Interior design trends cycle, but some looks fade almost entirely. Several designers recently shared which living room styles they miss – and which they believe deserve a comeback. From industrial lofts to formal parlors, these forgotten aesthetics offer unique charm that modern minimalism often lacks. The resurgence of these styles isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about filling voids in today’s design landscape.
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The Case for Industrial Living Rooms
Minimalism’s grip on recent interiors has pushed colder, more utilitarian styles like industrial to the sidelines. Designer Vanessa Larsson notes that industrial spaces are “forgiving” and allow for personality through artifacts, but their popularity waned as aesthetics shifted. While still common in commercial spaces, they’re rarely seen in homes now.
To revive the look, Larsson suggests incorporating warmer tones and textures. “Mixing in warm tones, perhaps coloring all walls, or maybe even a colored kitchen, to live up to the classic grey and brown tones.” This shift would soften the harshness often associated with industrial design.
The Lost Soul of Transitional Spaces
Lauren Lerner, founder of Living with Lolo, mourns the loss of transitional style – prevalent in the mid-2000s – characterized by darker woods, rich colors, and layered fabrics. She describes these rooms as having “soul,” intentionally designed and lived-in rather than styled for appearances.
Lerner sees signs of a comeback as clients reject sterile all-white spaces. The next wave of design, she believes, will blend that nostalgic coziness with clean modern lines.
Art Deco’s Decadent Appeal
Art Deco’s absence makes sense given the current minimalist craze, but its richness is undeniable. Larsson calls it “decadent and glamorous,” evoking the world of The Great Gatsby. However, she also acknowledges its difficulty. Poorly executed Art Deco can quickly look tacky, requiring careful balance of materials and finishes.
Rather than a full revival, Larsson predicts a fusion with mid-century modern, creating a “mid-century Deco” hybrid.
The Return of Defined Spaces: Formal Living Rooms
Open-concept layouts dominated the last decade, but formal living rooms are making a comeback. Designer Natalie Dixon advocates for defined spaces, especially for hosting.
“When you host, it’s truly lovely to have a separate area to sit and enjoy guests without being exposed to all the smells, noise, and clutter of the kitchen.” A dedicated space for socializing offers a more welcoming atmosphere.
Sunken Living Rooms: The Cozy Nostalgia
Sunken living rooms, popular in the 1970s, haven’t resurfaced despite the decade’s broader design comeback. Jamie Gasparovic loves their “cozy nostalgic factor,” perfect for modern lifestyles centered around streaming and socializing.
“They feel separate and part of the home all at once.” With the 70s influencing current trends, Gasparovic believes sunken living rooms could be next.
Symmetry’s Order: Traditional Living Rooms
Traditional living rooms perfected symmetry, a feature Dixon misses in many modern asymmetrical arrangements. “Symmetry provided an inherent structure and feeling of order that is often lost today.” While ultra-modern designs dominate, the balance offered by traditional symmetry may find renewed appreciation.
Ultimately, these forgotten styles aren’t about replicating the past but extracting what worked – warmth, personality, and intentional design – to enrich modern interiors. Their potential resurgence isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about filling gaps left by minimalist trends and creating spaces that feel genuinely lived in.
