House from the 1980s

1980s family living in a Block-Watne House

The 1980s family living across from the 1970s house has chosen a home produced by Block-Watne (Block 18). The family consists of a mother, father, teenage daughter, and a young son.

Exterior Trends: White Houses and Valmet Roofs
During the 1980s, white houses became highly popular. This single-story home with a full basement features a valmet roof with black cement tiles. The windows and shutters are accented with pink, reflecting the decade’s fondness for soft colors.

Interior Design: Pastel Colors Dominate
Inside, pastel colors such as pink, light blue, and mint green dominate the décor. The patterns are subtler compared to the bold styles of the 1970s. The mother’s passion for crafts is evident, with crocheted doilies and other handmade items spread throughout the home. The living room features "Korea paneling" in a mahogany imitation on the end wall, a curved sofa in light velour, and a large, brass-colored coffee table with a glass top.

The 1980s Patio: A Hub for Outdoor Living
The house boasts a large, partially covered terrace—a key feature in 1980s homes. Outdoor spaces became increasingly important, serving as areas for grilling, dining, games, and sunbathing.

Collectibles and Antiques in the 1980s
Though trips to southern Europe (Syden) were still out of reach for most families, collecting miniature liquor bottles became a trend, especially for those living near airports. This collection, along with other knick-knacks, fills the living room. The family also embraced the 1980s trend of collecting antiques, with items like a samovar and an old milk churn adding charm to the décor.

Waterbeds: A 1980s Icon
One of the quintessential 1980s items in this house is the waterbed in the parents’ bedroom. Once very popular, waterbeds eventually posed problems like seasickness, weight distribution issues, and even leaks and mold. Although once a symbol of modernity, waterbeds have largely faded from use.