As we celebrate 40 years of remodeling Montgomery and Bucks County homes, we’ve been thinking a lot about how dramatically design trends have changed.
The homes we work on today are a lot different than those in our 1982 beginnings — but then again, so are trends in general! Leg warmers. Big hair. Hulk Hogan. The 80s were colorful, loud, and unapologetic. The trends from this era — some of which we miss, and some we wish we could forget — are unique and unmistakable. Here’s a flashback to 6 home design trends from the 80s that might even be in your Montgomery County home today:
Heavy Drapes
Heavy, extravagant drapes complete with matching valances and tiebacks were commonplace in a 1980s family room. Whether in bold colors or graced with ornate embroidery, these window treatments were made to be grand.
Hanging Cabinets
We’re all for more storage space, but hanging cabinets are less than ideal. These 1980s staples were suspended from the ceiling, usually over a peninsula. Unfortunately, they also forced anyone in the kitchen to crouch down or peer around the corner if they wanted to see or speak to someone in another room.
Pastel Colors
Before Memphis style and primary colors took over toward the end of the decade, pastel colors had a moment. Pale pinks, blues, and seafoam greens were found on walls, furniture, bedding, and even wall-to-wall carpet.
Formica Counters
These plastic-topped counters were big in 80s kitchens but had just a *few* drawbacks. Unlike today’s durable materials, they had to be treated delicately. A hot coffee pot or spilled wine could damage them easily, and once a corner was lifted, the whole thing could be peeled apart.
Dark Cabinets & Furniture
Cabinets, dressers, kitchen tables, and bulky entertainment centers were typically solid wood with a dark stain made nice and shiny (and very well protected) with several layers of varnish. These pieces were sturdy and built to last, but their style wasn’t. We often replace these heavy fixtures with lighter pieces that make rooms feel open and airy.
Brass Fixtures
The gold accents and hardware making a comeback in today’s bathroom and kitchen décor might feel reminiscent of the 1980s, but fixtures in that era were much more bold and brassy. Homeowners during this time enjoyed the ornate, luxurious look — and, of course, the opportunity for some flashy focal points.
Is your home stuck in the 80s? We can help. Our designers have a sixth sense about which trends will pass the test of time and which fads will quickly fade. If you have 80s décor you need to update, or if you’d like to bring back some (modernized) trends, contact us.
