The '80s Wall Trend Making A Big Comeback In The 2026 (It'll Make Your Home Look Larger)

Were gravity-defying hairstyles the reason behind the 1980s wall-of-mirrors trend? Perhaps we needed that space to make sure each strand was Aqua-Netted into place. Although it's doubtful that these two fads developed depending on each other, those of us who lived through the decade probably remember a home with a room with a wall spangled in mirrored tiles or huge reflective panels. Designers are dusting off this '80s trend for 2026. However, this millennium's take on the mirrored wall is either a bit more restrained and practical, or — on the opposite end of the spectrum — attention-grabbing with geometrics, antiqued finishes, or gallery walls composed entirely of framed mirrors. Still, floor-to-ceiling mirror panels have their place, too

There are definite advantages to this throwback. These accent walls are a stylish way to use mirrors to make a small space look bigger as well as brighter. Placed in the right spot, you'll see double the light from lamps and windows. Plus, the classic '80s mirror wall also seemingly dissolves the surface behind it, making the room appear twice as large. The best thing about this mirror wall revival is the wealth of ways to make it work for your space.

One of the top new iterations of looking glass walls is composing a gallery wall entirely of framed mirrors. This way, while gallery walls are a popular design trend that makes your room look smaller than it is, you'll counteract this with mirrors. A gallery wall of ornate gilded frames lends a slight Versailles feel to a room while fitting with current trends. Also similar to the French royal residence's Hall of Mirrors, placing them directly across from a wall full of windows amplifies a room's space and gives the illusion of yet another wall of windows.

A few ways that don't harken back to the Reagan era are bringing in tweaks to the mirrors themselves. Ones with a smoky effect or faux aging akin to an antique piece are getting noticed, and others with a tint like bronze are changing the mood of the room along with the perceived dimensions and brightness. Use mirrors to highlight the unexpected, too. If your room has unique features like an alcove, a projection in a wall, or a partial wall, mirrorizing them can define these architectural details and help decorate your home like a professional. Hanging art on a mirrored wall might seem bizarre, but placing a few striking pieces on a reflective surface gives it a floating effect that's truly unexpected.