Bedrooms through the decades: our favourite design trends

Image generated by Microsoft Copilot

From the psychedelic lava lamps and boho macramé wall hangings of the ‘70s to the sleek, minimalist lines of the ‘90s, it’s fair to say that our bedroom designs have evolved a lot over the years. 

And yet, we’re seeing the resurgence of past styles crop up more and more, as trend cycles continue to do the rounds. Just like in the fashion world, interior design trends always come back around eventually. Just ask Gen Z, who are currently wearing “Y2K-style” low-waisted jeans and rhinestone studded baby tees…

Have you ever thought about the timescale of trends? It’s generational. We’re naturally drawn to nostalgia, so when it’s time for a new generation of homeowners (or renters) to decorate their own homes, they often look back to the designs they grew up with – sometimes without even knowing it! Generally speaking, we’re looking at a timescale of around 30 years for a trend to cycle back around (based on the average age of a first-time buyer being 33-years-old). Even designers and architects can’t help but look back and take inspiration from their childhood surroundings. That’s why ‘90s and ’00s interior design trends are having a comeback right now – it’s all down to nostalgia.  

There’s a reason that we are drawn to nostalgia time and time again. Particularly in interior design, sentimental decor adds a sense of familiarity, warmth and comfort in the home; something that we can all agree is desirable, no matter what era tickles your fancy. That’s probably the reason that paint gurus, Lick, have already named their 2025 Colour Palette of the Year, ‘New Nostalgia’. We’ll take ten paint pots, please!  

The 1960s, or the so-called ‘Swinging Sixties,’ were all about pure joy, peace and love, and self-expression, which can be seen clearly in its signature design style. In the bedroom, we weren’t afraid to experiment with vivid colours, bold patterns and a mixture of textures to create a warm and inviting feel. Flower power, dude!  

Top trends we love from the 1960s  

• Vibrant colours like bright oranges, yellows, pinks and greens. 
• Tonnes of texture – hello shag rugs and velvet armchairs! 
• Psychedelic patterns – think paisley prints, florals and geometric shapes. 

Did you know? Those funky orange mushroom lamps popping up on hipster interior design snaps recently actually first cropped up in the 1960s, as a fashionable bedside lamp.  

Looking for more ways to introduce some hippie spirit into your bedroom? Take a peek at our guide to mastering ​​1960s bedroom design trends. 

Heavily influenced by the hippie movement and bohemian spirit, ‘70s decor was all about using colours and materials that reflect the natural world. Think rich, earthy tones like warm oranges, wooden browns and avocado greens. Mixing materials was another easy way to add a little depth and texture to the bedroom, with signature pieces including rattan furniture, shag carpets and macramé decor. Of course, disco balls and lava lamps were must-have accessories, too! 

Top trends we love from the 1970s  

• Rich, earthy colours that reflect Mother Nature like browns, oranges and greens. 
• An abundance of natural materials, such as wood, bamboo, wicker and rattan to reflect the natural world. 
• Use of houseplants to create an indoor jungle. 

Got a taste for the disco decade? Check out our complete guide to ​​embodying the flair of 1970s bedroom design trends.

Not a fan of eighties decor? Well, we have one question for you: have you recently bagged yourself some leopard print clothing? If the answer is yes, then you’re a fan of ‘80s style – because leopard print was all the rage back then, just as it is again now.  

When it comes to bedroom decor, the ‘80s were all about using bold patterns and clashing colours to brighten up a room. The signature green and pink combo was particularly popular, as were tropical houseplants. Think Club Tropicana and you’re halfway there.  

Top trends we love from the 1980s  

• Bold, neon colours like electric blues, neon pinks and bright, sunshine yellows. 
• Artificial materials like metal, leather, glass and neon lighting. 
• Statement patterns like leopard print and fun geometric prints such as squiggly zigzags and stripes. 

Digging the loud and proud ‘80s? Check out our complete guide to ​​rocking 1980s bedroom design trends.  

The nineties were an eclectic time for interior design – but that’s not to say it wasn’t stylish. After a few decades of a maximalist approach to bedroom decor, we turned our heads to a more muted, minimalistic feel. Think calming, neutral colours, cosy bed linens and warm lighting. The ‘90s brought in timeless design trends that we’re still embracing today – from minimalism to shabby chic.  

Top trends we love from the 1990s  

• Neutral colours like white, cream and grey to create a calming ambience. 
• Cool metals like chrome and stainless steel for your bed frame and other fittings around the room. 
• Tap into the metallic colour scheme trend and add some silver accessories for a classy, elegant look.  

Fancy learning more about the nostalgic nineties? Check out our complete guide to ​​adding some ‘90s bedroom design trends into your modern bedroom.  

We’re sorry to break it to you, but yes, the noughties are indeed now classed as ‘nostalgic.’ The Y2K aesthetic has seen a huge revival in recent years – and we have the Barbie movie to thank for that. After 2023’s Barbie summer, pink crept into every new product launch – from duvet covers to candlestick holders, even pink beds! The 2000s home decor style also introduced a shiny new look, as we embraced pops of silver and sparkly diamantes in our colour schemes.  

 Top trends we love from the 2000s  

• Use dark colours like hot pink, magenta and purple in your colour scheme, and add black as an accent colour. 
• Don’t be afraid to add a touch of glitzy glam with pops of silver and rhinestones around your bedroom. 
• Embrace technology and invest in clever tech to help aid your sleep. 

Looking for more ways to introduce the Y2K aesthetic into your bedroom? Check out our complete guide to the very best ​​2000s bedroom design trends. 

And there we have it! Our favourite trends from the last five decades. Whether the bold 80s or minimalist 00s speak to your soul, remember your home is a space that should reflect the things you love and not just what’s trending in Vogue (or on TikTok!).

Don’t be afraid to mix and match your favourite design elements from different decades to create a totally unique vibe that feels like home to you – after all, your bedroom is your snoozing sanctuary.