In the world of fashion, the 70s style made a comeback in 2021 and has since made its way into interior design. The charm of this era's style is undeniable and holds plenty of appeal for modern living. However, while some aspects of 70s design may not be favorable today (we're looking at you, Formica tabletops and linoleum floors), there are still many elements that are worth embracing.
If you're ready to hop on the 70s design train with a modern twist, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll share our favorite interior design trends from the 1970s so you can bring the best of retro style into your home.
Getting to know 70s interior design
Interior design in the 1970s featured exciting elements that transformed how people lived in their homes. Sunken living rooms piled with pillows provided the ultimate lounge experience, while room dividers created open, flowing floor plans. Open plan homes with high ceilings, large windows, and floating staircases created a sense of ample, unobstructed living space. These groovy areas set the stage for striking geometric designs, bold patterns, vivid colors, and layers of texture.
The 70s interior design aesthetic emerged as the mid-century modern era came to an end. While the mid-century look has never gone out of style, you'll notice that many 70s homes incorporate mid-century elements. Both mid-century and Scandinavian styles blend beautifully with 70s decor, allowing for minimalist-inspired style and cozy design ideas. Adding a touch of today's colors, textures, and themes can seamlessly integrate the 70s into your modern space.
7 ways to bring chic 70s interior design into your home
If you immediately think of plastic-covered furniture, avocado-green kitchens, and wall-to-wall shag carpet when 70s interior design comes up, it's time to reconsider. While the 70s did have its fair share of fashion crimes, there were also fantastic elements that cannot be ignored. Here are seven ways to incorporate stylish design trends from that decade into your home:
1. Natural materials
2. Warm and vibrant colors
The 70s were known for their excellent color schemes, featuring warm and vibrant tones throughout the home. While these palettes may be a bit overwhelming for today's homes, you can update the approach by incorporating muted tones and lively colors. Start with a base of light, muted earth tones and add a few vibrant accent colors to create a five-color palette that captures the essence of the 70s.
3. Fun prints
Eye-catching prints and patterns were hallmarks of 70s interior design. Incorporate bold and playful prints into your space without going overboard. Consider adding brightly-patterned floor pillows to your living room or opt for an accent wall in a bold wallpaper print.
4. Textured fabrics
Add a touch of the 70s by introducing textured fabrics into your home. Corduroy upholstery, chunky-weave throw blankets, and boucle furniture can create a retro feel. Use throw pillows, sofas, accent chairs, throw blankets, and window treatments to incorporate texture into your space. For a low-to-the-ground hangout reminiscent of 70s-style sunken living rooms, surround a retro-style coffee table with corduroy floor pillows.
5. Retro lighting fixtures
Incorporating a few retro lighting fixtures is an easy way to pay homage to the 70s without overwhelming your home. Consider glass pendant lights in the kitchen or dining area, or opt for domed mushroom lamp shades in the living room. Rattan, cane, and wicker lampshades add a boho touch and celebrate natural materials.
6. Hanging chairs
Hanging chairs were all the rage in the 70s, encouraging people to embrace their inner creativity and childlike sense of fun. Add a groovy touch to your home with a hanging macrame chair in the living room or a rattan egg chair in the bedroom. If hanging chairs are too much, opt for a swivel chair that captures the laid-back vibe while still embracing your inner child.
7. Maximalist accessories
Maximalist accessories complement 70s-inspired design. Add visual interest to your space with a folding screen in a bold print, bright ceramics, a geometric side table, chunky vases, or a maximalism print.
Get funky with 70s interior design
Ready to bring some throwback home decor into your life? Incorporate these 70s interior design ideas one at a time, opting for a slow and planned approach to capture the retro look of your dreams without becoming kitschy. To kick-start your home makeover, check out what Coaster Furniture has to offer. With a wide range of beautiful pieces and a convenient store locator, Coaster Furniture is here to help bring your vision to life.
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