The perfect blend of comfort and mystery. That’s what it feels like to revel in the interior design of a movie or television series set in the 1980s. Especially when the story involves an other-worldly element, such as the extra terrestrial in E.T. or the alternate dimension of Stranger Things. Add characters in the throes of childhood, and there’s a whimsical element that inspires you to sit at an octagonal table crafted from wood, playing your favorite board game. In fact, warm wooden tones were pervasive in these ’80s-set stories, along with an abundance of plaid, an assortment of collectibles from the ’70s and ’80s, and a healthy dose of macrame.
Today we focus on Stranger Things, specifically the inviting sets that play such a significant role in the story. Mike’s basement is the setting of the boys’ Dungeons & Dragons game, a place where Eleven can take shelter, and a location that generally stays off the radar of the grown-ups in the story. It’s safe. It’s covered in wood paneling and dark plaid wallpaper. And there are LOTS of treasures to be uncovered when you really start to take a look at screen shots.
It’s a good thing the basement is a safe haven, because the world outside is perplexing. At best, it’s enchanting. At worst, it’s dangerous. Above we see the boys on bicycles, just before Will Byers (far right) disappears.
But the interior can be a place to explore as well, especially for Eleven, who is familiar with being held captive in a lab, yet unfamiliar with basic creature comforts. Like the recliner in the image above, which quickly becomes a favorite. Ready to take a closer look at the world of Stranger Things? Below you will find an assortment of new and vintage finds that help evoke the feel of Netflix’s new hit series. Mirror80 is smitten with this inviting aesthetic, filled with dark comfort…
SOURCES: 1. Westclox Octagonal Solid Pine Quartz Wall Clock from Alarm Clock Factory; 2. BÖJA pendant lamp from IKEA; 3. Macrame Plant Holder from CB2; 4. Hayden Silk Curtains from Crate & Barrel; 5. Plaid throw pillow from Etsy shop Pillow Throw Decor; 6. Joshua Reclina-Way Recliner from La-Z-Boy; 7. The Thing (1982) movie poster from Amazon.com; 8. Macrame Wall Hanging from Etsy shop Trendy Macrame Studio; 9. Polar Fleece Plaid Throw from Sportsman’s Guide; 10. Large Hexagon Pot from ferm LIVING; 11. Pair of Vintage Brass Swan Figurines from Etsy shop F. Wayne Collection; 12. Dungeons & Dragons dice via Terapeak; 13. Sanders Cube from Crate & Barrel
If you like what you see here, check out our Stranger Things viewing party idea, complete with a build-your-own waffle bar. Happy binge-watching!!! XOXO, Kate
Can you do a “get the look” of Steve Harrington’s bedroom? I was in shock at how much I loved his wallpaper/curtains combo as odd as it was.
Hi Nick! I was very interested in the look of Steve’s room as well. So funny how there were edgy touches (the lamp) mixed in with more traditional elements (like the wallpaper). We had a fun discussion about that room in the ’80s Design group on Facebook (a new group I started a couple of months ago). Please feel free to join us! Thank you for your comment.
I had a set of the spirogyra acrylic swag lamps like the one pictured in the basement photo. Unfortunately they became very brittle as I had stored them in a shed. Big mistake. When I got them out, one had just unraveled from the heat, and the other one imploded as soon as I picked it up. They don’t do well in heat, I found. What’s worse is that I bought them for six bucks at a thrift store a few years back. Found out they’re worth a lot of money now. *Sigh*
Wow–how amazing that you had a set of those lamps! I feel your pain–I can’t tell you how many things I regret storing in our hot garage, only to be damaged. Maybe another fabulous thrift store find is right around the corner for you…
Hindsight is always 20/20 I guess. I still have the 70’s era Milo Baughman slingback chair that I purchased for ten dollars several years ago. That one has always been in my living room and is the most asked about piece when people come over.
Hey, any ideas on where to get a similar wallpaper that’s used for the writing on the walls?
Hi Kate, I know there is a macrame wallhanging on a door in one of the rooms, but I can’t find it – only the plant hangers. Can you let mw know which series and episode had the macrame wallhanging please?