Top 7+ Old Trends That Are Back in Style

Retro Color Palettes Transform Every Corner

Walk into a room washed in avocado green or burnt orange, and you’ll feel it—a jolt of nostalgia paired with newfound energy. Designers are reviving these bold hues from the ‘60s and ‘70s, but with a modern wink.

Instead of overwhelming a space, today’s pros recommend using retro colors for accent walls, kitchen cabinets, or even a single velvet chair. Picture a deep mustard armchair against a crisp white wall: it instantly feels curated and inviting.

Zillow reports that homes with distinctive color pops stand out in listings, often selling faster. Homeowners love how these shades deliver warmth and personality without feeling stuffy.

Choose one retro color and let it shine in a room for maximum impact. You might be surprised how much a single bold hue can lift your mood on a gray day.

Vintage Furniture Finds Make Every Space Unique

A single thrifted credenza or mid-century armchair can tell a story no big-box piece ever could. Vintage furniture is storming back, not just for its charm but for its eco-friendly appeal and unbeatable character.

Designers urge clients to mix eras—think a ‘50s brass lamp beside a sleek modern couch. This gives rooms a lived-in, layered vibe that feels intentional rather than chaotic.

According to Houzz, listings mentioning “vintage” or “original details” can attract more buyers and higher offers. Even a small hallway console with a patinaed finish can become a conversation starter.

The hunt itself is half the fun, whether you’re combing flea markets or scrolling online auctions. There’s a thrill in finding that one piece that no one else has, making your home feel truly yours.

Wallpaper Returns as an Artistic Power Move

Forget the bland beige of yesteryear—today’s wallpaper comes in punchy florals, bold geometrics, and textured metallics. Designers love using wallpaper for “wow” moments in powder rooms, entryways, or even ceilings.

It’s a way to inject instant drama and depth without structural changes. A tiny guest bath, wrapped in a moody botanical print, can suddenly feel like a jewel box.

Experts see wallpaper as a “risk with reward,” since it’s removable but leaves a lasting impression. According to interior stager Tina Ramchandani, “Wallpaper is the jewelry of a room—it can make even a plain space unforgettable.” Choose patterns that reflect your personality, whether you crave serenity or a splash of wild energy.

Even one accent wall can make a whole home feel more luxe.

Open Shelving Lets Collections Shine Bright

Open shelving has returned, bringing both style and a little day-to-day accountability. This trend lets you display your favorite cookbooks, ceramics, or plants, turning storage into a self-expression showcase.

Designers warn that open shelves demand a thoughtful touch; clutter can quickly kill the look. Think of it like curating a tiny museum—group items by color, add greenery, and leave breathing room between objects.

Real estate agents say kitchens with open shelving can feel larger and more inviting in photos, a subtle trick that boosts buyer interest. Homeowners love the freedom to swap out displays with the seasons or moods.

Even a single open shelf in a hallway or bathroom can add life and interest, making daily routines feel a little more special.

Textured Fabrics and Cozy Layering Steal the Scene

Velvet, linen, boucle, and wool are taking over from basic cotton and polyester. Layering textures isn’t just a style statement; it turns a house into a retreat you want to sink into.

Designers recommend mixing at least three different textures per room—imagine a plush velvet pillow on a nubby linen sofa, anchored by a chunky knit throw. This creates depth and coziness that feels both rich and approachable.

According to staging studies, homes with visible layering in living rooms and bedrooms photograph better and linger less on the market. Even a small change, like swapping flat curtains for textured ones, can make a room feel more expensive.

The tactile pleasure of running your hand over a velvet cushion can lift your spirits after a long day.

Statement Lighting Captures Every Gaze

Lighting isn’t just about brightness—it’s about drama, personality, and even resale value. Oversized chandeliers, sculptural pendants, and vintage-inspired sconces are everywhere this year.

Designers treat lighting as the “crown jewel” of any space. A single show-stopping fixture can anchor a dining room or entryway, drawing the eye upward and making ceilings feel higher.

Zillow data shows listings that highlight unique lighting tend to get more attention and often sell for more. Even swapping a builder-grade fixture for a bold, retro-inspired pendant can change the entire feel of a room.

The interplay of light and shadow adds dimension, making spaces feel more dynamic and alive.

Biophilic Design Connects Indoors to Nature

Bringing nature inside is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle shift proven to boost well-being. Biophilic design uses plants, natural wood, stone, and sunlight to create a calm, grounded atmosphere.

Studies from the American Society of Interior Designers show that homes with strong natural elements report higher satisfaction and less stress for occupants. Even simple changes—like adding a cluster of potted herbs to a kitchen window or using a reclaimed wood coffee table—can make a subtle but powerful impact.

Designers often use greenery as a “living accent,” replacing lifeless decor with thriving, air-purifying plants. Biophilic touches invite relaxation and creativity, turning your home into a true sanctuary.

Classic Patterns Find New Life in Modern Spaces

Houndstooth, plaid, and toile are no longer reserved for grandma’s parlor. These classic patterns are popping up in fresh, unexpected ways—think plaid wallpaper in a bathroom or houndstooth pillows on a sleek leather sofa.

Designers stress that the secret is scale and color: oversized checks in muted tones feel modern, not old-fashioned. Mixing patterns within a single palette gives rooms a custom, designer feel without overwhelming the senses.

Staging pros say that classic patterns add just enough visual interest to make spaces memorable in listing photos. Even a simple stripe can stretch a room visually, making ceilings seem taller or hallways longer.

Curved Shapes Soften Every Room’s Mood

Round edges, arched doorways, and curved sofas are sweeping through interiors, replacing the sharp angles of past decades. Designers say that curves create a sense of flow and relaxation, subconsciously signaling comfort.

Even a single round mirror or circular coffee table can break up a boxy room, making it feel more inviting. According to Houzz’s 2025 trend report, curved furniture and architectural details have seen a 32% spike in searches this year.

Homeowners love how soft shapes feel approachable and fresh, especially when paired with natural materials or bold colors. The effect is subtle but powerful—curves invite you to linger and unwind.

Gallery Walls Personalize and Energize Spaces

Gallery walls have returned, but this time with more freedom and personality. Instead of stiff, matching frames, designers encourage mixing art, family photos, and even 3D objects for a layered look.

A hallway lined with a mix of vintage prints, modern paintings, and sculptural pieces feels vibrant and unique. Experts advise tracing your layout on the floor before hanging, ensuring balance and variety.

Staging research shows gallery walls can make homes feel more “lived in” and emotionally engaging—buyers often linger longer in rooms that tell a visual story. This trend lets you showcase your journey, passions, or quirks, making your space truly feel like home.