This 1980s Design Feature Is Popular Again — And It Can Make Dining Rooms Cozier

After years of neutral colors and minimalist decor being "in," creative 1980s trends are returning to the pages of interior design magazines. Even if you're not ready to commit to a quirky '80s kitchen that will take you back in time, there is one vintage touch you'll love if you prefer cozy, intimate dining rooms. Extra-large, chunky furniture is about to be popular (or should we say tubular?) again.

You might cringe at the thought of oversized couches, tables, and chairs crowding your space, but there are solid reasons to try this trend. To '80s designers, big furniture equaled comfort and luxury, which can still be true today. Furnishings on the larger side make big rooms feel less empty, they're much more comfortable than sparse small furniture, and your whole group of friends and family can spread out and relax. Add in a touch of nostalgic charm, and you'll understand why this not-so-outdated kitchen trend is making a comeback.

Today, you can pick up more furniture that is '80s-esque without the busy too-bright patterns and with a slightly more refined shape. The key to a room that isn't cluttered and overwhelming is to choose one or two large fixtures and balance them out with simpler elements. You also have to arrange big furniture carefully to ensure it doesn't block doors, cabinets, or windows. After you figure out if this trend is right for your room, you'll have tons of fun furnishings to choose from.

Vintage-inspired seating is the easiest 1980s touch for a dining space. Think of a big, comfy sofa or sectional up against a wall with a simple coffee table in front for enjoying drinks, snacks, and light meals. The generous seating will provide all the room your family or guests need. A group of soft, cushy armchairs at the dining table is also a great idea, or you could push them up to a kitchen island for a charming eat-in area.

If you would rather have a classy, opulent dining room, go for a big, ornate table, statement lighting, or even a gorgeous vintage china cabinet. Glossy, lacquered wood furniture was all the rage in the '80s, so look for deep, glossy chairs with cushions on the seats and a matching table (bonus points for a glass top or brass accents). Massive chandeliers were the biggest, brightest lighting staple of the decade, but if that's a bit much for you, install some chunky, funky ceiling lamps instead.

To tie the room together, add curtains, tablecloths, and rugs with checkered, striped, or abstract prints. This retro tip for designing an '80s-inspired kitchen works just as well with dining areas, adding a distinctive charm that's less of a commitment than patterned furniture. Flowery prints would work even better for elegant rooms. All floral everything is an '80s trend not many people remember anymore, but when applied to just one or two elements, it can enhances the vintage feel.