Totally Timeless: 8 Retro Decorating Tricks from the ’80s That Still Look Amazing Today
You might cringe at the thought of shag carpeting and walls in bright colors coming back into style, but the 1980s left us with more than just shoulder pads and synthpop. In fact, many of the era’s design trends were brilliant—and now they’re coming back with a vengeance.
From lacquered finishes to bold prints reminiscent of Memphis, what was once considered gaudy now feels daring and strong. Fresh interpretations by newer artists infuse renewed energy into outdated ideas, and these eight retro décor ideas prove that old is once and always new. Pillage the past—your living room will thank you for it.
Why the ’80s Still Matter
The ’80s weren’t all about appearance; they were about pushing boundaries. Design was expressive, radical, and counterintuitive. In an era craving uniqueness over perfection, that attitude is beginning to ring true in younger design enthusiasts. These styles are not just retro; they’re intentionally reimagined. The ’80s show us that design can be daring, zany, and enchanting—and that’s what makes it timeless.
1. The High Gloss Comeback
Nothing screams ’80s more than lacquer—shiny, slick, and totally fabulous. High-gloss furniture finishes were overkill, but today, they add glossy drama. When used in moderation—coffee tables, cabinetry, or accent walls—they add instant luxury, especially in smaller apartments. Advances in technology now give us better durability and environmentally friendly options, so it’s not just stylish but smart. For example, consider a dresser in deep jewel tones for a retro kick.
2. Neon, But Make It Classy
Neon lighting wasn’t confined to mall arcades—it lit up everything from nightclubs to basement hangouts. While ’80s neon was loud and on the brink of being a mess, contemporary iterations are tamer. Sculptural neon signs or softly lit art pieces offer a retro wink without suffocating a space. Bonus: its statement decor and mood lighting. It’s an adult glow.
3. Memphis Design: Still Wild, Still Right
Memphis style was once dismissed as tacky. With its riotous forms, clashing patterns, and loud color blocks, it was the height of ’80s rebelliousness. But today, designers are embracing its playful nature. A Memphis-style side table or geometric rug brings personality without chaos. It’s a graphic marriage of design and irony—a punch of humor that still feels like high design.
4. Lucite and Acrylic Magic
Transparent furniture was a big deal in the ’80s—Lucite chairs and clear coffee tables, anyone? Though it cried futuristic cool at the time, now it serves as a space-saver and style-booster. Lucite is the ultimate room-blender, providing shape without visual weight. It’s great for small rooms or tiered design plans, keeping it light while being bold. Useful and fancy? Absolutely.
5. Jungle Fever (But Make It Chic)
Floral excess wasn’t just for the Victorians—the ’80s boasted palm fronds, tropical birds, and banana plants down every corridor. Although it may have looked cartoonish back then, modern botanical prints look lively and sophisticated. Consider jungle-inspired wallpaper in an otherwise colorless room or leafy fabric mixed with sleek silhouettes. It’s a lush trip back in time with stylish, biophilic charm.
6. Glass Blocks: Brutalist Beauty Returns
Glass blocks were once the suburban standard. Bathrooms, kitchens, and even basement windows were treated to the grid-glass look. Today? Architects and designers are using them in luxury lofts and boutique hotels. They filter light, offer privacy, and add a textural rhythm to interiors. The secret today: proportion. Use them as a feature wall or divider—not a floor-to-ceiling nostalgia overload.
7. Oversized Everything: Sofa Edition
The ’80s were in excess, and nowhere did it appear more than on their giant sofas. The oversized cushions, big arms, and modular design—folks wanted to live within their sofas. Modular sectionals today are giving homage to that same comfort-driven look. A giant U-shaped sofa is not only decadent but also inviting. Netflix binges now feel so much more indulgent.
8. Statement Lighting as Sculpture
Chandeliers became flashy in the ’80s, swagged out in crystal and opulence. That legacy endures in the sculptural lighting we have now—dramatic, artful, and unstoppable. Brass Sputnik chandeliers or unbalanced gatherings of pendants spring to mind. Less style, more stating your point. Light isn’t functional these days—it’s a sculpture that serves a purpose, enhancing mood and lighting up your life.
Sources
7 Design Trends From the 1980s That Are Making a Comeback
Design Rewind: the 1980s
