, where they belong. These seemingly strange color choices were a signature look of the ‘80s kitchen. While they made a statement, these hues feel out of place in today’s sleek and neutral kitchens.
Wood Paneling
Did you know that wood paneling, especially the dark, faux-wood kind, was a staple in ‘80s living rooms? While it added warmth back then, it now feels dark and outdated. Today, it’s more common to paint over old paneling or replace it with drywall to brighten up spaces and create a more modern feel.