Gen Z is turning away from grey minimalism in favour of “Grandma’s House” interiors, filling homes with dark wood, patterned fabrics, vintage furniture and decorative clutter.
The look, described by interior designers as “grandma chic”, draws on tastes associated with the 1970s while combining them with modern colours and contemporary pieces. Books, ceramics, candles, prints, unusual lamps and ornaments are being displayed rather than hidden away.
Designers at My Bespoke Room, which has worked with dozens of 18 to 30-year-olds, said they had noticed the trend among younger clients. Designer Milena Vallier said: “Gen Z want classy clutter, mid-century furniture, brought up to date with modern tones.”
Instead of choosing matching furniture, customers are mixing pieces from different periods and combining second-hand finds with high-street purchases and more expensive statement items. A £40 vintage table, for example, may sit beside a £1,500 sofa.
The style has also been adopted by celebrities. Kendall Jenner showcased her “granny chic” mountain home in Wyoming in December last year, helping to bring the once-dated aesthetic to a wider audience.
High-street homeware brands including Zara are also embracing the fashion, selling crystal glasses, floral crockery, patterned blankets and vintage-style vases.
How Gen Z interiors are bringing back vintage style
Preferred colours include chocolate brown, burgundy, earthy green and butter yellow, alongside warmer neutrals and less predictable combinations. Dark timber is being paired with coloured glass, ceramics, chrome, brass and tactile fabrics.
Hand-me-down furniture that older generations were keen to discard is now desirable again, particularly when it is an original 1970s piece bought second-hand. Vintage prints and ornate mirrors are also being used to give rooms a more individual appearance.
Over the past year, My Bespoke Room has developed 42 living rooms for Gen Z customers, with an average spend of £965. Eighty-eight per cent opted for a full-room design package.
Living rooms were the most popular project, accounting for 48 per cent of requests. Kitchens made up 26 per cent, while 15 per cent sought help with an office or workspace.
Many younger people are using rooms for several purposes, particularly in smaller properties where the same space must accommodate work, relaxation, entertaining and storage while still looking presentable for social media.
Interior inspiration is coming from TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest, as well as interiors creators, restaurants, hotels and second-hand marketplaces.
Although most Gen Z adults in Britain still live with their parents, a recent study cited by the designers suggested that 34 per cent expect to buy their first home in 2026.
My Bespoke Room founder Laura Simpson said: “While Gen Z may believe they’re ripping up the rulebook, many of their favourite trends will look extremely familiar to their grandparents.”
