The 1960s were a golden era for home design, blending bold aesthetics with practical charm. From colorful tile countertops to built-in seating nooks, homes were designed with personality and functionality in mind. Yet, many of these beloved features have faded into history, replaced by modern minimalism and mass-produced styles. Imagine the warmth of conversation pits, the elegance of pocket doors, or the convenience of built-in record players making a comeback in today’s homes. These vintage touches not only add character but also serve as reminders of a time when homes were built to be truly lived in. Let’s take a look at 12 discontinued home features from the ’60s that deserve a revival—because sometimes, the past got it just right.
1. Conversation Pits
Conversation pits were the heart of many 1960s homes, designed to bring people together in a way that felt both intimate and stylish. These sunken seating areas, often lined with plush cushions and positioned around a central coffee table or fireplace, encouraged a relaxed, communal vibe that was perfect for lively discussions or cozy gatherings. Unlike today’s rigid living room setups, conversation pits blurred the lines between furniture and architecture, making the seating itself an integral part of the home’s design. While they faded from popularity in favor of open floor plans and modular furniture, their comeback could redefine social spaces, offering a warm, immersive alternative to traditional living rooms.
2. Pink and Colored Bathrooms
Back in the 1960s, pink and colored bathrooms were a symbol of personality and charm, transforming ordinary washrooms into vibrant, stylish retreats. From soft pastel blues to bold avocado greens, these colorful spaces felt playful yet sophisticated, often complemented by matching sinks, bathtubs, and tilework. The reigning queen of this trend was Mamie Eisenhower’s famous love for pink, which inspired an entire generation of homeowners to embrace the shade. Over time, these hues were replaced by neutral tones, but as vintage aesthetics make a resurgence, so does the appeal of colorful bathrooms. A modern revival could blend retro flair with contemporary design, bringing back the joy and character that today’s all-white bathrooms often lack.
3. Stereo Players
In the 1960s, stereo players weren’t just a way to listen to music, they were a statement piece in the home. Built into sleek wooden consoles or stylish cabinetry, these hi-fi systems blended seamlessly with mid-century décor, making music an integral part of everyday life. Whether spinning the latest Beatles record or filling the room with smooth jazz, stereo players brought warmth and ambiance to living spaces. Unlike today’s digital streaming, the experience of placing a vinyl on the turntable and hearing the rich analog sound was immersive and intentional. With vinyl making a massive comeback, a modern reimagining of built-in stereo consoles could bring back the magic of music as a shared home experience.
4. Wood Paneling
In the 1960s, wood paneling was a hallmark of cozy, well-designed interiors, adding warmth, texture, and a touch of sophistication to living spaces. Unlike the flimsy, faux-wood versions that emerged in later decades, true mid-century paneling was crafted from rich, high-quality materials like walnut, oak, and mahogany. It created an inviting atmosphere, whether covering entire walls or serving as an accent feature. Over time, it was replaced by plain drywall and painted finishes, but today’s homeowners are rediscovering the charm of real wood paneling.
5. Sunken Bathtubs
Sunken bathtubs were the epitome of luxury in 1960s homes, transforming bathrooms into spa-like retreats. Unlike traditional tubs, these were built flush with the floor, creating a seamless, modern look that felt both sophisticated and indulgent. Often surrounded by tile, stone, or even lush greenery, they provided a deep, relaxing soak while adding a sense of elegance to the space. Over time, they faded from popularity due to changing design trends and the rise of prefabricated tubs, but their comeback could redefine modern bathrooms. With contemporary materials and updated safety features, sunken bathtubs could once again offer homeowners a stylish and serene bathing experience that feels like a private getaway.
6. Retro Diner Kitchens
Retro diner kitchens from the 1960s were all about bold colors, fun patterns, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Inspired by classic American diners, these kitchens featured checkerboard floors, chrome accents, booth-style seating, and bright pops of red, turquoise, or yellow. Appliances in pastel shades, Formica countertops, and neon signs added to the playful yet functional design. With a growing appreciation for vintage aesthetics, bringing back these cheerful, nostalgia-filled kitchens could add warmth, charm, and a touch of 1960s to contemporary homes.
7. Interior Stone Walls
Interior stone walls were a striking feature in many 1960s homes, adding a natural, textured element that brought warmth and character to a space. Whether made of river rock, slate, or stacked stone, these walls were often used in living rooms, entryways, or around fireplaces to create a rustic yet sophisticated look. Unlike today’s smooth, uniform drywall, stone walls introduced depth and contrast, making a bold architectural statement. Though they fell out of favor in later decades, their comeback could bring a refreshing balance between organic materials and modern design.
8. Compact Built-in Bars
Compact built-in bars were a staple of 1960s homes, offering a stylish and convenient space for entertaining. Tucked into living rooms, dens, or even kitchens, these bars often featured mirrored backsplashes, glass shelving, and sleek cabinetry designed to store liquor, glassware, and cocktail essentials. Unlike bulky standalone bar carts, built-in bars blended seamlessly with the home’s design, making happy hour feel effortlessly chic. As at-home entertaining gains popularity again, these retro bars are primed for a comeback. With modern touches like LED lighting, hidden storage, and contemporary finishes, a built-in bar could add both function and mid-century charm to today’s homes.
9. Patterned Linoleum Floors
Patterned linoleum floors were a vibrant and practical staple in 1960s homes, bringing bold designs and playful colors into kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. From checkerboard patterns to atomic-era swirls and floral motifs, linoleum was more than just a flooring choice—it was a statement. Homeowners loved it for its durability, easy maintenance, and affordability, but over time, it was overshadowed by vinyl and tile. Now, as vintage aesthetics make a comeback and eco-friendly materials gain popularity, modern linoleum—made from natural materials like linseed oil and cork—offers a stylish and sustainable way to revive this retro trend.
10. Fold-Down Ironing Boards
Fold-down ironing boards were a clever space-saving feature in 1960s homes, built right into walls, closets, or kitchen cabinets for easy access. Unlike bulky standalone boards that take up valuable space, these convenient designs could be tucked away when not in use, keeping homes neat and organized. Many came with built-in storage for irons and laundry essentials, making household chores more efficient. As compact living and multifunctional spaces gain popularity, fold-down ironing boards deserve a comeback. With modern upgrades like sleek finishes, heat-resistant surfaces, and even hidden charging stations for steam irons, this retro feature could once again become a must-have for practical, stylish homes.
11. Built-in Planters
Built-in planters were a signature feature of 1960s homes, seamlessly integrating greenery into interior design. Often incorporated into room dividers, entryways, or even kitchen countertops, these planters brought nature indoors, enhancing both aesthetics and air quality. Whether filled with cascading pothos, sculptural snake plants, or vibrant ferns, they added a fresh, organic element to mid-century modern spaces. Over time, they were phased out in favor of simpler décor, but as biophilic design gains popularity, built-in planters deserve a revival.
12. Lattice Room Dividers
Lattice room dividers were a stylish and functional design element in 1960s homes, offering a way to separate spaces without completely closing them off. Made from wood, metal, or even acrylic, these airy partitions featured geometric or organic patterns that added visual interest while maintaining an open, breathable feel. They were often used in living rooms, dining areas, and entryways to create definition without sacrificing natural light or flow. As open-concept living remains popular, lattice dividers are due for a comeback—providing a chic way to add structure, privacy, and mid-century charm to modern interiors.