For years, the minimalist look—think pale walls, clean lines, and a serene, almost spare aesthetic—has reigned supreme in home design. The mid-century modern movement, with its muted color palettes and unfussy furniture, became a go-to for city apartments and suburban homes alike. But as of late August 2025, there’s a fresh, unmistakable shift happening in interiors: homeowners are saying goodbye to blank slates and welcoming back bold colors, playful forms, and a healthy dose of nostalgia.
According to House Digest, this evolving trend is all about blending in postmodern elements, a style that first burst onto the scene in the 1970s and truly defined the 1980s. Postmodernism stands in stark contrast to the functional minimalism of recent years; it’s eclectic, vibrant, and not afraid to make a statement. Erika Dale, a professional interior designer at Erika Dale Design, told House Digest, “This era in decor is all about playing with daring silhouettes and colors, pushing the envelope to create memorable spaces.” Her advice? Don’t be afraid to have a little fun with your interiors.
But it isn’t just postmodernism making a comeback. As reported by Ideal Home, five unmistakable trends from the 1990s are also resurfacing—and experts say they’re here to stay. The nineties were a time of BritPop, beanbags, and bold color blocks. Today, those same influences are being reimagined for a new generation of design enthusiasts.
Primary colors—namely red, blue, and yellow—are leading the charge. Kate Palmer, Creative Director at The Painted Furniture Company, explained to Ideal Home that “the return of bold primary shades reflects our appetite for playful, optimistic interiors. In the ’90s, these colours were often used in blocky, graphic ways, e.g. for bright kitchen cupboards or kids’ furniture. Today, we’re using them more thoughtfully: a cobalt blue dresser against a neutral wall, or a mustard yellow accent chair to lift a painted dining set. They inject energy into the space without making it feel too busy.”
It’s a sentiment echoed by Dale, who points out that postmodern palettes often feature avocado green, mustard, burnt orange, and turquoise—shades that add instant vibrancy. She recommends bringing these pops of color in through seating, especially in unique and unexpected shapes. “One of the quintessential ways to showcase the hallmark pops of color that postmodern interior design is known for is to bring in vibrant seating, specifically in unique and unexpected shapes,” Dale told House Digest. Side or occasional chairs, she says, are a fantastic way to strike a balance between boldness and restraint.
Of course, color isn’t the only thing making a comeback. The 1990s’ love for comfort is seeing a revival in the form of beanbags. According to Hannah Blakey, a buyer at Big Bertha Original, “The ‘90s were defined by relaxed, playful design, and bean bags started to be seen in more and more homes. Today, we’re seeing those same ideas reimagined in a more sophisticated way, with modern materials, softer palettes, and a focus on sustainability. It’s about recreating the fun, laid-back feel of the ’90s, but in a way that complements contemporary homes.”
And while the urge to go bold is strong, both Dale and Palmer caution against going overboard. “The goal is to experiment with unique color palettes and combinations for the edgy effect, while still avoiding all-out technicolor,” Dale advised House Digest. Instead, she suggests introducing bold hues subtly—through accent furniture, side tables, light fixtures, art, gallery walls, textiles, or drapery. This way, your space feels energized but not overwhelming.
Lighting, too, has taken a cue from the past. The first thing Julian Page, Head of Design at BHS, thinks of when it comes to ‘90s interiors is the iconic lava lamp. But the trend goes beyond retro kitsch. “Lighting played a big part in the look, with funky lampshades and metallic wall lights adding personality to every room. Swapping out minimalism for bold geometric shapes is a simple way to channel that 90s vibe, and with the return of domed table and floor lamps, it’s never been easier to add a playful, stylish touch to your space,” Page told Ideal Home. Today’s statement lighting—be it opulent chandeliers or sculptural floor lamps—brings warmth and personality, making rooms feel more inviting.
Surprisingly, it’s not just the bright shades that are back. Muted, warm palettes—think beige, magnolia, and terracotta—are enjoying a resurgence, too. Kathryn Lloyd, Crown Colour Specialist, explained to Ideal Home that “‘90s interiors embraced contrast by pairing sleek, modern shapes with soft furnishings. Minimal backdrops were elevated by pops of colour and monochrome palettes were softened by warm neutrals.” She recommends pairing shades like Candy Clay (a warm terracotta) with Soft Blossom (a cool pinky-purple) or Evergreen Echo (soft green) with Powdered Clay (pink) for a nostalgic yet fresh feel.
Chrome, once ubiquitous in budget kitchens and bathrooms for its futuristic sheen, is also making a return—albeit in a more curated, elegant fashion. Gary Tidman, Lead Designer at Only Lifts, told Ideal Home, “Chrome used to be EVERYWHERE because it looked futuristic and affordable. It was mass-produced, which meant it often ended up in budget kitchens and bathrooms where the shine was more about novelty than refinement. What’s changed today is how chrome and glossy finishes are being curated and combined. Instead of dominating a space, they’re used as accents to bring light, sharpness, and a sense of polish.” When paired with natural materials like stone or timber, chrome now adds a crisp, refined edge—far from its once brash reputation.
For those eager to embrace these trends without breaking the bank, Dale has some practical tips. She recommends scouring thrift stores and online platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace for vintage postmodern pieces. For those seeking new items, retailers such as Wayfair, Article, CB2, West Elm, and World Market offer a wide array of colorful accent furniture and decor that fit the bill.
Ultimately, what ties all these trends together is a desire for homes that feel joyful, personal, and just a little bit daring. Whether it’s a beanbag in plush corduroy, a cobalt blue dresser, or a chrome lamp that catches the light just so, today’s interiors are about curating spaces that reflect both nostalgia and individuality. After years of playing it safe with neutrals and minimalism, homeowners in 2025 are ready to take a few risks—and have a little fun while they’re at it.
The new wave of design proves that what’s old is new again, but with a twist: it’s all about balance, personality, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. For those bold enough to mix a little postmodern playfulness with nineties nostalgia, the result is a home that’s anything but ordinary.
