Minimalism has had its moment, but in 2025, cozy and nostalgic design elements inspired by grandma’s house are making a comeback. From rich patterns to heirloom-style furniture, people are embracing décor that feels warm, layered, and full of personality. This shift reflects a desire for spaces that feel lived-in and welcoming rather than stark and impersonal. If you’re ready to trade in sterile white walls for something with more soul, these grandma-inspired trends are worth considering.
1. Floral Wallpaper
Once considered outdated, floral wallpaper is now a top trend in home design. Large-scale floral prints with bold colors bring character and warmth to any space. According to Architectural Digest, designers are incorporating vintage-inspired patterns in modern ways, such as accent walls and powder rooms. Whether it’s a delicate botanical motif or a bold, oversized floral print, this classic touch makes a statement.
The appeal of floral wallpaper lies in its ability to add instant charm without the need for excessive décor. Many homeowners are choosing peel-and-stick options, making it easier than ever to embrace this trend without a long-term commitment. Mixing florals with other vintage elements, like antique mirrors or brass light fixtures, enhances the nostalgic aesthetic. The result is a space that feels inviting and rich with personality.
2. Lace Curtains
Lace curtains evoke a sense of nostalgia while allowing soft, diffused light to enter a room. These delicate window treatments are returning in a big way, offering a romantic and airy feel. As reported by Elle Decor, homeowners are layering lace curtains with heavier drapes to achieve a balanced look that feels both classic and current. The combination allows for privacy without completely blocking natural light.
While white lace remains the most traditional choice, modern versions come in a variety of colors and patterns. Some people are opting for vintage lace finds, giving their homes a truly authentic feel. Others prefer contemporary lace styles with geometric or abstract designs, merging the old with the new. Either way, lace curtains are an easy way to bring timeless elegance into any space.
3. Needlepoint Art
Once a staple of grandma’s living room, needlepoint art is now being embraced by younger generations. Hand-stitched designs featuring florals, animals, and even witty phrases are popping up in stylish homes. According to The New York Times, the renewed interest in handcrafted décor is part of a broader movement toward slow living and sustainable design. Vintage needlepoint pieces, once dismissed as outdated, are now being repurposed as quirky, artistic focal points.
Displaying needlepoint art adds a personal and nostalgic touch to any room. Some homeowners are framing these intricate works, while others are using them to create decorative pillows or upholstery. Pairing needlepoint with modern furniture creates an interesting contrast that keeps the space from feeling too traditional. Whether found at an antique shop or handmade, this trend brings a sense of warmth and craftsmanship to home décor.
4. Skirted Tables
Skirted tables are making a strong return, bringing elegance and softness to living spaces. This classic décor feature involves draping a round or rectangular table with fabric, often in floral or toile prints. House Beautiful notes that skirted tables not only add texture to a room but also serve a functional purpose by hiding storage underneath. This makes them especially useful in smaller spaces where extra storage is needed.
Unlike the heavy, overly formal versions of the past, today’s skirted tables often feature lighter fabrics and playful patterns. Many homeowners are customizing their table skirts with trims, ruffles, or fringe for added charm. These tables fit seamlessly into a variety of home styles, from traditional to eclectic. Whether placed in an entryway or as a side table, they provide an instant vintage-inspired upgrade.
5. Quilted Bedding
Quilts, once associated with rural country homes, are now a chic and cozy addition to modern bedrooms. Layering a quilt over a bedspread adds texture, warmth, and a handmade touch. Whether it’s a vintage heirloom or a newly crafted design, quilts bring a sense of comfort that mass-produced bedding often lacks. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors make them a standout piece in any bedroom.
Many homeowners are embracing patchwork quilts for their unique, one-of-a-kind appeal. The mix of patterns and colors creates a lived-in look that feels welcoming and personal. Even in minimalist spaces, a well-placed quilt can add just the right amount of warmth and personality. This trend proves that old-fashioned craftsmanship never goes out of style.
6. China Cabinets
China cabinets were once a fixture in every dining room, but they fell out of favor as open shelving gained popularity. Now, these elegant display pieces are making a comeback, offering both storage and sophistication. Instead of storing fine china, homeowners are using them to showcase everything from glassware to books and decorative objects. Their enclosed design keeps items dust-free while adding a structured look to the space.
Vintage and antique china cabinets are especially in demand, with many people refinishing them in bold colors. Some opt for glass-paneled versions to create an airy, open feel, while others prefer solid doors for a more traditional look. Adding lighting inside the cabinet can further enhance its visual appeal. Whether used in a dining room or repurposed as a living room display, china cabinets bring an old-world charm that feels fresh again.
