The Old-School Kitchen Design From The '80s We Wish Would Come Back

In America, the 1980s featured many unique interior design choices, many of which are nowadays dripping with nostalgia. When we take off the rose-tinted glasses, though, a lot of '80s design trends can be hit or miss. Neon lights and winding floral wallpaper plastered on every wall? Perhaps that's a miss for you, though we do think you ought to give bold wallpaper a second look. But one definite hit from '80s interior design, at least to our minds, is wooden kitchen paneling.

Wood paneling is a timeless, classy look that goes well with almost any other kitchen design choice. The wide variety of different textures and colors means that there's something suited to every kitchen. So, no matter what look you're aiming for with your cooking space, you can in all likelihood find a wood panel style that's right for you. It's living proof that plenty of '80s kitchen trends belong in modern times, so don't be afraid to pick up a blast from the past if you're looking to redo your kitchen.

Part of the reason wooden kitchen paneling became so popular back in the day was because of color trends at the time. Bright, vibrant colors were in for many folks, but so were earth tones, especially deep chocolate brown. Many kitchens the exemplified the '80s style also came with lots of white paint and black appliances, which served as a beautiful complement to the more natural aesthetic of wood panels.

If you want to install wood paneling in your kitchen, the trend has picked up some momentum in recent years and can add real value to your home if done thoughtfully. Even if you don't want real wood paneling, you can get peel-and-stick planks that create the same aesthetic. Wood paneling doesn't have to cover a whole room, either, but can highlight a wall or set of cabinets. Consider whether you want a dark-toned wood, something lighter in line with Scandinavian vibes, or even painted or stained panels.

If you're going to get wood paneling for your kitchen, consider pairing it with other old-school '80s kitchen trends. A greenhouse window is another design trend from the era that can pair great with your new paneling, along with black trim and appliances. It all falls in line with the warm, homey tones of wood paneling.

Of course, if you do decide to install wood paneling, be prepared for the practical aspects of it as well as the aesthetic. Depending on the type, it may need more maintenance than drywall or wallpaper and shouldn't necessarily be exposed to a lot of direct sunlight or heat. You will also likely want the wood treated to ensure it doesn't become a fire hazard or fall prey to wood-eating pests like termites. On the plus side, though, wood paneling also saves you money by making your heating more efficient, and with the proper maintenance, it can last for decades.