23 Boomer Era Home Trends That Are Making a Comeback
What’s old is new again! As we navigate through rising costs and an ever-growing emphasis on sustainability, many home trends from the Boomer era are experiencing a resurgence. These trends focus on practicality, cost-effectiveness, and a return to simpler living—values that resonate today as they did back then. From multi-purpose furniture to energy-saving techniques, here are 25 frugal Boomer home trends that are making a stylish comeback.
1. Multi-Functional Furniture
Boomers often used furniture that served multiple purposes—like sofa beds or coffee tables with built-in storage. This practical trend is back in style, especially for those living in smaller spaces where maximizing utility is key.
2. Indoor Plants
Houseplants were a staple in Boomer homes, bringing a touch of nature indoors. With the rising popularity of biophilic design, indoor plants like ferns, spider plants, and pothos are back in vogue as affordable decor that also improves air quality.
3. Wood Paneling
Once seen as outdated, wood paneling is making a comeback with a modern twist. People are embracing it again for its warmth, texture, and budget-friendly installation, opting for lighter stains or painted finishes.
4. Linoleum Flooring
Known for its durability and low cost, linoleum is being reimagined in stylish patterns and colors. It's an eco-friendly option made from natural materials, making it a sustainable choice for today’s homeowners.
5. Thrifted and Upcycled Decor
Boomers were thrifty, often furnishing homes with hand-me-downs or garage sale finds. This trend is back with a focus on sustainability—upcycling and thrifting are popular ways to furnish a home uniquely and affordably.
6. Knitted and Crocheted Throws
Handmade knitted and crocheted throws were common in Boomer homes, adding a cozy, homemade feel. Today, these throws are making a stylish return as people look for comfort, warmth, and vintage charm in their decor.
7. Wicker and Rattan Furniture
Boomers loved their wicker and rattan pieces for their lightweight and natural look. These materials are trending again, especially for patios, sunrooms, and boho-style interiors.
8. Open Shelving in Kitchens
Open shelving was a practical solution in Boomer kitchens, making dishes easily accessible and kitchens feel more open. This trend has returned, offering a mix of practicality and style, showcasing beautiful dishware and cookware.
9. Clotheslines and Drying Racks
In an effort to save energy, many are ditching the dryer and going back to using clotheslines and drying racks. This Boomer-era staple is back for those who want to cut down on electricity bills and embrace a more natural drying method.
10. Cork Flooring and Walls
Cork was popular for its insulating properties and noise reduction. It’s back in style, offering a soft, sustainable, and comfortable flooring option, along with new applications for walls to add warmth and texture.
11. Patchwork Quilts
Handmade patchwork quilts were a common feature in Boomer bedrooms. They are now being reintroduced not just as bed covers, but also as statement wall hangings or throws, bringing color, history, and warmth to modern homes.
12. Built-In Bookshelves
Boomers loved their built-in bookshelves, which provided ample storage without taking up floor space. Today, these are making a comeback in living rooms, studies, and bedrooms for a more tailored, clutter-free look.
13. Enamel Cookware
Durable and versatile, enamel cookware like Dutch ovens and roasting pans was a staple in Boomer kitchens. Today, these timeless pieces are popular again, thanks to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and practicality in the kitchen.
14. Wallpaper Accents
While some may remember dated florals, wallpaper is back with bold, graphic prints and removable options, allowing for easy updates without a huge commitment—perfect for renters or those who love to switch things up.
15. Lace Curtains
Lace curtains provided a delicate touch to windows, and they’re returning for their vintage charm and ability to filter light softly. Pair them with heavier drapes for a layered, cozy look.
16. Glass and Ceramic Jars for Storage
Rather than using plastic containers, Boomers often stored pantry items in glass and ceramic jars. This trend is back as people seek to reduce plastic use and add a rustic or vintage touch to their kitchens.
17. Wooden Shutters
Wooden shutters, both functional and decorative, are making a comeback as a way to add curb appeal, privacy, and natural light control to windows. They’re also a great energy-saving feature.
18. Macramé Wall Hangings
Macramé was a popular DIY decor in the Boomer era, and it’s back as a stylish way to add texture and personality to a room. These handmade pieces bring a boho or retro vibe to modern interiors.
19. Compact Kitchens
Boomers often had smaller, more efficient kitchens with less wasted space. This trend is making a comeback, especially in urban areas, where maximizing space is essential. Compact kitchens focus on smart storage and multi-use areas.
20. Gardening and Homegrown Vegetables
Boomers often grew their own vegetables to save money and ensure fresh produce. This trend has resurged as more people embrace gardening as a sustainable, cost-effective way to eat healthily.
21. Laminated Countertops
Once overshadowed by granite and marble, laminate countertops are making a comeback due to their affordability and new, modern designs that mimic more expensive materials.
22. Recessed Lighting
Boomers used recessed lighting to keep spaces clean and uncluttered. It's back in style, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, for its sleek look and ability to provide focused light without taking up space.
23. Sewing and Mending Clothes
Rather than discarding torn or outdated clothes, Boomers would sew or mend them. With today’s focus on sustainability and reducing waste, mending clothes is trendy again, saving money and prolonging the life of garments.