7. Gingham and Plaid Fabrics
Patterns like gingham and plaid have a cozy, nostalgic quality that’s becoming increasingly popular. These prints, often found on curtains, upholstery, and even wallpaper, add a sense of warmth and casual elegance. The resurgence of traditional textiles reflects a growing appreciation for classic patterns that never truly go out of style. Whether in neutral tones or bold colors, gingham and plaid bring a comforting, homey feel to interiors.
Decorators are using these patterns in unexpected ways, such as accent chairs, table linens, and even ceiling treatments. Mixing gingham with floral prints or other vintage elements enhances the layered aesthetic that defines this trend. Even small touches, like plaid throw pillows, can introduce the style without overwhelming a space. The key is to blend these patterns thoughtfully for a balanced, inviting look.
8. Doilies as Décor
Doilies, once tucked away in drawers, are now being repurposed in creative and stylish ways. Instead of being used solely as table protectors, they are being framed as art, turned into lace-patterned bowls, or layered under glass on coffee tables. Their delicate patterns add a soft, feminine touch that contrasts beautifully with modern furnishings. This reinvention makes them feel less old-fashioned and more like intricate works of art.
Layering doilies on shelves or incorporating them into boho-style wall hangings brings a fresh perspective to this traditional décor piece. Some designers are even using them to create DIY lampshades or curtains for a subtle lace effect. The trick to making doilies look chic rather than outdated is to mix them with other modern elements. When used thoughtfully, they add texture and charm without feeling overdone.
9. Vintage Oil Paintings
Forget mass-produced wall art—vintage oil paintings are becoming a staple in home décor. These traditional artworks, often featuring landscapes, portraits, or still life compositions, add depth and history to a space. Their rich textures and muted color palettes make them easy to incorporate into various styles, from classic to modern. Whether sourced from antique shops or inherited from family members, these pieces bring an unmatched sense of character to any room.
One of the best ways to display vintage oil paintings is by creating a gallery wall with an eclectic mix of frames. Combining ornate gold frames with simpler wooden ones keeps the arrangement from feeling too formal. Many homeowners are also embracing the trend of leaning artwork on shelves or mantels for a relaxed, collected-over-time look. No matter how they’re displayed, vintage oil paintings infuse homes with a timeless, lived-in aesthetic.
10. Chintz Upholstery
Chintz fabrics, known for their glossy finish and floral patterns, are making a comeback in a big way. Once a staple in traditional English interiors, this fabric is being reimagined in modern settings. Designers are pairing chintz-upholstered furniture with contemporary pieces to create a stylish contrast. The mix of old and new keeps the look fresh while still embracing the nostalgic charm that makes chintz so beloved.
From sofas to armchairs and even headboards, chintz upholstery adds instant elegance to any space. Layering it with neutral-toned furniture can balance the pattern-heavy look, preventing it from feeling overwhelming. Many homeowners are also opting for chintz throw pillows or ottomans as an easy way to dip into the trend without a full commitment. The resurgence of this fabric proves that classic prints never truly go out of style.
11. Statement Lamps with Fringe or Beaded Detailing
Lighting is no longer just functional—it’s a key design element, and statement lamps with fringe or beaded detailing are stealing the show. These lamps, reminiscent of the early 20th century, bring a vintage flair that instantly elevates a room. Whether featuring tasseled edges or delicate glass beads, these details create a luxurious, old-world feel. The soft, diffused glow from fringe-trimmed lampshades also adds warmth and ambiance to any space.
To keep this trend from feeling too dated, many decorators are pairing vintage-inspired lamps with sleek, modern furniture. Placing one on a nightstand or side table can serve as a subtle nod to the past without overwhelming the space. Some homeowners are even embracing colored glass bases or art deco designs for an extra dose of personality. No matter the style, these statement lamps prove that a little embellishment goes a long way.
12. Wallpapered Ceilings
While wallpapered walls have made a strong comeback, wallpapered ceilings are now taking center stage. This unexpected design choice, often referred to as the “fifth wall,” adds drama and depth to any room. Floral patterns, damask prints, or even textured wallpaper can transform a plain ceiling into a stunning focal point. By drawing the eye upward, this trend makes spaces feel more dynamic and visually interesting.
For a balanced look, many homeowners are choosing subtle, neutral-toned wallpapers that complement the rest of the room. Others are going bold with intricate designs that make a grand statement, especially in dining rooms and bedrooms. Pairing a wallpapered ceiling with vintage chandeliers or ornate crown molding enhances the nostalgic feel. This trend proves that sometimes, looking up is the best way to rethink home décor.
