If the 1970s were about earth tones and natural textures, the 1980s were a complete reversal, embracing bold colors, high-gloss finishes, and a look that can only be described as a celebration of excess. While the decade is often remembered for its outlandish fashion and big hair, its impact on interior design was just as daring. Let's dive into the era's key design elements, and explore how to bring the 80s aesthetic into modern spaces without making it feel like a time capsule.
Key Elements of 1980s Decor
The 80s were all about making a statement, and home interiors reflected that exuberant mindset. Here are some of the defining characteristics of 80s interior design:
1. Bold Colors and Contrasts
The 80s said goodbye to the earthy tones of the 70s and welcomed bold, bright hues with open arms. Neon pink, electric blue, and bright yellow were staples of the era, often used in graphic patterns and geometric designs. Black and white also became popular, particularly when paired with these neon colors, creating high contrast in everything from walls to furniture.
- Tip for Modern Use: To avoid an over-the-top look, incorporate pops of bold 80s colors in small accent pieces—like throw pillows, artwork, or lamps—while keeping the rest of the room neutral.
2. Geometric Shapes
Geometric patterns were a major hallmark of the 1980s. You could find them everywhere: from zig-zag lines on wallpaper to triangular shapes in furniture and decor. Inspired by Memphis Group design, an Italian collective of designers who revolutionized the look of the 80s, these bold shapes brought an element of playfulness and creativity to interiors.
- Tip for Modern Use: Choose a geometric rug or a statement piece of art with a geometric design to add a nod to the 80s without overwhelming the room.
3. High Gloss Finishes
In true 80s fashion, more was more. High-gloss finishes on furniture, countertops, and accessories were ubiquitous, creating a sleek, almost futuristic look. Lacquered surfaces and chrome accents were everywhere, reflecting the love for glitz and glamour.
- Tip for Modern Use: To bring the high-gloss trend into today’s homes, consider using it on a coffee table or sideboard, paired with more muted, matte pieces to create balance.
4. Mirrors, Mirrors, and More Mirrors
The 1980s also had a love affair with mirrors. Large, floor-to-ceiling mirrors and mirrored walls were common in living rooms, bedrooms, and even bathrooms. Not only did mirrors reflect light and make rooms appear larger, but they also added to the overall glamorous and sleek look of the decade.
- Tip for Modern Use: Instead of covering an entire wall in mirrors, opt for a large statement mirror with a bold frame or a series of smaller, geometric mirrors arranged in an interesting pattern.
5. Pastels and Art Deco Revival
While bold colors were a key part of 80s design, pastels—especially mauve, peach, and mint green—were just as popular. These colors were often paired with Art Deco influences, with curved furniture, metallic accents, and a sense of luxury harkening back to the 1920s.
- Tip for Modern Use: Incorporate pastel-colored furniture or soft furnishings in a more subdued way, such as with a curved sofa or Art Deco-style lamp.
6. Florals and Chintz
Floral patterns, often in exaggerated, large-scale prints, found their way into everything from drapery to upholstered furniture. Chintz—a glazed cotton fabric with floral patterns—was a key material of the time, especially in more traditional 80s homes.
- Tip for Modern Use: You can incorporate 80s-style florals in a modern room by using a floral throw or cushions, or by choosing a floral wallpaper for an accent wall.
7. Glass and Lucite Furniture
Lucite and glass furniture were major players in 80s interiors, offering a futuristic and transparent look that complemented the decade’s obsession with modernity. Glass coffee tables, Lucite chairs, and even clear dining tables were all the rage.
- Tip for Modern Use: Incorporate Lucite chairs or a glass side table in your space to give it that 80s modern edge while keeping the room light and airy.
Modern Revival of 80s Decor
Like most trends, 80s decor has made a comeback in recent years—but with a modern twist. Today, people are taking the best parts of 80s interior design (think bold accents, geometric shapes, and playful designs) and toning down the excess for a more balanced look. The resurgence of Memphis-inspired decor has brought back the fun side of 80s design, while Art Deco influences have re-emerged in a more polished, minimalist form.
Here are some practical ways to bring the 80s into your home:
- Mix 80s Elements with Minimalism: Don’t go overboard—combine a few key 80s features (like a neon piece of art or a lacquered coffee table) with minimalist, modern furniture to keep the space feeling fresh.
- Use Neon as an Accent: Incorporate neon lighting or neon accents (such as a lamp or wall art) to add a playful touch without overwhelming the space.
- Embrace Geometric Art: Hang a Memphis-style piece of artwork or a geometric mirror to inject 80s flair into a contemporary room.
Why the 1980s Still Influences Design Today
Despite the often over-the-top nature of 1980s design, its influence can still be seen in modern interiors. The bold use of color, the focus on self-expression, and the push toward new materials and finishes have all left a lasting legacy. Today’s designers often look back to the 80s for inspiration, combining retro influences with more refined, contemporary styles to create spaces that are fun, fresh, and unique.
At Tiki Treasures, we love celebrating retro design. If you're feeling nostalgic for some 80s flair, check out our Retro Home Decor collection, where you can find funky, bold pieces to liven up your space.
Conclusion: The Fun and Fearless 80s
The 1980s were a decade of fearlessness, where interiors were anything but boring. Whether you’re looking to go full-on retro or just add a few subtle nods to the past, the 80s offer a wealth of inspiration. It’s a style that celebrated individuality, creativity, and bold design—values that still resonate today.
Ready to embrace the 80s? Head over to our Retro Home Decor collection to find the perfect pieces to bring a touch of 80s magic into your home.