10 Things Every Living Room Had in the ’80s
Step into a time machine and revisit the iconic decor staples that defined every 1980s living room.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
The ’80s were unique when it came to home design. From oversized furniture to pastel art prints, these living room essentials were everywhere. Whether you lived it or just admire the aesthetic, here’s what made an ’80s living room complete.
1. Big Tube TV in a Wood Console
Daniel Christensen on Wikimedia Commons
These heavy TVs were the centerpiece of every living room and also doubled as furniture. Framed in oak or walnut, they were built to last and took up serious floor space.
2. Vertical Blinds
Aurora Fox on Unsplash
Sliding glass doors weren’t complete without these plastic slats. They were noisy and often tangled, but they were totally modern for their time.
3. Glass and Brass Coffee Tables
The Living Room on Flickr
Shiny brass frames and glass tops were the definition of ’80s glam. Sleek, sharp, and slightly dangerous for toddlers, these tables screamed sophistication.
4. Floral or Pastel Sofas
grevillea. on Flickr
Think of overstuffed cushions with giant pink flowers or seashell patterns. The louder the print, the better. These couches weren’t just for sitting—they were style statements.
5. Track Lighting
Max Vakhtbovycn on Pexels
Mounted on the ceiling, these moveable spotlights were considered cutting-edge. They offered a gallery feel at home, letting you highlight your latest fern or art print.
6. Wall-to-Wall Carpet
Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels
No hardwood in sight—just thick, often beige carpet from corner to corner. It felt soft underfoot but trapped everything from dust to dropped snacks.
7. Entertainment Centers
Paladin27 on Flickr
These massive, multi-compartment units held everything: a TV, VHS player, cassette stereo, and a mountain of tapes. Often made of dark wood, they were built like fortresses.
8. Popcorn Ceilings
Doggo19292 on Wikimedia Commons
Bumpy, textured ceilings were everywhere in ’80s homes. They were cheap to install and great at hiding imperfections.
9. Lace or Sheer Curtains
Roger Bradshaw on Unsplash
Layered over blinds or drapes, these window treatments let the light in gently. Ruffled edges and delicate designs added a soft, romantic touch.
10. Houseplants in Wicker Stands
Bino Bose on Pexels
Ferns, spider plants, and rubber trees thrived indoors thanks to these plant stands. Natural, earthy wicker added texture to the room.