Interior design trends from the 1990s are experiencing a revival, with elements like skirted sofas, inflatable furniture, and pine kitchens reappearing in contemporary homes. This resurgence offers a mix of nostalgic charm and practical updates, moving beyond the more ornate styles of the past.
Skirted sofas, once associated with traditional decor, are being reinterpreted with modern fabrics like washed linen in muted tones. These skirts offer a practical benefit by concealing furniture legs, cables, and dust. Laura Ashley has introduced a new collection featuring sofas and chairs with neat pleats, with skirted armchairs starting at £299. Complementary pouffes can enhance the 90s aesthetic.
Inflatable chairs, a quirky novelty item from the 1990s, are also making a comeback, notably with Ikea's relaunched PS collection. The updated versions feature steel frames and a linen-like finish, offering a more durable and refined option compared to their 1990s predecessors. Assembly is simplified, requiring only a foot pump.
Pine kitchens, which fell out of favor for being too orange and associated with country styles, are now being embraced again. The contemporary approach involves using pine sparingly, such as a simple timber cabinetry or veneers, combined with painted walls, stone countertops, and modern hardware. This avoids the overwhelming look of full pine sets. Kitchen designers like Lozi in East London are offering bespoke kitchens with a minimalist 90s influence.