Design Throwback: Old Trends That Are Now Popular in Modern Homes

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Blast from the past.

Just like fashion, interior design trends are ever-evolving. We see fresh ones making their debut, overused ones bidding farewell, and several trends from the past making their way back in. Interior designers often see past designs as iconic and try to bring them back while giving them a modern twist to make them fit today's generation.

If you’re renovating your home, check out these latest interior design trends that are making a comeback that you might want to include in your own home!

1. Gold accents

Decorating with gold reached a peak in the 1980s, when making bold and showy statements with these materials was in line with opulent styles that marked a relatively prosperous age. The trend fell out of favour when interior designers and homeowners began to regard such extravagance as tone-deaf and tacky.

But if the homes we’re seeing these days are any indication, gold is making a resurgence. And unlike in the past, where gold was applied more extensively throughout the interior (e.g. furniture inlaid with gold leafs, gilded mirrors, gold framed paintings), today’s homeowners would incorporate gold into their homes in a more subtle manner, such as as accents for lighting fixtures, hardware, or decorative pieces, as seen in this modern bungalow.

2. Terrazzo

Terrazzo, a composite material composed of marble, quartz, granite, or glass fragments placed in concrete, was fashionable during the height of our adoration for mid-20th-century modern decor. It was a popular flooring material during this time period because of its monolithic, modern, and minimalist appearance. But just like other trends, terrazzo fell out of fashion in the 1990s as other flooring materials, such as vinyl and carpet, gained favour.

Today, terrazzo is regaining popularity due to its durability, adaptability, and aesthetic appeal. It now comes in a variety of hues and patterns and can complement a wide range of designs, from contemporary to eclectic. In addition to flooring, terrazzo is used in a wide range of applications, including worktops, furniture, and accessories. Take a cue from this bathroom, which features black and white terrazzo that adds an exquisite touch to the space!

3. Rattan and cane furniture

Growing up, chances are you had at least one piece of rattan or cane furniture in your home (or your grandparents' home). While it was popular in the 1960s and 1970s, its popularity did not last long because, in the early 20th century, rattan was replaced by a more affordable option, plastic.

These materials, however, are making a resurgence and are currently popular among homeowners who want to create coastal, boho, Japandi, and nature-inspired homes. Homeowners love rattan and cane because of their natural and organic textures, which add warmth and a laid-back feel to a space.

4. Wallpaper

Wallpaper flourished in the 1970s and 1980s, when everyone turned to this material for their rooms with over-the-top flowery designs, and no expense was spared. However, during the 1990s and early 2000s, wallpaper was considered out of date and unfashionable for the then-current design trends.

Today, wallpaper is gradually making its way back into our homes. But unlike the cringeworthy floral patterns (unless that's your taste!) of the 1980s, modern wallpaper is more practical and can cater to a wide range of interior designs, from industrial to contemporary. They are also an excellent way to create feature walls in a room and come in a variety of styles, such as geometrical patterns, landscapes, scenery, abstract shapes, and even nature-inspired themes.

Today, you can even buy wallpaper that can be installed and removed on your own, making it a suitable option for renters or those who like to refresh their home styles every now and then.

5. Statement tile patterns

Patterned tiles, which were commonly linked with vintage or retro styles, were popular in the past, particularly in mid-20th-century designs. These tiles featured intricate geometric patterns, vibrant colours, and unique designs that reflected the design sensibilities of their respective eras. However, as minimalism and monochromatic colour palettes gained prominence, patterned tiles quickly fell out of favour.

Patterned tiles are popular again today, although they are used sparingly to bring pops of colour to a space. They are frequently used as a flooring material to visually divide a space or as a gorgeous backdrop (backsplash) to break up a monotone environment.

TIP: If you want to try out interesting, patterned tiles but are scared you might regret it later, start with your laundry room. If you don't like it, no biggie, since it’s not a room guests will see!

6. Arches

Arches, a popular feature in the 1920s, were previously used to provide aesthetic appeal to a home. This style movement, however, swiftly fell out of vogue during World War II, when it was replaced with post-war architecture, which emphasised more utilitarian features such as boxy edges and clear lines.

Fast forward to the present, and it appears that everyone wants to incorporate arches into their new home. They are currently a staple in interior design trends, and homeowners love them because they are seen as unique elements that can add visual height and interest to any space. On top of that, arches can seamlessly blend with a variety of design styles, from classical to contemporary.

Today, arches can be found not just on windows and room entrances but also in various design details such as mirrors, niches, alcoves, and even feature walls, as seen in the living room below.

7. Round-edge and curvy furniture

Similar to arches, round-edged or curvy furniture is a popular choice among homeowners today. It used to be especially popular back in the 1980s, after which the fluid designs started getting replaced with more angular ones. Today, interior designers are reintroducing curves into their work, marrying modernity with the retro fluidity of these pieces.

Homeowners are favouring rounded or curving contours in their furniture selection/design or built-ins because it creates an inviting and more organic, laid-back feel to a space.

8. Wall panelling

Wood-panelled walls were an era-defining trend throughout the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. It was popular at the time because it was affordable and easy to install. However, the 1980s saw the introduction of new trends in interior design and construction, such as glass blocks, which made wood-panelled walls less appealing.

Lately, wall panelling has made a resurgence in style and has become a sought-after element for living rooms, bedrooms, or French-inspired homes. And unlike the outdated wall panels from the 1970s, modern wall panelling now embraces a contemporary approach through the introduction of board and batten, shiplap, or tongue and groove designs.

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