20193 min read

10 retro decor trends that are making a comeback [Wallpaper ideas]

In interior design, what goes around comes around. Retro trends are making a massive comeback in both furnishings and accessories, recreated with a touch of modern polish. Here are 10 retro decor trends that are making a comeback.

Quick answer

Retro decor trends making a comeback include patterned rugs, bold wallpaper, terrazzo flooring, rattan furniture, checkerboard floors, gold accents, wall murals, floral patterns, natural furniture, and mustard yellow tones — all reinterpreted with a modern twist.

1. Patterned Carpets & Rugs

Dominant in the 70s before tile and ceramic flooring took over, patterned rugs are back as a bold style statement. Here are 10 best area rugs to buy according to The Spruce.

2. Patterned Wallpaper

Wallpaper largely disappeared after the '80s, but reinvented retro patterns are back, adding drama that flat paint simply can't match. Our own 1853 Japanese Map of the World Wall Mural brings that same vintage-pattern energy to a room. Check out 10 cool geometric retro wallpaper ideas for more inspiration.

1853 japanese map of the world wall mural

3. Terrazzo Flooring

Terrazzo started in 15th-century Venice as a way to reuse unused marble, and became a staple of public flooring by the 1970s. It's since made a major comeback in homes, prized for its durability and playful, speckled look. Take a look at this terrazzo kitchen on Houzz.

4. Rattan Furniture

A 70s living room staple, rattan's classic curves and natural texture are back in style. A rattan chair or settee softens a formal sitting room, and it works just as well outdoors. See rattan patio furniture on Houzz.

5. Checkerboard Floors

Once a staple of kitchens, diners, and school hallways, black-and-white checkerboard flooring is making its way back into kitchens and bedrooms, thanks to how easily it blends with different colour schemes.

6. Gold Accents

A major design trend in the 80s, gold and muted brass have made their way back into modern interiors as a marker of quality and sophistication. Gold pairs especially well with black and adds a touch of shine to any room.

7. Wall Murals

Just like wallpaper, removable wall murals are making a massive comeback — now available in a huge range of styles, from patterned to bold floral, and easy to install and remove without damage. Browse our Vintage collection for retro-inspired designs.

8. Floral Patterns

A major trend in the '80s for both interiors and fashion, bold floral designs are back with a vintage-inspired twist — appearing everywhere from throw pillows to statement wall murals. Browse our Floral collection for options.

9. Natural Furniture

Rattan, bamboo, and cane furnishings from the 60s and 70s are back, prized for their simplicity and natural, vintage feel. See top sources for unfinished wood furniture from Apartment Therapy.

10. Mustard Yellow

A mainstay of the 60s, mustard yellow is popping up again in homes and design trends looking for a bold accent colour — alongside other returning tones like camel, tobacco, and rust.

Much of what we see in interior design today is reborn from the past. Check out our full Vintage wall murals collection to add some retro character to your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the easiest retro trend to try first?

A wall mural or patterned rug is the lowest-commitment way to bring retro style into a room — both are easy to change later if your taste evolves.

Are retro-style wall murals removable?

Yes, all of our vintage and retro-inspired wall murals are available in removable, peel-and-stick materials.

Can I mix multiple retro trends in one room?

Yes — many of these trends, like rattan furniture and a vintage wall mural, or gold accents and mustard tones, pair naturally together.

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