15 Funky 1980s Living Room Decor Ideas You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner!

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1. Embrace the Neon Glow

A vibrant 1980s living room, bathed in neon pink and electric blue light, a large neon sign with the word 'RAD' hanging above a plush velvet sofa, geometric patterned rug in black and white, chrome accents

The 1980s were all about making a statement, and what screams "statement" louder than neon? Forget subtle – we're going bold! Think vibrant neon signs, artwork with electric hues, or even just strategically placed neon lighting to highlight architectural features or create a fun ambiance.

2. Velvet Crush

A luxurious 1980s living room, dominated by a deep emerald green velvet sectional sofa, gold-toned coffee table with a glass top, abstract art on the walls with bold colors, soft natural light from large windows, indoor plants

Texture was king in the '80s, and velvet was the undisputed monarch. Luxurious, plush, and oh-so-touchable, velvet sofas and armchairs were a staple in any self-respecting 1980s living room. Go for jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or ruby red for that ultimate opulent vibe.

3. Geometric Patterns Gone Wild

A playful 1980s living room with a bold geometric patterned rug in black, white, and red, a white angular sofa, Memphis style side table with colorful blocks

Forget minimalist – the 80s were maximalist to the core, especially when it came to patterns. Geometric shapes were everywhere, from rugs and wallpaper to cushions and throws. Think bold triangles, zigzags, and Memphis-inspired squiggles in eye-catching color combinations.

4. Chrome is Your Homey Home

A chic 1980s living room with chrome accents, a chrome and glass coffee table as the centerpiece, a white leather sofa, black and white photography on the walls

Shiny, sleek, and oh-so-modern for the time, chrome accents were essential for that '80s edge. Chrome coffee tables, lamps, and decorative objects added a touch of futuristic glam to any space. Don't be afraid to mix chrome with softer textures like velvet and plush carpets for a balanced look.

5. Art Deco Revival

An elegant 1980s living room with Art Deco influences, a mirrored wall reflecting a plush blush pink sofa, geometric patterned cushions, a brass floor lamp with a frosted glass shade, black lacquer side tables

The Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 30s experienced a major resurgence in the 1980s. Think elegant lines, mirrored surfaces, and geometric motifs with a touch of Gatsby-esque glamour. Incorporate Art Deco-inspired furniture, lighting, and accessories for a sophisticated retro vibe.

6. Miami Vice Palette

A vibrant 1980s Miami Vice inspired living room, pastel pink walls, a turquoise sofa, white ceramic tile floor, palm tree in a large pot, artwork featuring flamingos and sunsets, bright sunlight streaming through window blinds

Channel the iconic TV show "Miami Vice" with a color palette of pastel pinks, turquoise blues, and crisp whites. This breezy, sun-soaked aesthetic is perfect for creating a relaxed and stylish 1980s living room. Add palm prints and tropical motifs to complete the Miami vibe.

7. Statement Lighting is Key

A stylish 1980s living room with statement lighting, an arc floor lamp with a chrome base and a large white shade, a pair of geometric table lamps on side tables, track lighting illuminating abstract paintings on the wall

Lighting in the 80s was anything but ordinary. Think oversized floor lamps with adjustable arms, sculptural table lamps, and track lighting to highlight artwork or architectural details. Don't be afraid to go big and bold with your lighting choices – it's all part of the '80s charm!

8. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting (Yes, Really!)

A cozy 1980s living room with wall-to-wall shag carpeting in a beige color, a large sectional sofa in a cream boucle fabric, a wooden coffee table, warm lighting from a table lamp, bookshelves filled with books and records

Okay, hear us out! While wall-to-wall carpeting might seem dated now, it was a major trend in the 1980s. It adds warmth, softness, and a touch of retro coziness to a living room. Choose a plush shag carpet in a neutral color or a bold geometric pattern for a truly authentic '80s feel.

9. Mirrored Furniture and Walls

A bright and airy 1980s living room filled with indoor plants, a large fiddle leaf fig tree in a terracotta pot, hanging macrame planters with trailing vines, a white sofa, natural wood furniture, sunlight streaming through large windows

Mirrors were everywhere in the 80s, and not just for checking your hair! Mirrored furniture, like coffee tables and side tables, and mirrored walls added a touch of glamour and helped to bounce light around the room, making it feel larger and brighter.

10. Indoor Plants Galore

Bringing the outdoors in was a big trend in the 80s, and indoor plants were essential for creating a fresh and vibrant living space. Think large leafy plants like ferns, palms, and snake plants in ceramic pots. Hang macrame plant hangers for an extra touch of bohemian '80s flair.

11. The Power of Pastels (with a Punch)

A soft and stylish 1980s living room with pastel colors, dusty rose walls, a seafoam green sofa, lavender accents in cushions and artwork, black metal side tables

While bright neon and bold geometric patterns were popular, pastels also had their moment in the 80s. But these weren't your grandma's pastels! Think dusty rose, seafoam green, and lavender with a punch of black or chrome for contrast. Use pastel hues for walls, furniture, or accessories for a softer take on '80s style.

12. Tech-Inspired Touches

A modern 1980s living room with tech-inspired decor, exposed wires as a design feature, artwork with circuit board patterns, a vintage boombox on a shelf, a grey modular sofa

The 80s were a time of rapid technological advancement, and home decor reflected this. Incorporate tech-inspired elements like exposed wires, circuit board patterns, and futuristic-looking gadgets (think vintage boomboxes or early computers as decorative pieces).

13. Animal Prints (Subtly or Not!)

An eclectic 1980s living room with animal print accents, a zebra print rug, leopard print cushions on a neutral sofa, a vintage record player, warm wood furniture

Animal prints were a fun and fashionable way to add a touch of wildness to an 80s living room. Leopard print, zebra stripes, and even cheetah spots could be found on cushions, throws, rugs, or even as statement furniture pieces. Go subtle with just a few accents or go all out for a truly bold look!

14. Sculptural Furniture

A contemporary 1980s living room with sculptural furniture, a curved white sofa, angular black armchairs, a biomorphic shaped coffee table, minimalist artwork, large windows with city views

Forget boxy and boring! Furniture in the 80s was often sculptural and statement-making. Think curved sofas, angular armchairs, and coffee tables with interesting shapes. These pieces served as both functional furniture and works of art.

15. Pop Art Influence

A vibrant 1980s living room with Pop Art influences, a large Warhol-inspired print on the wall, colorful blocky furniture, primary colors dominating the palette, playful accessories

The vibrant and playful energy of Pop Art was a major influence in 80s decor. Incorporate bold, graphic artwork inspired by artists like Andy Warhol or Keith Haring. Think bright colors, iconic imagery, and a sense of fun and irreverence.

Rad Wrap-Up!

So there you have it – 15 funky 1980s living room decor ideas to totally transform your space! Whether you go full-on neon maximalist or prefer a more subtle pastel Art Deco vibe, there's an '80s trend for everyone. The key is to have fun, be bold, and embrace the totally rad spirit of the decade. Now go forth and make your living room the most awesome hangout spot this side of 1989! Totally tubular!