The History of Home Trends

When you walk into a home, it’s like stepping into a time capsule. Each decade leaves its mark on design, features, and trends that reflect the tastes, values, and lifestyles of the time. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply fascinated by homes, understanding how trends evolve can give you insights into what buyers want today and what sellers can do to maximize appeal. Let’s take a journey through the decades to explore what was popular then and what’s winning hearts now.

Then: The 1950s brought the rise of the suburban home, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. Mid-century modern architecture flourished, marked by large windows, open floor plans, and functional spaces. Pastel-colored kitchens and tiled bathrooms with colors like mint green and pink were all the rage.

Now: Mid-century modern remains a beloved design style, but buyers now prefer neutral palettes and updated fixtures. Original features like hardwood floors and large windows are sought after, while retro kitchens and bathrooms often get modern makeovers.

Then: These decades embraced boldness—think shag carpets, wood-paneled walls, and avocado green appliances. The open-concept design started gaining momentum, but conversation pits and sunken living rooms stole the show.

Now: While shag carpets and wood paneling feel dated, modern interpretations of open-concept living—with bright, airy spaces—are a must for today’s buyers. Vintage conversation pits are seeing a niche resurgence but are rare in most homes.

Then: The ‘80s saw the rise of sprawling suburban homes, vaulted ceilings, and formal living and dining rooms. Floral wallpaper, brass fixtures, and pastel carpets were everywhere. The bathroom Jacuzzi tub was the ultimate luxury feature.

Now: Today’s buyers still love space but prefer multifunctional rooms over formal ones. Modern brass accents have made a comeback, but the carpeted bathrooms and oversized whirlpool tubs are often first on the renovation list.

Then: Open-concept living truly took off, with kitchen islands becoming central gathering spots. Builder-grade finishes like oak cabinets and beige walls defined this era. Walk-in closets and master suites became essential.

Now: Open-concept layouts still reign supreme, but modern buyers expect high-end finishes, such as quartz countertops and luxury vinyl plank flooring. Those ubiquitous oak cabinets? They’re often replaced or refinished for a more modern look.

2010s-Today: Smart Homes and Sustainability

Then: The 2010s brought an emphasis on energy efficiency and eco-friendly materials. Smart home technology, like programmable thermostats and voice-activated devices, became mainstream. Neutral colors—think greys and whites—dominated.

Now: Today’s buyers want sustainability built in, with features like solar panels, tankless water heaters, and energy-efficient windows. The neutral color trend is evolving into warmer, earthy tones. And smart home tech is now a given rather than a bonus.

• In: Hardwood floors, open-concept layouts, energy-efficient upgrades, neutral palettes, and multifunctional spaces.

• Out: Popcorn ceilings, wall-to-wall carpeting, mismatched appliances, and formal living rooms.

For sellers, knowing what’s in demand can guide smart updates that add value and appeal to buyers. For example, refinishing original hardwood floors or upgrading to energy-efficient windows can yield a high return on investment.

For buyers, understanding past trends helps you identify what features might need updating or how to spot opportunities for adding value to a home.

Here in Denver, we’re lucky to have homes with rich architectural history. From Craftsman bungalows to sleek, modern builds, the city offers a mix of vintage charm and contemporary designs. If you’re a seller, highlight your home’s character while making strategic updates. If you’re a buyer, think about how the style fits your lifestyle and future resale value.

Home trends will continue to evolve, but one thing remains constant: a well-maintained, thoughtfully designed home will always be in demand. At Legacy 100, we’re here to help you navigate the market, whether you’re buying your dream home or selling your current one. Contact us today to learn how we can help make your real estate journey a success!