The One Show’s Alex Jones has given fans a sneak peek inside her countryside Georgian mansion by posting tongue-in-cheek shots from an impromptu photoshoot showcasing some of the more divisive interior design choices inherited from the previous owner.
Dubbing it her ‘1980s time capsule home’, Alex’s photoshoot included a bold, patterned sofa, a tambour unit kitchen and a kitsch home bar. While not everything has stood the test of time, many interior ideas and choices from these styles are set to make a fashionable comeback.
So while Alex appears to be poking fun, she might not want to be too hasty, because many of her 80s interior trends are poised to make a comeback, so they might inspire her while renovating.
Let’s start with the statement patterned sofa. While the brown and beige printed sofa might not be what Alex had in mind for her future home, it nods to something leading interior experts are championing: ‘more is more’. The nostalgic feel of the 80s with patterned sofas and statement sculptural seating is definitely having a resurgence.
“Patterned sofas are trending as the demand for more characterful and colourful interiors continues to rise,” confirms Magdalena Gierasinska, Head of Product and Displays at Barker and Stonehouse.
Not sure where to start, especially after minimalism and neutrals have dominated the trends for many years? Magdalena suggests, “Choose a classic pattern that has stood the test of time. A floral or stripe is a perfect choice, and as these designs have been popular for decades, they really are timeless.
‘Jolene’ print
William Morris
Woodland Weeds Print Velvet 3 Seater Sofa
The sofa wasn’t the only nod to the 80s in Alex’s home; there’s the undeniably kitsch home bar. Which we are very much in favour of, not only because bars are a leading kitchen trend but also because it makes entertaining at home way more fun.
“With more people entertaining at home, the home bar has become an increasingly important element in kitchens, dining spaces and sitting rooms,” says Saskia Blyth, interior designer and Founder of Blyth-Collinson Interiors.
“Even a few rows of bespoke cabinetry can provide an elegant home for glassware, barware, and favourite spirits. If space allows, incorporating a small drinks fridge is an ideal addition, keeping bottles, mixers, and chilled drinks close at hand while maintaining a beautifully streamlined look.”
We hope Alex decides to incorporate elements of the home bar into her renovation plans – or at least saves the fabulous pineapple cocktail shaker.
Retro at it’s finest
Syrisora
Pineapple Cocktail shaker
For this modern-day home bar, Blyth-Collinson Interiors has chosen a rich metallic gold finish flanked by bespoke cabinetry designed to house glassware. The result allows bottles and antique glasses to take centre stage, turning the collection into a decorative feature that feels beautifully integrated with the room.
(Image credit: Blyth Collinson Interiors)
And let’s not forget the star attraction of the kitchen: the ultra-retro tambour units. Featuring roll-up shutter doors made of narrow horizontal slats, the tambour units were incredibly popular in the 80s.
Now, Tambour units might be a step too far for some – but you can still play around with texture and textiles in the kitchen.
An expert representing Kitchens by Holloways explains, “When it comes to the smaller details of a kitchen, texture remains at the forefront. From fluted cabinetry to tongue-and-groove panelling, reeded glass cabinets and warm metal finishes are all ideal ways to add interest and depth to a kitchen.
“Rather than fading into the background, these details are being added in statement locations within the kitchen.”