Not Wood Paneling Nor Color Palette: This Home Feature Is A '90s Staple

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Love them or hate them, '90s design trends left their mark. Whether you have a home from the '90s or you're craving a throwback, there's one late 20th-century staple that you'll surely recognize. Octagonal windows popped up throughout countless '80s and '90s interiors. These peek-a-boo windows gave homes a geometric touch, creating a unique visual accent. They might not be the first '90s home decor trend that pops into your mind, but they were ever-present in American homes.

Although they had a major comeback in the '90s, octagonal windows have a history of over 700 years. These decorative windows started to appear again in the mid-century, but really hit their peak in the later decades. People have mixed feelings about these retro additions, as is evident from homeowners on social media and forums asking whether they should keep, remove, or upgrade their existing octagonal windows. Whether or not this '90s trend will have a comeback remains to be seen. 

If you already have a '90s octagonal window, there are a few ways to update the look. Rather than getting rid of it, consider taking the opposite approach. Keeping vintage home decor alive is trending in 2026. Current design trends are all about highlighting your home's original architectural features rather than trying to hide them. For example, try adding visual interest with stained glass window film. The Bectosy Window Privacy Film can be cut to the measurements of your window. Iridescent window film is a budget-friendly window treatment that will make your window look more high-end. You can also cover your window with a decorative panel like this All Clear Stained Glass Octagon Beveled Hanging Window Panel. 

For those who have octagonal window envy, you can actually purchase these windows online. If you can't modify the exterior or structure of your home, try adding an octagonal window to a garden shed or barn. This Apple Outdoor Supply Store Shed Window is a highly-rated option. Before you add the octagonal window to your bonus structure, make sure to avoid these mistakes when installing a new window in your shed.