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1980s Home Renovation and Design Ideas For a Nostalgic Makeover
by Jane Duncan, freelance writer
Nov 7 2021
Glass walls, windows, and more
While the popular glass brick walls of the 80s aren’t often seen today, there are ways that you can incorporate such a design into your own home. For example, floor to ceiling windows or glass walls are a great way to not only bring back the same style in a more modern and contemporary way, but they can really open up a space in your home while bringing in a lot of natural lighting, too.
Memphis Design — a trend for the whole family
Created back in 1981 by an Italian design group, Memphis Design is a standard classic of the 80s, and was seen in a variety of different settings. With iconic examples seen in Pee Wee’s Playhouse, the classic MTV logo, and the intro of Saved by the Bell, there’s no question that the bright, clashing colours and geometric shapes bring back memories of the decade.
When it comes to incorporating the design trend into a home renovation, however, there are many options worth considering. Patterned throw pillows or blankets are just one way that you can bring a bit of the style into your home, while options for a broader depiction of the style can include abstract art pieces or brightly painted walls with clashing colours.
If you happen to be moving to a new home with your family, you can certainly make redecorating the place a fun event for everyone, especially since moving can be particularly difficult for children. In fact, kids who move many times during childhood are more likely to experience mental health problems, according to a study of 50,000 children carried out by researchers at Queens University Belfast.
A touch of the 80s via cabinetry
If you’ve set foot into a kitchen in the 80s, you’re sure to recall honey oak cabinets. A warm, orange toned wooden look, these cabinets were an iconic staple in 80s home design, and can easily be brought back if you’re looking to renovate your kitchen. In fact, HGTV star Tyler Wisler recalls such cabinetry, stating “They just reek of acid-washed jeans, big perms, and Sweatin’ to the Oldies,” highlighting just how prominent of a role this style of cabinetry played. While styles of today lean more towards white or black coloured cabinetry, the golden toned honey oak style can still look good in anyone’s kitchen who wishes to implement a nostalgic twist.
There’s no doubt that there are many interior design trends that are worth bringing back to today’s homes. If you’re planning on renovating, considering those like Memphis Design, Lucite, or even the installation of honey oak cabinets are all worthwhile considerations that are sure to remind you of the 80s.
