The Colorful Kitchen Design Trend From The '80s More Modern Homes Need

When we covered what kitchens looked like in the 1980s, we were struck by what a goldmine of design the era actually was. Some 40+ years later, the '80s are little more than a vague memory of big hair and great music, but, investigating the matter, that decade really had it going on in the arena of home décor. From old-school wood paneling to on-trend tile counters, there are some aspects of vintage kitchens that are painless to marry with modern sensibilities. Stained glass presents more of a challenge, but it's an incredibly rewarding, striking choice if you dare to incorporate it in your cooking space.

The 1980s actually marked the end of a long revival in stained glass's popularity, which enjoyed a boom post-World War II. It was a moment in American history when the materials to make stained glass were readily available, and the Arts & Crafts movement of the '60s and '70s blew up stained glass as a trend. In the 1980s, you could see stained glass on Tiffany pendant lamps and accent windows, for instance. It's true that, when used aggressively or without regard to the visual balance of your space, stained glass can look "churchy" or dark. We dare to venture, however, that, with a deft hand, stained glass is just the pick-up that your mid-2020s kitchen needs, adding creativity and uniqueness to a part of your home that, all too often, can end up a boring, lifeless, sea of white and stainless steel.

Lamps and light fixtures are great ways to showcase stained glass, but you risk your cooking and dining space looking like an old-school Applebee's. On the other hand, consider stained glass cabinet fronts, which are a stark contrast from the staid wooden Shaker cabinets that so many opt for during a remodel. They offer the same bonuses as open shelving and plain glass cabinets — easy visualization of what's inside and a neat way to display your pretty dishes — but with flair that's completely unexpected in today's homes.

For some real visual interest, consider a bank of stained glass cabinet fronts on your top cabinets, and match a color in the glass to the paint on your lower and surrounding cabinets. White has been prevalent in kitchens for so long now that color by itself is delightfully audacious and demanding of attention, while the stained glass adds a focal point that your guests are sure to admire.

Also, during your kitchen reno, don't discount the appeal of a stained glass window. Yes, it's a bold move, but boldness is too often lacking in modern spaces and gives you a real opportunity to stand out from the crowd. In a kitchen, one stained glass window automatically becomes the centerpiece around which your whole design plan orbits. You can purchase ready-made stained glass windows online, browsing through thousands of sizes and patterns. Or, for those with deep pockets, you can commission a stained glass piece to tell whatever story you chose in the colors and materials you want, keeping in mind that stained "glass" today can also incorporate resin or acrylic for greater durability and cost-efficiency.