If you glance around a house and see doilies on the sofa, wood paneling in the “den,” and avocado-green kitchen appliances, there’s only one explanation. Let’s take a look at the outdated home décor that makes you whisper, “A boomer lives here.”
Wallpaper Borders
Wallpaper borders, once the pinnacle of interior design, now scream boomer aesthetics. They were often found adorning the top edges of kitchen walls, featuring everything from floral patterns to farm animals.
Doilies
Doilies, those intricate lace or crocheted mats, served as the protective armor for every surface. Whether under a lamp or on the arms of sofas, they were omnipresent. Their delicate patterns betray a preference for a more genteel home aesthetic.
Bean Bag Chairs
Bean bag chairs, synonymous with laid-back ‘70s style, still find their spot in boomer households. These amorphous blobs of comfort were the go-to seating for casual family rooms. Despite modern versions, they remain a nostalgic nod to simpler times.
Ceramic Figurines
A shelf without delicate ceramic figurines was once unthinkable in a baby boomer’s home. These tiny guardians ranged from pastoral scenes to wide-eyed children and animals.
Shag Carpets
Shag carpets, with their deep pile and vibrant colors, defined boomer home decor. Walking across them was like a soft, fuzzy adventure for your feet. However, their maintenance and style now place them firmly in the past.
Wood Paneling
Wood paneling was the ultimate statement of sophistication and coziness in a boomer’s den or basement. This dark, grooved backdrop for family photos and artwork offered a warm, cabin-like feel. Today, it’s a clear indicator of a home’s vintage.
Lava Lamps
Lava lamps, with their groovy, slow-moving blobs, were more than just lighting; they were an experience. Placed in dens or bedrooms, they added a psychedelic touch to the room.
Floral Couches
Floral couches, covered in bold prints, were once the centerpiece of every living room. Paired with matching curtains, they created an indoor garden of sorts. This love for loud, busy patterns is a nostalgic home decor choice.
Avocado-Green Appliances
Avocado-green appliances, from refrigerators to blenders, were the height of kitchen fashion. This color choice is now a vintage giveaway, evoking memories of boomer kitchens. Modern tastes veer towards stainless steel.
Antique Roll-Top Desks
Antique roll-top desks, once a symbol of serious work, are rarely found in contemporary home offices. Their solid wood and hidden compartments spoke of a different time of correspondence. Today, they serve more as a decorative piece than a functional workspace.
Brass Fixtures
Brass fixtures, from lamps to door handles, added a touch of elegance to boomer homes. This shiny accent is less common now, replaced by matte and brushed metals. Yet, their warm glow can still bring a room to life.
Crocheted Blankets
Crocheted blankets, handcrafted with love, draped over couches and chairs, are a testament to boomer craftsmanship. These colorful, patterned throws were not just for warmth but decoration too. They embody a homemade charm that’s less prevalent today.
China Cabinets
China cabinets displayed collections of fine china and crystal, a boomer’s pride. These towering pieces of furniture dominated dining rooms, filled with meticulously arranged dishware.
Sunburst Clocks
Sunburst clocks were a mid-century modern staple, adding flair to any wall. Their atomic design is a signature look from the era, mixing art with functionality. While retro is in, these clocks are a distinct marker of boomer taste.
Velvet Paintings
Velvet paintings, often of landscapes or Elvis, adorned boomer walls with a touch of kitsch. The soft, deep texture of these artworks added a unique visual and tactile element to rooms. They’re a whimsical reflection of a boomer’s flair for the dramatic.
Tiffany-Style Lamps
Tiffany-style lamps, with their stained glass and intricate designs, were a boomer’s choice for adding color and light. These lamps, whether genuine or replicas, emit a cozy, warm glow. Their detailed craftsmanship harks back to an appreciation for art nouveau.
Ruffled Bed Skirts
Ruffled bed skirts hid box springs and storage with a flourish. This frilly detail, often matching the bedding, added a layer of softness to bedroom decor. It’s a decorative choice that speaks to a preference for thorough, if not slightly outdated, elegance.
Macramé Plant Hangers
Macramé plant hangers, a boomer DIY project, brought greenery to new heights. These knotted creations were a way to display houseplants in a decorative manner. While experiencing a resurgence, they remain a nod to boomer interior design.
Record Players and Vinyl Collections
Record players and vinyl collections were not just for music; they were a statement. Positioned proudly in living rooms, they invited conversations about concerts and album art. This musical centerpiece is a classic hallmark of boomer culture.
Wicker Furniture
Wicker furniture, once relegated to sunrooms and patios, found its way into boomer living spaces. Its lightweight, natural look offered a casual, airy vibe. Though less common now, wicker pieces evoke a sense of nostalgia.
Oversized Spoon and Fork Wall Decor
Oversized spoon and fork wall decor was a quirky addition to boomer dining areas. These giant utensils signaled a love for food and fun. Today, they serve as a humorous reminder of past decor trends.
Tapestry Wall Hangings
Tapestry wall hangings brought color and texture to boomer homes. These fabric artworks, often depicting landscapes or abstract designs, were a popular way to personalize space. They’re a cozy, bohemian touch that’s distinctly retro.
Clunky Home Phones
Clunky home phones, whether rotary or push-button, were a fixture. Positioned on side tables or wall-mounted, they were essential before the mobile era. Their bulky design and ringtone are unmistakably vintage.
Flocked Christmas Trees
Flocked Christmas trees, covered in artificial snow, were a festive favorite. This holiday decor choice added a winter wonderland feel indoors. While still used by some, it’s a seasonal decor that immediately dates a household.
Collector’s Plates
Collector’s plates, displayed on walls or in cabinets, were a boomer hobby. These limited-edition plates featured everything from wildlife to royal portraits. They’re a decorative element that combines art appreciation with the joy of collecting.
