Grandmacore: Why grandma's living room is suddenly hip again I MYHOME BLOG

Heavy oak cabinets, crocheted doilies and floral wallpaper – what used to be considered stuffy is now conquering social media. The new Grandmacore living trend turns the 1980s living room into the ultimate interior statement.

No more minimalism and industrial chic! Generation Z has discovered a new source of inspiration when it comes to furnishing: their grandmother’s living room. What was ridiculed for decades as outdated is suddenly being celebrated. Grandmacore is the name of the trend that is bringing grandma’s flowered sofas and heavy wooden furniture back into the limelight.

What’s behind the Grandmacore hype?

Grandmacore is pure 1980s nostalgia – but not the glitzy Miami Vice version, but the cozy version from the living rooms at home. The term first appeared on TikTok, where young people began to celebrate their grandmothers’ furnishings. Suddenly, crocheted doilies were no longer embarrassing, but “aesthetic”.

The pandemic has given this trend a real boost. When the home became the center of life, many people longed for real coziness instead of cold perfection. Gen Z discovered an aesthetic of coziness in old family photos – and turned it into a viral hit. What is particularly fascinating is that many of those who celebrate this style today never consciously experienced the 1980s.

Grandmacore, Interior, Furnishing — Old furniture from grandma’s collection creates a cozy atmosphere.

How authentic 80s living style works

A real Grandmacore apartment follows a simple principle: coziness beats design. The basic structure is based on heavy, dark furniture as the foundation, with textiles in various patterns creating a cozy atmosphere. Collector’s items and personal belongings are prominently displayed, while warm, indirect lighting creates the right atmosphere. Each room has its own clear function – chaotic open-space concepts were unthinkable at the time.

Cosy world of colors: from beige to bordeaux

Forget the bright neon colors of the 1980s – the grandmacore feeling is created by earth tones and muted nuances. Brown tones in all variations dominate, combined with beige and cream as a calming base. Dusky pink and dusty rose tones create romantic moments, while sage green and olive green add natural accents. Bold touches are added by bordeaux and wine red, while golden details round off the whole look.

There is a cheerful variety of patterns: small floral wallpapers on the walls, paisley patterns on the cushions, subtle checks for structure. Oriental rugs brought an exotic touch to the bourgeois living room, while lace doilies and crochet work demonstrated craftsmanship.

This furniture makes the 80s look

The furniture of the 80s is characterized by solidity and functionality. The living room is dominated by heavy leather furniture in brown or cognac, often combined with solid dark wood wall units. Coffee tables made of heavy wood with glass tops form the center of the seating area, while TV cabinets are now perfect for modern TVs. Floor lamps with fabric shades provide the typical warm lighting.

The dining room is characterized by extendable solid wood tables, surrounded by upholstered chairs with wooden frames. A credenza stores the good crockery, while collector’s items find their place of honor in the display cabinet. In the bedroom, the emphasis is on complete sets – dressing tables with mirrors, solid closets with sliding doors and practical bedside tables with plenty of storage space.

Modern living with a touch of grandmacore

You don’t have to turn your whole home upside down. Grandmacore also works in chunks: Combine your modern sofa with a crocheted blanket and embroidered cushions – instant 80s vibe without a total makeover. An antique secretary or a solid sideboard becomes an eye-catcher in an otherwise contemporary room. Details make all the difference!

Porcelain figurines from Hummel or Goebel are a must for the decorations, while crystal bowls and brass candlesticks add sparkle. Wall plates with landscape motifs and indoor plants in planters – preferably rubber trees or dieffenbachias – complete the picture.

Family photos in golden frames on the wall, plus macramé hangings and mirrors with carved frames – the authentic 80s ambience is complete.

You can also use color bridges: an antique pink armchair or sage green carpet cleverly combines old and new. Swap harsh LED spotlights for warm floor and table lamps with fabric shades – and the modern room will look cozier.

On a treasure hunt: Where can you find real 1980s pieces?

The hunt for authentic pieces becomes an adventure – you can find real finds online. Etsy offers curated vintage treasures, Facebook Marketplace surprises with bargains.

It gets even more exciting offline: Flea markets are real goldmines, second-hand stores offer a curated selection. Household clearances and bulky waste (with permission!) can be rich. Insider tip: Ask your family! Grandma and auntie often still have originals in the cellar or attic.

Why Grandmacore hits the nerve of our time

This style stands for deceleration in a hectic time, for craftsmanship in a throwaway society. Grandmacore is also sustainable: instead of buying new things, treasures are rediscovered and family heirlooms are honored.

In the end, this trend teaches us something important: sometimes the new lies in the seemingly old. Grandma’s living room wasn’t so bad after all – it was perhaps just ahead of its time.