Elegant living room, beige tile flooring, striped couch with throw pillows, tall dark wood bar table, pendant lights, wall-mounted decorative plates

12 Old School Things People Did to Make Their Home Feel Fancy Again

When it comes to making a home feel inviting and luxurious, many people look back at classic design elements that once graced the most elegant spaces. These old school touches can evoke nostalgia and enhance the overall atmosphere of your living environment.

Incorporating some of these vintage features can transform your home into a charming and sophisticated haven.

Conversation Pits

Mid-century modern living room, sunken conversation pit with colorful cushions, glass coffee tables, upright piano, grand piano, bookshelves, large houseplants, modern art on walls
Image credit: Balthazar Korab – Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

Conversation pits were a unique home feature that gained popularity in the 1970s. These sunken spaces created an inviting atmosphere for socializing, often with built-in cushioned seating.

You might remember seeing them in retro movies or homes. They provide a cozy area for friends and family to gather, fostering intimate conversations.

Although they fell out of style, conversation pits are making a comeback. Many are reintroducing this nostalgic design into modern homes, giving a nod to simpler times.

Mirrored walls

Image Credit: Un-Cruise Adventures, CC by SA 3.0/Wikimedia Commons.

Mirrored walls can instantly elevate the appearance of your space. They reflect light and create an illusion of a larger room.

You can consider adding a single mirrored wall or using mirrored panels for a unique touch.

These features were once seen as luxury and status symbols, bringing a sense of elegance to homes.

Incorporating mirrored elements can complement your decor and make your home feel more upscale.

Freestanding Bathtubs

Freestanding clawfoot bathtub, marble tile walls and floors, wooden framed window, white towels, wicker basket, bathroom bench
Image credit: William LeMond/Pexels.

Freestanding bathtubs bring a touch of elegance to your bathroom. They stand alone, adding a sculptural quality that enhances any décor.

These tubs come in various styles, from classic clawfoot designs to sleek, modern shapes. You can choose one that suits your taste and complements your space.

Imagine soaking in a deep tub, surrounded by candles and soothing decor. It transforms your bathroom into a relaxing retreat. Adding decorative items like vases or candles nearby makes the atmosphere even cozier.

Incorporating a freestanding bathtub can elevate the overall feel of your home, making it more inviting and luxurious.

Canopy Beds with Matching Linen

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 add a touch of elegance to your bedroom. They create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that many find appealing.

Choosing matching linen enhances this effect. Soft, coordinated fabrics can transform the space into a dreamy retreat.

Whether you prefer classic or modern styles, there are options for everyone. Consider draping sheer fabrics to allow light to filter through while still providing privacy.

Adding some decorative pillows can also elevate the look. Canopy beds with matching linen are a simple way to make your home feel luxurious and stylish.

Stone elements in decor

Modern bathroom with arched stone wall accents, wall-mounted toilet, vessel sink on white vanity, large mirror, decorative lighting, indoor plant on shelf
Image credit: Joey Galang/ Pexels.

Incorporating stone elements into your decor can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. You might consider using a large stone slab as a coffee table or adding stone accents to your countertops.

Textured stone walls can create a stunning focal point in any room. Even small stone decorations, like coasters or picture frames, can elevate your space.

Using stone in your decor connects your home to natural elements, making it feel more inviting. It’s a simple way to enhance the overall aesthetic and bring a sense of luxury to your environment.

Bicentennial/Colonial Decorations

Armchairs, a Sofa and a Rug in a Vintage Living Room, Vintage-style sitting room with wooden ceiling, large windows, antique furniture
Image credit: Joel Zar / Pexels

You can bring a touch of history to your home with Bicentennial and colonial decorations. Think red, white, and blue colors as a nod to patriotism.

Consider accenting your space with antique furniture that reflects classic American styles.

Items like colonial-style candle holders and wall art showcasing American symbols can enhance the look.

This style not only expresses national pride but also adds a warm, inviting atmosphere to any room.

Vintage Drawer Pulls

Antique brass drawer pull, ornate backplate with tribal face engraving, decorative etched detailing, two mounting holes, curved handle
Image credit: Auckland Museum – CC BY 4.0/Wiki Commons.

Adding vintage drawer pulls to your furniture can instantly elevate the look of your home. These decorative elements come in various styles, materials, and finishes, offering a unique charm.

You can find options that range from classic brass to ornate designs. They are a simple way to refresh your cabinets and drawers without a complete renovation.

You might enjoy browsing selections on platforms like Etsy. Vintage pulls not only enhance aesthetics but also bring a touch of history into your space.

Earth Tone Color Schemes

Yellow armchair near fireplace, pine trees and garland decor, candles on mantel, cozy holiday living room setup
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Using earth tones can transform your space into a cozy and inviting sanctuary. These colors, like warm browns and serene greens, create a calming atmosphere that feels grounded and connected to nature.

Consider blending hues such as soft taupe, muted sage, and deep terracotta. This palette not only enhances the beauty of your home but adds a touch of warmth and sophistication.

Incorporating these shades can evoke a sense of tranquility, making your living areas feel more luxurious. You can experiment by pairing different earth tones to create a harmonious look throughout your home.

Thrifted Vintage Accents

Vintage-style interior with framed portraits on a dark green wall, ornate gold frames surrounding artwork of historical figures, unique bronze statue lamp of a kneeling figure
Image credit: Magda Ehlers/ Pexel.

Thrifted vintage accents can add character to your home. These unique pieces bring charm and warmth, often telling stories of their past.

You might find beautiful old wall art, stylish furniture, or quirky decor items at thrift stores. Each item can reflect your personal style and make your space feel more inviting.

Incorporating these finds into your home creates a cozy atmosphere. Whether you choose a vintage lamp or a reclaimed wood table, each piece contributes to a distinctive, elegant touch. Embrace the hunt, and enjoy the creativity that comes with thrifted treasures!

Classic wallpaper designs

Hands applying retro orange, black, and white patterned wallpaper to a white wall, close-up view
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Classic wallpaper designs can transform your home by adding charm and personality. Think about patterns like damask or floral, which evoke a timeless elegance.

You might enjoy bold stripes or intricate chinoiserie for a more dramatic look. These designs can create a feeling of luxury without overwhelming your space.

Consider using vintage wallpaper to bring a sense of nostalgia into your rooms. It’s an easy way to elevate your décor and make your home feel truly special.

Open-concept floor plans

Modern open-concept living room with a beige sectional sofa, round coffee table on a patterned rug, floating wooden staircase with white accents, warm ambient lighting
Imaged credit: Vecislavas Popa/ Pexel.

Open-concept floor plans became popular for their ability to create a sense of space and light in your home. They allow for a seamless flow between living areas, making it easy to entertain guests or keep an eye on kids while cooking.

This layout encourages interaction, as spaces like the kitchen, dining, and living rooms are interconnected. You can enjoy a more spacious feel without the barriers typical of older designs. Open concepts also provide flexibility in how you arrange furniture, allowing you to personalize your space.

Chandeliers in the Living Room

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Chandeliers can transform your living room into a stylish and elegant space. They serve as a focal point and can enhance the overall ambiance of the room.

When choosing a chandelier, consider its size and style to match your décor. A well-placed chandelier can create a warm and inviting atmosphere for family gatherings.

Don’t hesitate to switch out lightbulbs for a more natural glow; it can make your chandelier look even more stunning. Whether vintage or modern, a chandelier adds that special touch to your home.