Couch near bed in apartment Brown color schemes wall room

12 Outdated Home Decor Items That Are Back in Style

Trends in home decor often cycle back. What was once considered outdated can become fresh and stylish again.

You might find yourself spotting familiar pieces and designs making a return. These trends offer new ways to personalize your space.

Sunken living rooms

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.

You might remember sunken living rooms as a trendy choice from past decades. These recessed spaces create a cozy, intimate spot perfect for conversations and family gatherings.

Bringing this design back lets you define your living area without walls. It adds depth and a unique architectural feature to your home.

To keep it modern, try pairing a sunken space with clean lines and contemporary furniture. It’s a neat way to make your room stand out while staying comfortable.

Textured plaster walls

Textured plaster walls
Image Credit: rawkkim / Unsplash

Textured plaster walls are making a quiet comeback in home decor. If you want to add subtle depth and character to your space, these walls offer a unique, tactile finish.

You might think smooth walls are the only way to go. Textured plaster can bring warmth and personality.

It works well with both modern and vintage styles. These walls fit nicely into your design plans.

4×4 tiles

4x4 tiles on the wall
Image Credit: TurnKey Apartments / Pexels

You might remember 4×4 tiles from older kitchens and bathrooms. They have made a quiet comeback because they are affordable and easy to work with.

These small square tiles offer a classic look that fits many styles. You can use them for backsplashes or accent walls. Their simple shape and size make them versatile for modern updates.

Dark hardwood floors

A vacuum cleaner head with a black and red design rests on a wooden floor. Sunlight streams across the hardwood planks, casting shadows. The edge of a patterned area rug is visible in the corner
Image Credit:Liliana Drew/Pexels.

Dark hardwood floors add warmth and character to your space. They bring a rich, classic look that pairs well with both modern and traditional decor.

If you want to create cozy nooks or highlight antique furniture, dark floors can be a great choice. Just balance them with lighter walls to keep the room feeling open and inviting.

Vintage furniture with modern twist

Ornate vintage bedroom, canopy bed with red drapes, antique wooden chairs and tables, classical decor with rich red curtains, elegant historical setting
Image Credit: Colin Watts / Unsplash.

You can bring vintage furniture back without losing a fresh feel. Try mixing painted wood pieces with modern accessories for a balanced look.

Cane and rattan elements are also making a comeback. They add texture and warmth to your space.

Incorporate bold floral or art deco patterns on cushions or upholstery. This keeps vintage style lively yet current.

Bold patterned wallpaper

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

You can easily update your space with bold patterned wallpaper. It adds personality and makes a clear statement without overwhelming a room.

Look for vintage-inspired designs like florals, plaids, or metallic motifs to bring a fresh yet classic feel. Wallpapering a single wall or even the ceiling can create a unique focal point.

Oversized floral wallpaper

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

You might notice oversized floral wallpaper popping up in many homes again. It adds a bold, fresh look while bringing a bit of vintage charm.

Using large floral patterns can transform a plain wall into a statement piece. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or any space where you want a touch of personality.

This trend is perfect if you like a cozy, cottage feel. Choose colors and designs that match your style to keep it modern yet nostalgic.

Art Deco-inspired decor

Modern living room interior, gray sofa, leather armchairs, wooden coffee table with decor, TV console with artwork, patterned rug, indoor plants, open layout leading to a dining area
Image Credit: Felipe Hueb/Pexels.

You’ll notice Art Deco making a comeback, but it’s not exactly the same as before. Think bold shapes and geometric patterns, but with a more subtle and refined approach.

Rich jewel tones and elegant metallic accents fit perfectly into modern spaces. You can mix vintage pieces with contemporary furniture to keep the look fresh.

Try adding mirrors, sleek lighting, or decorative screens. This brings that stylish Art Deco vibe into your home without going over the top.

Accent walls with muted tones

Bright, minimalist living room with gray walls, white wainscoting, wooden flooring, a white cushioned chair with a rust-colored pillow
Image credit: Curtis Adams/Pexels.

You might think accent walls are outdated, but using muted tones can bring them back in a fresh way. Instead of bright or saturated colors, go for soft shades that create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

This approach lets you add character without overwhelming your space. It’s a simple update that makes your room feel both stylish and comfortable.

Brown color schemes

Couch near bed in apartment Brown color schemes wall room
Image Credit: Max Vakhtbovycn / Pexels

Brown is making a strong comeback in home decor. If you want a warm, earthy feel, using various shades of brown can create a cozy and inviting space.

You can mix brown walls with light neutrals, like white or cream, to keep the room balanced. Adding textures like faux fur or gold accents can also enhance the look without feeling heavy.

Trying out brown tones offers a fresh alternative to the usual cool or bright palettes.

True dining rooms

Modern open-plan apartment, wooden dining table with black chairs, kitchen in background, wall art, built-in bench seating, neutral tones with red ceiling accent
Image credit: Huy Quang Nguyễn/ Pexels.

True dining rooms are making a quiet comeback in home design. If you have the space, dedicating a room just for dining can create a more intentional and cozy atmosphere.

You can make your dining room a place to gather, away from distractions. It encourages more meaningful meals and conversations with family or friends.

Consider classic furniture pieces and warm lighting to give your dining room a welcoming feel. It’s a simple way to add charm to your home.

Patterned upholstery

Brown and white cowhide upholstered sofa, wooden frame, four cushions, rustic indoor setting, blurred background with additional furniture
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

You might notice patterned upholstery making a strong comeback in home decor.

Bold florals, geometric shapes, and abstract motifs are popular choices that can add personality to your furniture. These designs work well on sofas, chairs, and even ottomans.