Design trends of the ’70s to early 2000s: How Boomers and Gen X shaped their homes
Whether you’re renting a mid-century home in Los Angeles or settling into a suburban rental in Seattle, chances are the design choices inside reflect more than just personal taste — they’re shaped by the era you came of age in. For Baby Boomers, that means cozy, timeless interiors with traditional touches. For Gen X, it’s often a mix of practicality and personality, with nods to both modern and retro styles.
From the earth-toned palettes of the 1970s to the tech-ready, transitional spaces of the early 2000s, each generation has left its mark on how homes are built and styled. In this Redfin article, experts weigh in on the defining design trends of the Gen X and Boomer decades — and how those choices still influence homes today.
How Boomers design their homes
Here’s how design experts describe the aesthetics shaped by the Boomer generation (1946–1964). From traditional touches to comfort-driven layouts, their style reflects decades of lived experience, and many of these timeless elements can still be recreated and loved in modern homes today.
1. Nostalgia meets craftsmanship and durability
“Boomers often design with nostalgia in mind,” says Angela Johnson of The Johnson & Lopez Group. “You’ll see family heirlooms, antiques, or replicas of items from their youth. Matching furniture sets are common, like coordinated bed frames, dressers, and nightstands, as well as repeated fabric patterns on drapes and upholstery. There’s also a strong emphasis on quality, with many pieces kept and cared for over decades.”
2. Prioritizing comfort and staying longer in the home
“The Boomer generation is now focused on aging in place,” says Jennifer Ramsey of Jennifer Ramsey Interiors. “Maintaining their independence is a top priority, so many are remodeling to stay in their homes as long as possible. They care less about trends and more about comfort and functionality. Most already have a defined style — it’s our job to enhance that and create a space that feels cohesive and approachable.”
3. Mix rich colors and classic design with bold personality
“What I love most about working with Boomers is their appreciation for timeless, high-quality, and distinctive furniture,” says Paulina Hospod, President of AhA! Interiors. “They gravitate toward rich hues like forest green and mustard, and they’re not afraid of bold wallpaper or marble. Many mix patterns and textures confidently — neutral isn’t their go-to. They also design for family, creating playful backyards and cozy spaces for their grandkids to enjoy.”
4. Design for aging — before you need it
“Many Boomers are still chasing the dream home — often two-story with a view — without considering future mobility,” says Dr. Jane Bringolf, Chair of the Centre for Universal Design Australia. “Features that support aging in place, like step-free entrances or wider doors, I’ve noticed are often dismissed or misunderstood as costly or unattractive. Even when people are aware of the benefits, builders may discourage them or fail to deliver. Unless someone has firsthand experience with disability, these choices are rarely prioritized — until it’s too late.”
5. Balance trend and tradition with a tailored approach
“It’s hard to generalize across the board,” says Adam Hicks of CooperBuild. “Some Boomer clients are trend-conscious — think sleek SoHo lofts — while others prefer classic elegance, like Upper East Side traditionalism. But overall, Boomers tend to lean more reserved in their design choices compared to other generations, who often embrace glossier, more expressive styles.”
6. Prioritize lower-maintenance design
“We use a lot of universal design principles for Boomers,” says Jessica Holwick of Restart Renovation and Design. “They favor transitional style — nothing too modern or too traditional — with practicality and low maintenance as top priorities. We’re incorporating zero-entry showers, heated floors, bidet toilets, wide doorways, one-level layouts, and cabinetry with pull-out drawers.”
7. Mix classics and patterns for a comfortable personality
“As a younger Boomer, I love classic furniture like Chesterfield sofas and cozy wing chairs, paired with modern accessories,” says Elizabeth “Betsy” Ramsey, founder of Natty Gal. “I keep large pieces neutral, then layer in seasonal color with throws and pillows. To add personality, I mix patterns—our living room has leopard print drapes that complement the zebra-print wing chair in neutral tones.”
8. Design with comfort, texture, and future resale in mind
“Boomers are playing it safe with neutral color palettes but taking more risks with style,” says Dominique, also known as interior designer Dominique Elizabeth. “They’re embracing zellige tile, fluted finishes, and wood-like textures that add comfort and dimension. Their choices are often guided by timeless design principles, a focus on return on investment, and consideration for what will appeal to future heirs.”
9. Blend style, function, and future flexibility
“Boomers want homes that are easy to clean and plan for the future without sacrificing style,” says Elizabeth Dodson, co-founder of HomeZada. “Think single-hole faucets, fewer dust-prone moldings, and aging-in-place features like first-floor suites, wider doorways, and elevators. They favor open layouts, more natural light, and multipurpose spaces that support entertaining, managing a household, or even doing yoga. It’s all about smart, stylish longevity.”
