The 1980s were a time of bold trends and experimentation in the world of furniture design. Bright colors, geometric patterns, and unconventional materials dominated the decade, leaving behind pieces that were once ridiculed for their over-the-top style. Fast forward to today, and many of these once-mocked items are now sought-after treasures. From iconic chairs to statement sofas, these pieces have experienced a serious revival, with collectors and design enthusiasts willing to pay top dollar for the unique charm they offer.
1. Memphis Group Furniture
In the early 1980s, a design movement known as Memphis emerged, characterized by its use of bold geometric shapes, bright colors, and unusual materials. Designed by Italian architect Ettore Sottsass and his colleagues, Memphis Group pieces were considered tacky and gaudy by many at the time. However, today, vintage pieces such as the “Carlton” bookshelf or the “Tahiti” table are highly sought after by collectors. As reported by Architectural Digest, these iconic designs have now become a symbol of postmodernism and are commanding prices of up to $100,000 in some cases.
These pieces are a reflection of the era’s push against traditional design norms, embracing a playful and artistic approach. Their vibrant colors and unique forms make them stand out in any modern space, and their rarity has contributed to their growing value. Whether displayed in a museum or an upscale designer home, Memphis furniture continues to fetch impressive sums on the secondary market.
2. Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman
While Charles and Ray Eames’ furniture designs are often associated with mid-century modernism, their famous lounge chair and ottoman became an even bigger icon in the 1980s. Though originally introduced in 1956, the 1980s saw a resurgence in interest for these luxurious leather chairs. According to The New York Times, collectors were willing to pay upwards of $20,000 for a well-preserved vintage version, making it one of the most coveted items of the decade. With its sleek curves and exceptional craftsmanship, the Eames Lounge Chair remains a timeless piece that commands attention in any room.
Over the years, the Eames Lounge Chair has become synonymous with luxury and comfort. The combination of rich leather, polished wood, and elegant design has made it a sought-after item in contemporary interiors. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the lasting appeal of the Eames’ vision, and its value only continues to rise.
3. The “Papasan” Chair
The “Papasan” chair, a round, cushioned chair that was popular in the 1980s, was once considered a silly and impractical piece of furniture. Made from rattan or wicker and featuring an oversized bowl-shaped cushion, it was often associated with dorm rooms or laid-back living spaces. However, as the 1980s faded into the 1990s, the Papasan chair was forgotten by most. Fast forward to today, and the chair has seen a resurgence in popularity, according to BuzzFeed. With its oversized cushion and cozy design, the Papasan has become a highly sought-after item, with prices ranging from $200 to $500 for vintage models.
Collectors and interior designers are drawn to the Papasan chair’s nostalgic appeal and retro flair. While it may not be as high-end as some other pieces on this list, its value has risen due to its unique design and scarcity in the current market. The Papasan is now seen as a quirky, comfortable addition to any space, with modern renditions staying true to its 1980s roots.
4. The “Z Chair”
The “Z Chair” was a futuristic-looking piece that garnered little love when it first debuted. It was considered impractical, uncomfortable, and visually odd. However, over time, its minimalist design and innovative use of materials have made it an iconic representation of the 1980s’ avant-garde style. Today, collectors can find vintage versions of the Z Chair fetching anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000, as reported by the Museum of Modern Art.
The Z Chair’s design was groundbreaking in its simplicity, offering a sleek and functional aesthetic that many contemporary designers now embrace. Its clean lines and angular shape make it a standout piece in any interior, and its rarity only adds to its value. The chair’s rise in popularity is a testament to the changing tastes in furniture, as what was once ridiculed is now revered for its unique design.
5. Boho-Inspired Rattan Furniture
Rattan furniture was a favorite in 1980s living rooms, thanks to its lightweight and earthy aesthetic. Often paired with brightly colored cushions and floral prints, these pieces were sometimes considered too casual or bohemian for more formal settings. However, as more people embraced natural, sustainable materials in the 2020s, rattan furniture made a major comeback. Today, vintage rattan chairs, tables, and sofas can sell for significant amounts, especially if they feature intricate designs or a unique color palette.
Incorporating rattan into modern spaces has become a hallmark of laid-back, eclectic style. Whether it’s a rattan lounge chair or a vintage coffee table, these pieces now bring a sense of warmth and texture to interior design. Their growing popularity can be attributed to the current trend of blending retro elements with contemporary furniture, resulting in a perfect mix of old and new.
6. The “Ball Chair”
Designed by Finnish architect Eero Aarnio in 1963, the Ball Chair became a hit in the 1980s as people began to embrace its futuristic and bold design. The spherical structure and sleek look of the chair were a radical departure from traditional seating, which made it a favorite among avant-garde design enthusiasts. Though not as widely adopted as some other pieces, the Ball Chair has become a rare find in today’s market, with vintage models fetching as much as $15,000 or more.
