◆Home Improvement Ideas Journal

80s Contemporary Remodel: Modernize Your Space & Retro

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Nostalgia for the vibrant and colorful '80s has inspired a resurgence in contemporary home remodeling, with homeowners eager to infuse their living spaces with the energy of this iconic decade. But updating your home to reflect this era doesn't mean going overboard with neon or kitsch. Today's '80s contemporary remodel is all about blending timeless design with subtle nods to the spirit of the decade that gave us MTV and Pac-Man.

At the heart of an '80s contemporary remodel lies the perfect balance between retro inspiration and modern functionality. It's about honoring the bold silhouettes and playful color palettes of the '80s while keeping your home comfortable, efficient, and above all, you.

Embracing Retro Style Elements

To kickstart your '80s contemporary remodel, embrace the spirit of the '80s without being overwhelmed by it. Think controlled chaos, noteney overload.

How to Update a 1980s Home: Before and After
How to Update a 1980s Home: Before and After
A 1980s Contemporary Gets A Home Remodel — Degnan Design-Build-Remodel
A 1980s Contemporary Gets A Home Remodel — Degnan Design-Build-Remodel
1980s Oak Kitchen Gets a Bright White Modern Makeover You Have to See
1980s Oak Kitchen Gets a Bright White Modern Makeover You Have to See

Start by incorporating key design elements that defined the decade. This could be anything from geometric shapes and rich jewel tones to glass brick walls and exposed brickwork. The goal is to create a cohesive look that whispers '80s rather than shouting it.

Color & Textures

Don't shy away from color - the '80s was all about bold hues and clashing brights. But exercise restraint by choosing a palette that's inviting rather than overwhelming. Think emerald greens, royal blues, and deep reddish-purples, balanced out with plenty of white space. Or, for a more understated approach, opt for a 'arın ochre' creaminess with hits of soft pastels.

Home Tour // A Remodeled “80s Special” Is Anything But a Starter House — The Grit and Polish
Home Tour // A Remodeled “80s Special” Is Anything But a Starter House — The Grit and Polish
Before & After: How Lauren Liess Updated Her House from the '70s
Before & After: How Lauren Liess Updated Her House from the '70s
a man and woman standing in front of a large brown house with trees around it
a man and woman standing in front of a large brown house with trees around it

Texture plays a significant role too. Play up the гламorous side of the '80s with plush velvets, satins, and sequins, or lean into the wilderness trend with natural woods, rattan, and sheepskin. Just remember, less is more - except when it comes to pattern. Florals, geometrics, and especially, stripes, are all fair game.

Materials & Finishes

In '80s contemporary design, the material finish is as important as the material itself. Think sleek metallic accents, marble counters, andфера-glass surfaces. Or, for a more laid-back approach, embrace natural materials like wood and stone, polished to a high gloss.

Don't forget to harness the power of glass. From shower screens to coffee tables, glass can add a touch of '80s glamour while keeping spaces feeling light and airy.

a bathroom with two sinks, mirror and bathtub in it's own room
a bathroom with two sinks, mirror and bathtub in it's own room
An Early ‘80s Home With Good Vibes
An Early ‘80s Home With Good Vibes
an empty room with tile floors and sliding glass doors
an empty room with tile floors and sliding glass doors
a kitchen filled with lots of counter top space next to a window covered in plants
a kitchen filled with lots of counter top space next to a window covered in plants
a large kitchen with an island in the middle and lots of plants growing on it
a large kitchen with an island in the middle and lots of plants growing on it
80s
80s

Integrating Modern Comforts

While the '80s aesthetic is undeniably cool, comfort is key in contemporary design. So, while you're drawing inspiration from the past, ensure you're also embracing the conveniences of the present.

This means investing in high-quality, durable materials, and fixtures that stand the test of time. It means opting for appliances that are both stylish and functional. And it means installing smart home technology that makes your daily life a breeze.

Kitchen & Bathroom Remodel

Two of the most rewarding rooms to remodel using '80s contemporary design? The kitchen and bathroom - especially when you're working with an open floor plan. Here, sleek lines, clean counters, and bold colors can create stunning, impactful spaces.

40 Stunning 80s House Exterior Modern Makeovers
40 Stunning 80s House Exterior Modern Makeovers
80s Aesthetic Retro Vintage Kitchen Midcentury Modern
80s Aesthetic Retro Vintage Kitchen Midcentury Modern
a living room filled with furniture and a large white light fixture hanging from the ceiling
a living room filled with furniture and a large white light fixture hanging from the ceiling
A Light Contemporary Reworking Of A 1980s Brick + Timber Home
A Light Contemporary Reworking Of A 1980s Brick + Timber Home
an open kitchen and dining room with wood beams on the ceiling, tile flooring
an open kitchen and dining room with wood beams on the ceiling, tile flooring
the kitchen is clean and ready for us to use in the day or night time
the kitchen is clean and ready for us to use in the day or night time
Renovated Mid Century Modern House, New Midcentury Modern, Modern Mid Century Architecture, Mid Century Home Remodel, Mid Century Modern Rooms, Midcentury Contemporary, Mid Century Country House, Mid Century Modern House Interiors, Scandanavian Home Design
Renovated Mid Century Modern House, New Midcentury Modern, Modern Mid Century Architecture, Mid Century Home Remodel, Mid Century Modern Rooms, Midcentury Contemporary, Mid Century Country House, Mid Century Modern House Interiors, Scandanavian Home Design
Before & after: 80s home renovation gives new life to family home
Before & after: 80s home renovation gives new life to family home
a living room with wood paneling and large windows on the ceiling is filled with plants
a living room with wood paneling and large windows on the ceiling is filled with plants
the kitchen is clean and ready for us to use
the kitchen is clean and ready for us to use
a kitchen with lots of counter space and wooden cabinetry, along with an orange tiled floor
a kitchen with lots of counter space and wooden cabinetry, along with an orange tiled floor

Think of bold cabinetry in deep purple or shocking pink, paired with stark white counters and backsplash. Or, for a more subtle nod to the '80s, consider a timeless black and white scheme with just a hint of retro glamour - perhaps via a metallic faucet or vanity hardware.

Living Spaces & Bedroom Design

Throughout the rest of your home, remember, less is more. The '80s was all about being bold, but that doesn't mean filling every space to the brim. A lone statement piece, like a vintage banking lamp or a floating shelf filled with asymmetry, can be just as powerful as an entire wall of arts on display.

In bedrooms, embrace the power of bedding - think rich velvet covers, or lush quilted bedspreads. And don't forget the humble party wall. Wallpaper can add a wealth of texture and interest - just be sure to choose a print that's easy on the eye (and the conscience).

The best '80s contemporary remodels are those that blend the era's iconic style with modern-day comfort and convenience. So, go ahead and indulge in your nostalgic desire for retro design, but do so in a way that's functional, adaptable, and, above all, uniquely you.