10 Outdated California Furniture Trends Making A Stylish Comeback

California has always been a trendsetter when it comes to home design. What once felt old-fashioned is now fresh again, as vintage furniture styles return with modern twists.

I’m excited to show you how these classic looks are making waves in today’s homes, bringing warmth, character, and a touch of nostalgia to living spaces across the state.

1. Rattan and Wicker Furniture

Remember when your grandparents had those woven chairs on the porch? Well, they’re back and cooler than ever. Rattan and wicker pieces bring natural textures into your home while keeping things light and breezy.

I love how these materials work perfectly with California’s laid-back vibe. They’re eco-friendly, durable, and surprisingly comfortable when paired with soft cushions.

2. Low-Profile Platform Beds

Sleeping closer to the ground might sound strange, but it creates an incredibly calming atmosphere in your bedroom. Platform beds sit low without bulky box springs, giving rooms a sleek, uncluttered appearance.

This style originated in mid-century California homes and now appeals to anyone seeking simplicity. The clean lines make small bedrooms feel more spacious and open.

3. Teak Wood Outdoor Furniture

Teak furniture was everywhere in the 1960s, and now it’s having a major moment again. This golden-brown wood handles California’s sunshine and occasional rain without falling apart.

I find it fascinating how teak develops a beautiful silver-gray patina over time. Many homeowners actually prefer this aged look, making maintenance super easy for busy families.

4. Sunken Living Rooms

Picture stepping down into a cozy conversation area that feels like your own private hangout spot. Sunken living rooms were huge in the 70s and are making waves again in remodeled California homes.

These spaces create natural separation without walls, perfect for entertaining friends. The lowered floor adds architectural interest that standard rooms simply can’t match.

5. Terrazzo Tables and Surfaces

Those speckled surfaces you saw in old buildings are now the hottest thing in home furniture. Terrazzo combines marble chips with cement or resin, creating unique patterns that never repeat.

Each piece tells its own story through swirls of color and texture. I appreciate how durable these surfaces are, resisting stains and scratches while looking absolutely stunning in kitchens and dining areas.

6. Modular Sectional Sofas

Furniture that moves with you sounds like a dream, right? Modular sectionals let you rearrange pieces whenever your space or mood changes.

These versatile sofas dominated the 80s and now fit perfectly with how we actually live today. I can move sections apart for game night or push them together for movie marathons, making them incredibly practical for modern California lifestyles.

7. Velvet Upholstered Furniture

Rich, soft velvet furniture is making waves again in California homes. This fabric was everywhere in the 1970s but fell out of favor for decades. Now designers are bringing it back in bold jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and ruby.

Velvet adds instant luxury and warmth to any room. It catches light beautifully and feels amazing to touch. Plus, modern velvet is more durable and stain-resistant than older versions.

Try adding a velvet accent chair or sofa to your living room. The texture creates visual interest without overwhelming your space. Pair it with simple decor to let the fabric shine and become the star of your room.

8. Macrame Wall Hangings

Knotted rope art is swinging back into California bedrooms and living spaces. Macrame was a hippie staple in the 1960s and 70s but disappeared for years. Today’s versions feature cleaner lines and modern geometric patterns that feel fresh.

These handmade pieces add texture and warmth to plain walls. They work perfectly with California’s relaxed, nature-inspired decorating style. Many local artists create custom pieces using sustainable materials.

Hang one above your bed or couch for instant bohemian charm. Choose neutral colors like cream or tan for versatility. The best part? Macrame softens hard surfaces and makes rooms feel cozier without taking up floor space.

9. Cane and Rattan Accent Pieces

Woven natural materials are experiencing a major revival in California furniture design. Cane detailing on headboards, cabinet doors, and chairs brings organic texture indoors. This trend peaked in the 1970s before synthetic materials took over.

The airy, see-through quality of cane makes furniture feel lighter and less bulky. It pairs beautifully with California’s indoor-outdoor living philosophy. Modern pieces blend traditional weaving techniques with sleek contemporary frames.

Consider a cane headboard or bar cabinet for your home. The natural color works with any palette and adds instant character. Best of all, these pieces age gracefully and develop a lovely patina over time that tells a story.

10. Geometric Patterned Rugs

Bold patterns underfoot are stepping back into California style. Geometric rugs with triangles, diamonds, and zigzags defined 1960s and 80s interiors. After years of plain neutrals, homeowners are rediscovering the energy these designs bring.

A patterned rug anchors your furniture and adds personality without permanent commitment. The repeating shapes create movement and make spaces feel more dynamic. Modern versions use updated color combinations that feel current rather than dated.

Place one in your living room or bedroom to wake up the space. Mix patterns carefully by varying the scale of designs. These rugs hide stains better than solid colors and work especially well in high-traffic areas where you need both style and practicality.