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Battle of the Décor: 70s, 80s, 90s, or Now – Which Era Had the Best Homes?

Writer's picture: Property BeeProperty Bee

Interior design trends change faster than the Great British weather, and what was once considered the height of sophistication can quickly become a relic of questionable taste. But which decade truly had the best homes? We’re pitting the 70s, 80s, 90s, and now against each other in the ultimate battle of décor!



The 1970s: The Era of Groovy Chaos


Key Features:

  • Avocado green and burnt orange EVERYTHING

  • Bold geometric wallpaper that could induce dizziness

  • Shag carpets thick enough to lose a small pet in

  • Open-plan living with an overdose of wood panelling


The 70s were all about self-expression (and perhaps a little too much brown). Homes were cosy, but they came with design choices that haven’t exactly stood the test of time. While we admire the confidence of a fully carpeted bathroom, we’ll pass on the maintenance issues.


Verdict: A retro dream… or a nightmare in green and brown?



The 1980s: More is More


Key Features:

  • Pastel overload (think pink and baby blue kitchens)

  • Brass and glass furniture for that Miami Vice aesthetic

  • Floral EVERYTHING, from curtains to sofas to wallpaper

  • The rise of the feature wall (bonus points if it had a mural)


The 80s were bold, bright, and not remotely subtle. This was the decade where homeowners embraced excess – mirrored wardrobes, giant leather sofas, and enough frills to make a wedding dress jealous. It was charmingly over the top, but would we bring it back? Maybe in small doses.


Verdict: A feast for the eyes… or a pastel-coloured headache?



The 1990s: Beige, Beads & Blow-up Furniture


Key Features:

  • Magnolia walls – the safe choice of an entire generation

  • Beaded curtains and lava lamps in teenage bedrooms

  • Huge entertainment units built to hold massive TVs (and VHS collections)

  • Open-plan kitchens with wooden cupboards and tiled counters


The 90s toned things down after the maximalism of the 80s, but let’s be honest – it was a bit... beige. This was the era of practicality, function over flair, and a desperate need to cover sofas in floral patterns. It wasn’t offensive, but it wasn’t exactly exciting either.


Verdict: Comfortable… but maybe a bit too safe?



Now: The Age of Minimalist Chic


Key Features:

  • Open-plan everything

  • Sleek, modern kitchens with handle-less cabinets

  • Neutral tones with pops of colour (goodbye, magnolia, hello, grey!)

  • Smart homes with built-in tech


Today’s homes are all about clean lines, clever storage, and making spaces feel as light and airy as possible. There’s a definite shift towards sustainability, and while some might say modern homes lack a bit of character, there’s no denying they’re practical, stylish, and designed for busy lifestyles.


Verdict: Stylish and smart… or a bit soulless?



And the Winner Is…?


Of course, it all comes down to personal taste! Some of us love the nostalgia of a 70s shag carpet, while others dream of a sleek, high-tech kitchen. One thing’s for sure – whatever your favourite era, Property Bee is here to help you find a home that suits your style (even if that means avoiding avocado bathrooms at all costs).

What’s your favourite era of home décor? Let us know in the comments!




!970s to 2000s Decor

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