The chair’s iconic round shape and chrome base continue to make it an eye-catching piece of furniture. Over the years, the Ball Chair has become synonymous with mid-century modern design and futuristic thinking. As the demand for retro furniture continues to rise, the Ball Chair’s value shows no signs of slowing down, making it a hot commodity among collectors.
7. The “Chaise Lounge”
Chaise lounges were a staple in many 1980s homes, often used in living rooms and master bedrooms as a statement piece. While they were once considered somewhat outdated, today they are enjoying a resurgence thanks to their luxurious design and comfortable seating. These long, upholstered pieces are perfect for relaxing or lounging, and as mid-century modern and vintage furniture continue to gain popularity, their value has skyrocketed. A well-preserved chaise lounge from the 1980s can now fetch prices upwards of $2,000.
Many interior designers are bringing back the chaise lounge in contemporary settings, often pairing them with modern minimalist decor to create a contrast of old and new. Whether in velvet or leather, the chaise lounge is making its way back into upscale homes, further driving up its value. The timeless design and comfort of this piece make it an enduring favorite among collectors.
8. The “Bertoia Diamond Chair”
Originally designed by Harry Bertoia in the 1950s, the Diamond Chair became popular again in the 1980s thanks to its minimalist style and use of welded wire. Its geometric design made it stand out in a sea of traditional chairs, and its influence can still be seen in modern furniture today. With its elegant yet industrial look, the Diamond Chair now fetches anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on its condition and the version.
The Diamond Chair’s iconic shape and unique construction have made it a favorite among collectors and designers alike. Its ability to complement both mid-century and contemporary interiors has contributed to its growing value. As demand for high-quality vintage furniture continues to rise, the Diamond Chair remains a symbol of innovation and design excellence.
9. Iconic 1980s Sofas
While many sofa styles from the 1980s have fallen out of favor, some have become collectors’ items. Sofas with bold patterns, oversized proportions, and unique textures were all the rage during the decade. Now, many of these statement pieces, especially those from high-end manufacturers, are being sold at auction for significant sums. With their luxurious fabrics and unique designs, these sofas evoke a sense of nostalgia while adding a touch of retro charm to any space.
These oversized, statement-making sofas offer a perfect blend of comfort and style. With modern design trends favoring eclectic and vintage-inspired looks, the value of iconic 1980s sofas continues to rise. Collectors and design enthusiasts alike are eager to get their hands on these once-forgotten pieces, ensuring their place in today’s interiors.
10. Curved-Back Chairs
The curved-back chairs of the 1980s were often seen as a bold, almost excessive design choice. With their sweeping lines and often exaggerated curves, these chairs were once viewed as impractical and overdone. However, today they are highly valued for their sculptural quality and artistic appeal. Many of these chairs were designed by well-known designers and are now sought after by collectors, fetching prices as high as $3,000 for a vintage piece.
These chairs combine both form and function, offering a striking visual while still providing comfort. Their unique shape and design make them stand out in any space, whether used as a focal point in a living room or as an accent piece in a more minimalist setting. As more people embrace maximalist and retro-inspired design, the curved-back chair has seen a major rise in value.
11. Vintage Bar Carts
Bar carts were a hallmark of 1980s entertaining, often seen in living rooms and home bars. These stylish carts, complete with built-in shelves, mirrored surfaces, and shiny metal accents, were once seen as a luxury item. Today, vintage bar carts from the 1980s are considered a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of retro glam to their home. Prices for well-maintained pieces can reach upwards of $1,500, especially for those made by high-end manufacturers.
With the revival of mid-century and 1980s-inspired design, bar carts are now back in style and in high demand. Their versatile design makes them perfect for use in various spaces, from dining rooms to home offices. Whether used to hold cocktail supplies or display decorative items, these vintage carts continue to command high prices, making them a worthwhile investment for collectors.
12. Retro Office Chairs
In the 1980s, office furniture was designed for both function and flair, with sleek, ergonomic office chairs becoming a status symbol for professionals. These chairs were often upholstered in leather, vinyl, or brightly colored fabric, and many featured bold, futuristic designs. Today, these retro office chairs are worth a lot of money, especially those made by renowned brands like Herman Miller or Steelcase. A vintage 1980s office chair can fetch upwards of $1,000 if it’s in good condition.
As workspaces become more personalized and design-forward, retro office chairs have become highly desirable for both home offices and professional environments. Their unique design and functionality make them a practical yet stylish choice, further boosting their value in the marketplace.
