The 90s are back, baby! And with them comes a resurgence of iconic design trends that defined the decade. From grunge and minimalism to maximalism and the rise of the internet, the 90s were a melting pot of inspiration, and its influence on interior design is undeniably strong. If you’re looking to infuse your living room with a touch of nostalgic charm, then look no further than these 21 design ideas that will transport you back to the era of oversized scrunchies and dial-up internet.
Bold Geometric Prints
Embrace the bold and graphic appeal of 90s style with geometric prints. Think oversized checks, zigzags, and abstract patterns in vibrant colors. These can be incorporated through throws, cushions, rugs, or even wallpaper. Combine a black and white checkerboard rug with a patterned sofa in a deep emerald green for a statement look. Add pops of color with vibrant throws in orange, yellow, and purple to complete the 90s vibe.
Deep Jewel Tones
The 90s were all about rich, saturated colors, and deep jewel tones are making a comeback. Consider incorporating emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, or amethyst purple into your living room décor. Paint an accent wall in a jewel tone, use velvet upholstery in a rich emerald green, or introduce a deep blue area rug to create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. This color palette perfectly captures the luxurious vibe of the 90s.
Checkerboard Flooring
A classic 90s design element, checkerboard flooring adds a touch of retro charm and visual interest to your living room. Opt for black and white tiles for a timeless look or experiment with other color combinations like red and black for a bolder statement. A checkerboard floor can act as the focal point of your living room or be complemented by other 90s design elements like a velvet sofa and a neon sign.
Minimalist Scandinavian Inspiration
The 90s also saw the rise of Scandinavian design with its focus on simplicity and functionality. Incorporate natural materials like wood, leather, and linen, and prioritize clean lines and minimalist furniture pieces. Neutral colors like white, beige, and grey create a calm and airy atmosphere. Contrast the minimalist aesthetic with pops of color from vibrant artwork or decorative objects.
Terracotta Accents
Terracotta, with its warm earthy tones, was a popular material in the 90s. Bring this trend back with terracotta pots, vases, or even a terracotta lamp. The earthy tones complement the warm and inviting feel of a living room, and can be paired with wooden furniture and natural fibers for a cohesive look. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different textures and materials for a more eclectic feel.
Exposed Brick Walls
Exposed brick walls were a defining feature of the 90s grunge aesthetic and continue to be a popular design element today. If you have exposed brick walls, embrace them! Leave them as they are or paint them in a bold color to create a statement. For a more minimalist look, whitewash the bricks to create a softer and more muted effect. These walls lend a rustic and industrial vibe to the space, perfectly reflecting the edgy spirit of the 90s.
Oversized Statement Sofa
A key element of 90s living room décor was the oversized statement sofa. Opt for a plush velvet sofa in a rich jewel tone like emerald green or sapphire blue. A sectional sofa is another great choice for creating a cozy and inviting space. Choose a sofa with a low profile and clean lines for a minimalist look, or go for a more dramatic silhouette with tufted cushions and decorative details.
Grunge-Inspired Décor
Channel the rebellious spirit of grunge with vintage furniture pieces, distressed wood, and leather accents. A distressed leather armchair, a vintage record player, or a distressed coffee table with a worn patina are perfect additions. Include some of the quintessential grunge motifs like band posters, vintage record albums, or graphic tees displayed on the walls for a complete grunge aesthetic.
Macrame Wall Hangings
Macrame, the art of knotting cords, experienced a resurgence in popularity during the 90s, and it’s back in a big way! Incorporate macrame wall hangings of various shapes and sizes to add texture and warmth to your living room. Choose natural fibers like cotton or jute for a bohemian touch, or opt for vibrant colors to create a pop of color. Macrame pieces add a touch of handmade artistry to the room, echoing the DIY spirit of the 90s.
Neon Signs
Neon signs were synonymous with the 90s, and they’re making a comeback as a trendy décor element. Opt for a neon sign with a personalized message, a witty quote, or a graphic design. You can also use neon signs to create a cool and vibrant atmosphere with eye-catching colors and playful fonts. Pair a neon sign with a dark wall for maximum impact.
Vintage Rugs
Vintage rugs add a touch of history and character to a 90s-inspired living room. Look for vintage Persian rugs, Moroccan rugs, or even kilim rugs in a vibrant color palette. Mix and match different patterns and textures to create a visually appealing and eclectic space. Their unique textures and patterns bring warmth and visual interest to a space, perfectly complementing the retro aesthetic.
Geometric Wall Art
Embrace the bold and graphic aesthetic of 90s art with geometric wall art. Opt for prints or paintings featuring abstract shapes, bold colors, and geometric patterns. Use them to create a focal point in your living room or to complement your furniture and rugs. Pair geometric wall art with minimalist furniture and neutral colors for a cohesive and modern look.
Velvet Curtains
Velvet curtains were a popular choice in the 90s and they bring a touch of luxury and drama to any living room. Choose velvet curtains in a deep jewel tone like emerald green or sapphire blue. Hang them floor-length for a more dramatic effect and pair them with wooden blinds for a layered look. The luxurious feel of velvet adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to a room.
Retro Furniture
Embrace the nostalgia of the 90s with retro furniture pieces. Look for vintage armchairs, coffee tables, or even a retro TV console. Choose furniture with sleek lines, bold colors, and unique details. These pieces will inject a sense of playful whimsy and nostalgia into the space.
Metallics
Metallic finishes were a defining trend of the 90s, and they are back in style. Incorporate metallic accents in your living room through accessories like lamp bases, picture frames, or even furniture with metallic finishes. Choose silver, gold, or even brass for a luxurious and glamorous feel. These metallic accents reflect light and add a touch of sparkle and glamour to a room.
Plants
The 90s were all about bringing the outdoors in. Add greenery to your living room with plants like ferns, snake plants, or monsteras. Choose large plants in bold pots or create a small indoor garden. Plants add a natural touch and vibrant color, creating a more lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Throw Pillows
Add texture and color to your sofa with a collection of throw pillows in various shapes, sizes, and patterns. Mix and match different fabrics and textures like velvet, chenille, and cotton. Choose a mix of solid colors, geometric prints, and abstract patterns to create a visually interesting and dynamic look. The mix of colors and textures adds a sense of personality and comfort to the space.
Van Tu Nguyen