a vase sitting on a table

14 nostalgic home items making a comeback

Who doesn’t love a good blast from the past? Home decor items from eras bygone are making a big splash in today’s interior design world. Nostalgia is a powerful emotion, and it’s driving the resurgence of some classic items that were once staples in our homes. From vinyl record players to avocado green appliances, these nostalgic home items are making a comeback, and they’re being used in creative and modern ways. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and see how these vintage items are being revived, how they’re being used today, and where you can get your hands on these revived classics.

The Rebirth of Vinyl Record Players

vintage record player spinning a black vinyl record, with stacked records visible nearby
Image Credit: Merve/ Pexels.

Remember when spinning records was the only way to enjoy music at home? Vinyl record players are back and hotter than ever. With their unique sound quality, they offer a music experience that’s different from digital music. Plus, they make for a stylish addition to your living room or bedroom. Companies like Crosley and Audio-Technica are releasing modern versions of these classic players, complete with advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports. People are rediscovering the joy of dropping a needle onto a spinning record and enjoying the rich, warm sound that only vinyl can provide.

The Rise of the Retro Mini Fridge

intage-style white refrigerator, curved edges, top freezer compartment, gold handle accents, positioned in a modern white kitchen, beside a potted plant, minimalist and retro design
Image Credit: Pavel Danilyuk/Pexels.

Who knew that a mini fridge could be a statement piece? Retro mini fridges, with their rounded edges and chrome handles, are popping up in homes and offices everywhere. Brands like Smeg and Daewoo are leading the charge, offering compact refrigerators in a variety of vibrant colors. They’re perfect for adding a pop of color to your kitchen, home office, or even your bedroom. Plus, they’re a practical solution for small spaces or as an extra storage option for beverages and snacks.

The Return of the Macrame Wall Hangings

A cream-colored macramé wall hanging, suspended from a thin string tied to a wooden dowel, decorates a beige wall. To the right, a wooden shelf holds a small green plant, a decorative white cutout, and a small sculpture
Image Credit: New Africa / Shutterstock.

Macrame wall hangings, a beloved craft from the ’70s, are back in vogue. Known for their intricate knots and patterns, these handcrafted pieces add texture and interest to any space. Not only does macrame offer a bohemian vibe, but it also brings a touch of handmade charm into your home. You can find beautiful pieces on Etsy or try your hand at making one yourself with the many DIY tutorials online.

The Resurgence of the Rotary Dial Telephones

Close-up of a person dialing on a pink rotary phone, evoking a sense of nostalgia and retro charm.
Image Credit: Pexels.

Old-school rotary dial telephones are making a comeback, and they’re more than just a decorative piece. While they may not replace your modern smartphone, these vintage phones are a fun way to add a retro touch to your home. Some companies are even producing replicas with modern features like push buttons and redial functions, so you can actually use them to make calls!

The Revival of the Bar Cart

bar cart setup in a garden, wooden tray base, several bottles of dark glass drinks, two clear drinking glasses, surrounded by fresh green plants, rustic wooden background, soft outdoor lighting
Image Credit: Emma Bauso/Pexels.

Bar carts were a home entertainment staple in the 1950s and ’60s, and now they’re back. A well-styled bar cart not only serves as a stylish focal point but also offers a convenient spot for mixing drinks when entertaining guests. Plus, they’re a great way to display your collection of spirits, mixers, and barware. You can find vintage bar carts in antique shops or online at places like Veranda.

The Comeback of the Ceramic Christmas Trees

Vintage Ceramic Christmas tree
Image Credit: Sailing – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0/Wiki Commons.

Remember those ceramic Christmas trees that grandma used to display on her mantle? They’re back and just as charming as ever. These vintage-inspired decorations are a nostalgic nod to Christmas past, and they’re making a comeback in homes across the country. Whether you find a vintage piece at a thrift store or buy a new one that’s been inspired by the vintage design, these ceramic trees are sure to add a touch of nostalgia to your holiday decor.

The Renaissance of the Lava Lamps

a green lit up light
Photo by Camilo González Velis

Nothing says ’60s and ’70s like a lava lamp. These groovy lights are making a comeback, bringing their mesmerizing movement and psychedelic colors back into our homes. They’re a fun and funky way to add some retro flair to any room. Plus, watching the slow-moving blobs of wax can be surprisingly calming and hypnotic!

The Reappearance of the Terrarium Kits

tilt shift lens photo of glass bowl
Photo by Nielsen Ramon

Remember when terrariums were all the rage? Well, they’re back! These miniature indoor gardens are a great way to add a touch of greenery to your space, especially if you don’t have a green thumb. They’re easy to maintain and can be customized to your liking. Plus, putting one together can be a fun DIY project. You can find terrarium kits at gardening stores or online here.

The Second Coming of the Polaroid Cameras

Tilt Shift Photography of Polaroid Land Camera on White Table
Image Credit: Pixabay / Pexels

Polaroid cameras, with their instant photos and vintage aesthetic, are back in a big way. In this digital age, there’s something magical about a physical photo that develops in front of your eyes. Plus, Polaroids make for great keepsakes and wall decor. Companies like Polaroid and Fujifilm are releasing modern versions of these classic cameras, so you can capture memories in a nostalgic way.

The Reestablishment of the Typewriter

Collections of Vintage Typewriter
Image Credit: David Jackmanson, CC BY 2.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Who would have thought that typewriters would make a comeback in the era of laptops and tablets? But here we are. Typewriters, with their mechanical keys and striking ribbons, are returning to desks as both functional and decorative items. They offer a distraction-free writing experience and a satisfyingly tactile response that modern keyboards just can’t match. Plus, they look really cool.

The Resurgence of the Sunburst Mirrors

Sunburst Mirror
Image Credit: smatveevkino/Freepik

Sunburst mirrors, a staple of mid-century design, are making a comeback. With their radiant design, they make a statement on any wall. They’re a great way to add a touch of vintage glamour to your living room, bedroom, or entryway. You can find beautiful sunburst mirrors at antique shops or online at Veranda.

The Revival of the Teak Furniture

flat screen TV turned off
Photo by Phebe Tan

Teak furniture, known for its durability and timeless appeal, is enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Whether it’s a mid-century modern dining set or a Danish-style sideboard, these pieces add a touch of vintage charm to any space. Plus, teak is exceptionally durable, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

The Rebirth of the Avocado Green Appliances

Cathrineholm Lotus Teapot
Image Credit: Gate City Thrift / Ebay

Once a hallmark of the ’70s, avocado green appliances are making a comeback. While they may not appeal to everyone’s taste, there’s no denying that these retro appliances add a bold statement to any kitchen. Brands like SMEG and Big Chill are offering modern appliances in this retro shade, so if you’re feeling adventurous, why not give it a go?

In conclusion, nostalgia is indeed a powerful driver in the world of home decor. These items, once thought to be relics of the past, are making a comeback in a big way. They offer a unique charm and character that modern items often lack. So why not embrace the nostalgia and add a touch of vintage charm to your home?