10. Designing the bathroom you will need
“Boomers often ask for standalone tubs because they look great, but they can quickly become safety hazards,” says Karen Billman of Billman Designs. “Many don’t realize the risk of lifting a leg and balancing until it’s too late. We’re installing walk-in showers, non-slip floors, and grab bars that double as towel holders — brands like Kohler and Delta now design them to blend in stylishly. It’s much easier and more cost-effective to build for safety in your 60s than to retrofit after a fall in your 80s.”
11. Choose quality over trend
“When it comes to Boomer design preferences, credibility drives every decision,” says David Doan, owner and COO of Artisan Interiors. “They rely on referrals, reviews, and real conversations before hiring a designer. Timeless styles like English manor, French country, and midcentury modern are common requests. Boomers also favor locally made, high-quality furnishings over mass-produced imports — they want design that lasts.”
How Gen X designs their homes
Here’s how experts define the Gen X design aesthetic, rooted in the late ’60s through early 1980s. Influenced by analog childhoods and evolving technology, Gen Xers value quiet luxury, layered neutrals, and spaces that feel curated, personal, and built for real life that we can all learn from.
1. Layer warmth, comfort, and craftsmanship with purpose
“Gen X homeowners are drawn to design that balances sophistication with soul,” says Kimberli Roth of CLAY+CODA. “They favor warm woods, natural materials, and vintage pieces that feel storied and substantial. Many prefer defined layouts over open plans, creating private nooks or hobby rooms tailored to their interests. Raised on the aesthetics of the ’70s and ’80s, they embrace layered neutrals, comfort, and craftsmanship that lasts.”
2. Blend timeless style with integrated smart design
“Gen X shifted away from the oversaturated harvest tones of Boomers, opting for cooler palettes and a more timeless, streamlined look,” says Maggie of Hudson Blau Designs. “They love combining technology and comfort, like heated floors, integrated speakers, smart showers, and color-changing lights — all enhancing both utility and ambiance. Their style is understated yet luxurious, always tailored to personal taste.”
3. Prioritize function, calm, and community in every design
“Gen X isn’t interested in flash or oversized homes: They want comfort, quality, and spaces that support their full lives,” says Wendy C. Devine of FivePoint Valencia® Homes. “They favor efficient floor plans, neutral palettes, spa-like bathrooms, and tech that actually works. With kids, parents, and careers, quiet zones and smart features help them recharge. They also value community amenities that support wellness, like trails and shared green spaces.”
4. Mix classic style with bold, personalized touches
“Gen X is done with gray walls and dull design,” says Sharon E. O’Brien of Beaumont Interiors. “They blend warm and cool colors that are eye-catching yet livable. They’re trend-aware but ultimately choose textures, furnishings, and art that reflect their lifestyle. A mix of classic furniture, metal finishes, and thoughtful accessories defines their balanced, elevated style.”
5. Design with soul, not trends
“Gen X design is shaped by an analog upbringing — mixtapes, dial-up, and spaces that feel soulful and intentional,” says Maresa McNamara of Spazi Design. “We’re drawn to rich woods, organic textures, and pieces that feel collected over time, not staged. For many of us, design isn’t about chasing trends — it’s about crafting timeless spaces that are clean, modern, and deeply personal.”
6. Layer meaning into every detail
“Gen X gravitates toward timeless, lived-in spaces that mix sophistication with comfort,” says the team at Earthen Home. “They favor hand-textured walls, artisanal pieces, and layouts that reflect both style and real-life function. Curated collections, meaningful art, and hobby nooks help create homes that are warm, layered, and uniquely theirs.”
7. Blend quiet luxury with daily function
“Gen X homes strike a balance between practicality and understated luxury,” says Libby Moffatt Strain of Advanced Construction and Design, Inc. “They love smart storage, custom cabinetry, and layouts that support multitasking — like home offices, hobby rooms, or media spaces. Their style leans into layered neutrals and tactile materials, reflecting a desire for both comfort and timeless design.”
8. Build to last
“Gen X knows that style means nothing without staying power. That’s why they choose materials like Litokol Grout—UV-stable, waterproof, and virtually maintenance-free. Unlike traditional grout, it won’t crack, stain, or fade over time. We call it the forever grout—and we mean it,” says Stephanie Moore from Tile Doctor.
9. Fill space with art
“As a Gen Xer, I deeply value quality craftsmanship—fine art details that reflect time and intention. I’m drawn to spaces where you can feel the creator’s passion, whether in thoughtfully designed architecture or hand-finished pieces. At the same time, I believe a home should feel spacious and cultivated, with room to move freely and experience a sense of flow,” says Elena Sullivan, fine art photographer at Elena Photo Art.
English (US) · 