When it comes to home design, trends tend to come full circle. What was once considered outdated can quickly become the next big thing again—just with a fresh twist. From paint choices and furniture layouts to wallpaper and architectural details, interior design is seeing a revival of classic features that add warmth, character, and personality to modern spaces.
Here are five old-school home features that interior designers say are making a strong return in 2025:
1. Wallpapered & Color-Saturated Rooms
Gone are the days of playing it safe with neutrals. Homeowners are leaning into bold, expressive interiors—and wallpaper is leading the charge. Especially in kitchens and smaller spaces, wallpaper is becoming a go-to for adding instant charm.
Designers note a resurgence of floral prints, damask patterns, and vintage-inspired wallpapers reminiscent of the Victorian era. Deep, rich colors like teal, emerald, and burgundy are also being used to saturate rooms, replacing the once-dominant minimalist whites and grays.
2. Closed Floor Plans
For years, the open-concept layout reigned supreme, with walls being knocked down in the name of airiness and flow. But lately, there’s a growing desire to bring those walls back.
Defined spaces like formal dining rooms, cozy parlors, and dedicated home offices are gaining popularity again. People are looking for privacy, function, and intentional design. Not to mention, it’s easier to decorate distinct rooms with unique identities and purposes—without kettlebells clashing with your coffee table setup.
3. Maximalism and Decorative Trim
Minimalism has taken a backseat as maximalism rides back into the spotlight. The focus now is on layering textures, embracing ornate details, and curating spaces with meaningful objects and vintage pieces.
Trim work is another key player in this revival. From crown moldings and chair rails to paneling and picture-frame trim, decorative elements are being used to add dimension and depth to walls and ceilings. Rich textures, bold prints, and personal collections are once again seen as assets, not clutter.
4. Built-In Seating
Built-in seating, once a staple of mid-century homes, is regaining popularity—especially in compact or multifunctional spaces. Whether it’s a breakfast nook, window seat, or custom bench with hidden storage, these functional features are both charming and efficient.
The bonus? With removable cushions and fabric covers, built-ins are easy to refresh as styles evolve—offering long-term value with a touch of personalization.
5. The Return of 1980s Browns
Surprised? Brown is making a warm and cozy comeback. While many remember the abundance of brown from the 1980s—think corduroy furniture and taupe everything—today’s designers are reimagining the shade with more sophistication.
Deep mocha tones, caramel accents, and earthy hues are being used to ground rooms and evoke a sense of nostalgia. Paired with natural textures and modern materials, brown is becoming the new neutral in many stylish homes.
Final Thoughts
Trends may come and go, but great design always finds its way back. Whether you’re remodeling or just updating your space, don’t be afraid to revisit the past—because what’s “old” might just be the next big thing in your home.
Which of these comebacks would you welcome with open arms?
