Dive into the transformation of an 80s contemporary house and discover how to meld its iconic style with modern flair. If you’re looking to update a home from this distinctive era without losing its character, we’ll show you how careful renovations can modernize your space while honoring its original spirit. Learn the secrets to enhancing these vintage structures for contemporary living.
What is an 80s Contemporary House?
We all remember the 1980s for its unique fashion, music, and, yes, architectural style! When we talk about an 80s contemporary house, we’re looking back at a time of bold design moves and distinctive features. These homes are often characterized by their geometric lines and asymmetrical façades.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Roof Style | High-pitched roofs or flat rooflines |
| Windows | Large windows, often with geometric shapes |
| Materials | Combination of wood, glass, and stone |
| Floor Plan | Open, spacious interior layouts |
| Color Palette | Neutral base with bold color accents |
We love how these features combine to create something that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The design choices of the 80s were all about expressing individuality, and these houses did just that with their one-of-a-kind appearances and innovative spirit. If you’re lucky enough to own one, there’s a world of potential for integrating modern trends while honoring its original character. Just peek at some inspiring makeovers that reinvent the retro vibe of these houses.
Architectural Highlights
As we explore the world of 80s contemporary houses, we’re diving right into the structures that exude the era’s daring spirit. From beams framing the skyline to high ceilings that embody the boldness of the times, these homes were a canvas for architectural creativity.
Defining Features
- Beams: Exposed beams were not just structural but also a strong aesthetic statement, often left visible to emphasize a house’s form.
- High Ceilings: Aiming for a sense of freedom and space, high ceilings became a hallmark of 80’s contemporary houses.
- Open Floor Plan: These spaces were meant for living without barriers, encouraging flow between living, dining, and cooking areas.
The combination of these attributes made for an expansive atmosphere, where light and air moved as freely as the people within.
Revival of Elements
Ranch House Inspiration: The ’80s saw a modern twist on the ranch house, incorporating stucco finishes and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.
Wood Paneling: Once a staple of the past, wood paneling re-emerged with a touch of 80s flair, often in lighter, more natural hues.
Contrast was also key; traditional elements were reborn with a contemporary edge to create a dynamic tension between old and new.
Interior Design Trends
Exploring the vibrant and innovative interior design trends from the 80s contemporary house fills us with nostalgia and excitement.
Iconic Living Rooms
In the 80s, living rooms were a statement of bold aesthetics, often featuring a dynamic color palette. The centric piece was usually a fireplace, often surrounded by geometric or excessive decorative elements.
Kitchen Updates
Kitchens saw a surge of kitchen renovation projects with the introduction of bold colors and patterns. Subway tile backsplashes became popular for their clean lines, paired often with the luxury of marble countertops, creating a look that has resurfaced in popularity today.
Bathroom Styles
Bathrooms in the 80s contemporary house often reflected the luxury of the time, utilizing marble for sink tops and sometimes even walls. High-contrast color schemes were common, accented by the sleek appeal of subway tiles.
Cozy Bedrooms
Bedrooms were our personal retreats, characterized by floral patterns and the use of pastel hues in the color palette. Comfort was king, with plush carpeting and overstuffed pillows dotting the landscape of our cozy sanctuaries.
Modernization Techniques
We’re diving straight into the heart of transforming an 80s contemporary house. With strategic upgrades in materials and construction techniques, we can breathe new life into these unique spaces.
Contemporary Materials
To modernize an 80s contemporary house, choosing the right materials is crucial. We’re looking for options that not only embody modern aesthetics but also stand the test of time.
Flooring: Replace dated carpet with sleek, hardwood floors or polished concrete for a clean, minimalist vibe.
Walls: Infuse spaces with warmth by introducing natural materials like stone or wood accents.
Countertops: Upgrade to quartz or granite for a contemporary, durable work surface that shines with natural light.
Creative Construction
The essence of a contemporary house lies in its creative design construction.
Open Floor Plan: Knock down non-load bearing walls to create an open, airy space. This enhances the flow and allows natural light to permeate throughout.
Windows and Skylights: Incorporate large windows or skylights to maximize natural light and frame outdoor views, crafting distinct, unique details.
Structural Elements: Expose and highlight structural details like beams or columns for that quintessential modern flair.
Exterior and Landscape
When we reminisce about the unique character of our 80s contemporary house, it’s impossible not to consider the impact of its exterior and how the surrounding landscape complements its design.
Outdoor Living
Our commitment to embracing outdoor living is reflected in the creation of spaces that blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
- Patios: Ideal for leisure and dining.
- Decks: Elevated platforms to enjoy views.
- Outdoor kitchens: Bringing the joy of cooking outside.
Our upgrades ensure that our 80s contemporary home doesn’t just stay relevant but thrives as a hub of activity and relaxation.
Facade Transformation
The journey from a dated look to a modern exterior is thrilling, and we’ve gone through it first-hand with our home’s facade.
Materials & Texture:
- Concrete: We’ve incorporated concrete elements for a minimalist, chic appearance.
- Red Brick: Soft-washing existing red brick has refreshed the vibrant, warm texture that’s distinctive of our home’s era.
Color & Design:
- Paint choices: Selecting colors that highlight architectural details.
- Landscaping: Complementary plants to accentuate the house’s features.
This thoughtful transformation respects the original 80s vibe while bringing a fresh face to the neighborhood.
My Personal Tips for Adaptive Reuse and Upgrades for Your 80s Contemporary House
Here are my personal tips for YOUR next dream 80s contemporary house!!
| Upgrade Area | Original Feature | Contemporary Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Flooring | Linoleum | Wood floors |
| Walls | Vintage Wallpaper | Bold Paint Choices |
| Functional Spaces | Dated Layouts | Modern Office/Playroom |
| Exterior Drainage | Old Gutters | Efficient Gutter System |
Incorporating these upgrades, we enhance not just the look but also the function and efficiency of our home—a win for both our aesthetics and our utility bills.
FAQ – 80s Contemporary House
How to style a 1980s house?
You can style a 1980s house by incorporating modern elements with a touch of 80s nostalgia. Consider using bold colors, geometric patterns, and incorporating elements like brass metals, pastels, and oversized prints. Embracing the 80s aesthetic while adding contemporary touches can create a unique and stylish look.
How to update 1980s house exterior?
To update a 1980s house exterior, consider new siding, paint in contemporary colors, and update trim details. A project that exemplifies this approach involved painting the exterior of Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore for a dramatic transformation.
What is a contemporary house style?
A contemporary house style is characterized by an emphasis on simplicity, clean lines, open spaces, and the use of natural light. Materials often include glass, steel, and concrete, with an asymmetrical façade and innovative, eco-friendly building materials.
What did houses look like in the 1980s?
In the 1980s, houses often featured busy rooflines, “sandwich grid” divided lite windows and a mix of materials on the façade. Interiors were marked by pastel color palettes, chintz fabrics, and a blend of modern and traditional furniture, reflecting a transitional period in home design.
If you enjoyed our blog post on “80s Contemporary House,” we’d love to hear your thoughts! Please drop us a comment below to share your experiences or insights on the topic.
If you want to keep reading more from us, have a look at these articles.
