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12 Old-School Home Trends That Are Back in Style

June 23, 2025516Views

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Home trends can be as fickle as fashion, with styles coming and going and then coming back again. In recent years, we’ve seen the return of several old-school home trends that have been given a fresh, modern spin. From vintage furniture to retro patterns, these throwbacks are all about nostalgia, comfort and charm. Here are 12 old-school home trends that are back in style and ready to make a statement in your home.

1. Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Vintage wooden furniture set, including a mid-century style table, chairs, and a tall chest of drawers, arranged against a neutral-toned wall with tiled flooring — Image Credit: Fujiphilm/Unsplash.

This design movement from the mid-20th century that emphasizes clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and functionality is back in a big way. Mid-century modern furniture pieces, such as Eames chairs and Noguchi tables, are being sought-after for their timeless design. They blend seamlessly into contemporary spaces, adding a touch of vintage charm without feeling outdated. Plus, their focus on craftsmanship ensures they’ll stand the test of time.

2. Floral Wallpaper

Clothing iron standing upright on an ironing board with green patterned cover, white fabric beside it, orange floral retro wallpaper in background — Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Gone are the days when floral wallpapers were considered grandma-ish. Today, they’re making a major comeback, and it’s not hard to see why. Floral wallpaper adds a touch of romance and whimsy to any room, and it’s a great way to inject personality into your space. Whether you opt for a big, bold pattern or something more delicate, floral wallpaper can create a stunning focal point.

3. Brass Accents

Luxury bathroom with marble mosaic walls featuring gold vine pattern, brass fixtures, built-in shelving, and white bathrobes — Image Credit: Sarah O’Shea/Pexels.

Brass is back and better than ever. This versatile material adds warmth and elegance to any space. From brass light fixtures to brass drawer pulls, these accents can give your home a touch of vintage glamour. Don’t be afraid to mix brass with other metals either, as this can create a layered, eclectic look.

4. Shiplap Walls

Cozy loft room with sloped wooden ceiling, gray sofa bed, light wood flooring, soft curtains, modern lighting — Image credit: Max Vakhtbovycn/ Pexels.

Thanks to popular home renovation shows, shiplap walls have made a major comeback. These boards add texture and rustic charm to any room, and they’re a great way to add character to a modern, minimalist space. Plus, shiplap can be painted any color, so it can easily adapt to any design style.

5. Terrazzo Flooring

Terrazzo flooring, polished surface, multicolored stone chips, speckled pattern, smooth finish, durable composite material, decorative interior design element. — Image Credit: CASA39/ebay.

Terrazzo, a composite material of marble chips set in concrete, was a popular flooring choice in the 1970s. Now, it’s making a comeback for its durability, low maintenance, and unique aesthetic. Its speckled pattern adds interest and texture to a room, and it can easily be paired with a variety of color schemes.

6. Canopy Beds

Canopy bed with white curtains, carved wooden headboard, white bedding, grey accent pillows, modern pendant lights, minimalistic bedroom decor — Image Credit: Keegan Checks/Pexels.

Canopy beds were once a symbol of grandeur and luxury, and they’re staging a comeback in modern bedrooms. They provide a sense of privacy and coziness, and they can make a strong design statement. Whether you choose a traditional four-poster bed or a modern, minimalist design, a canopy bed can add a touch of drama and elegance to your bedroom.

7. Wicker and Rattan Furniture

Wicker and rattan furniture, woven natural fibers, light brown finish, curved armrests, cushioned seating, rustic aesthetic, tropical design style, indoor or patio use — Image Credit: pammycakes56/ebay.

Popular in the ’70s and ’80s, wicker and rattan furniture are enjoying a resurgence. Their natural, woven texture adds warmth and interest to a space, and they’re a great way to bring a touch of the outdoors in. From wicker chairs to rattan side tables, these pieces can add a laid-back, boho vibe to your home.

8. Subway Tiles

Couple holding a tile sample against a kitchen wall while discussing backsplash options — Image Credit: Pexels.

Subway tiles, named for their use in New York City’s subway stations in the early 20th century, have been a staple in kitchens and bathrooms for years. Their clean lines and timeless appeal make them a great choice for those looking to add a touch of vintage charm to their space.

9. Freestanding Bathtubs

Freestanding bathtubs are making a big splash in bathroom design. They’re a nod to the past, but with modern materials and designs, they fit perfectly into contemporary spaces. A freestanding tub can be a stunning focal point in a bathroom, adding a sense of luxury and relaxation.

10. Velvet Furniture

Two modern grey upholstered chairs with wooden legs, placed in the corner of a room with wooden flooring, one chair has a black hat resting on its backrest, yellow and white painted walls in the background — Image Credit: Steve Johnson/Pexels.

Velvet, once seen as old-fashioned and stuffy, is now viewed as a luxurious and comforting fabric. A velvet sofa or chair adds a touch of opulence to a room, and its rich texture can make even the simplest space feel cozy and inviting.

11. Checkerboard Floors

Person in dark clothing sits in dimly lit room with black-and-white checkered floor, wearing striking yellow pointed shoes — Image Credit: Kamaji Ogino/Pexels.

This classic floor pattern is making a comeback, and it’s not just for kitchens anymore. A checkerboard floor can add a graphic punch to any room, and it works with a variety of design styles, from traditional to modern.

12. Patterned Tile

Pastel-colored walls room with gray carpet, white ceiling light, and two open doorways leading to areas with different flooring — Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Patterned tile is a great way to add color and interest to a room. Whether it’s a bold, geometric pattern or a delicate, floral design, patterned tile can create a stunning visual effect. Plus, it’s a great way to add a touch of old-world charm to a modern space.