Everything Old is…Back in Style!

February 12, 2019

Design trends are fickle and seem to go out of style about as fast as they come in. But something our mothers learned long before we did – everything old is new again. Which means eventually, if you hold onto things long enough, furniture, colors and even pop culture products will boomerang back into popularity and you’ll be so retro you’re on fleek.

Some retro decor trends from the 50s are always at home in a mid-century modern home, but today the last several decades have contributed trendy designs to the interiors of forward-thinking designers. Take a look at some of the latest retro paint, furniture and accessories we found around the web.

Retro Avocado Green 

While a cultural revolution was exploding during the 60s, a color revolution was taking place in American homes. Avocado Green, Burnt Sienna and Harvest Gold were all the rage through the late 70s and appeared on walls, and in bathtubs, sinks and appliances. Now the names are new, sort of, like Retro Avocado and Nasturtium but the colors are REALLY similar. They haven’t started making green toilets again (Thunder Grey, yes, Avocado, no – but you can get different colored seats!), but Home Depot carries red freezers and blue ranges (for a mere $4769).

Manufacturers are pushing the retro theme – if conservatively. And judging from designer combinations, the darker colors are offset by lighter and brighter and the effect is aesthetically up-to-date.

Good Ol’ Gossip Benches

Back in the day, these telephone tables (aka gossip benches or telephone benches) were all the rage and now they can be glammed up (thank you Etsy artists) with a little restoration and recovering.  The rotary phones once perched on the table side, while the comfy seating gave talkers a place to carry on a phone conversation since the equipment wasn’t portable! 

While you can find the vintage item on eBay, Overstock carries replicas that feature cushioned seats and wire-brushed wood, with drawers to store real phones, cell phones, or assorted odds and ends.

Bob Vila collected nine more home products that are back in style and fun to scroll through; everything from witch hazel and paper straws to Edison light bulbs and Polaroid cameras.

Clever Curvy Furniture 

Curved sofas have been dominating the décor trends for some time now, and they’re definitely a throwback to the 80s. If you’re looking to invest in a statement piece of furniture that pays homage to retro trends, take a look at the curvy couches that are sporting trendy velvet upholstery, beautiful boucle and even bold buffalo checks.

Wall-to-Wall Murphy Beds 

Murphy beds, also known as fold-down beds, wall beds, or pull-down beds have been around for more than 100 years and have evolved to include lighting and storage cabinets. Installing wall beds in a room has as an way to accommodate additional overnight guests, or make room for more play space in a child’s bedroom.

Scan the options for wall bed furniture from Wayfair, Overstock, and Costco, or check out 12 DIY Murphy bed projects (including kits from Lori Wall beds).

Wallpaper is Way Back!

Wallpaper has truly made a comeback. We talked to one paper hanger who was booked so far in advance, he could barely take any more business! Homeowners are experimenting with today’s florals and big, bold prints in every room of the house. You can try a retro pattern, or one that’s thoroughly modern. Start with an accent wall and see how you like it!

Retro in Southshore?

What’s retro about the master-planned community of Southshore? The importance of family, the quiet neighborhoods and convenient access to dining, shopping and all kinds of amenities. Experience Life at the Lake by touring the beautiful model homes from Century Communities, Richmond American Homes and Toll Brothers. Available in ranch and two-story designs, Southshore homes are priced between the $400s and the $700s.