1970s Interior Design Is Back

 

Vogue says the 70s are back, and who are we to argue? Design that may have at one point seemed dated becomes vintage and charming the further we move past its decade of inception. Distance has allowed us to see the value of our grandmother’s home–perhaps not in its entirety, but certainly all of the most stylish parts. We can now appreciate the comfort felt being surrounded by plush, warm-toned furniture, the joy in seeing color and pattern after a decade of gray minimalism, and the invitation of an open concept floor plan.

Natural Materials

It’s time to embrace the laidback effortlessness of rattan once again. If you’re not ready to commit to larger wicker pieces, like furniture, then start small with baskets or a mirror. We’re seeing more wood trending as well–everything from curved coffee tables to retro media consoles. The 70s sometimes get a bad rap for its cheap materials, but if you’ve ever visited a secondhand store then you know that many pieces endure to this day, 50 years later, due to their quality materials and timeless craftsmanship.

Groovy Colors & Patterns

If your immediate thought when someone says, “1970s pattern” is of a busy floral couch, we don’t blame you. But the decade had so much more to offer than the loud, frantic prints we often think of. Geometric tiling (the kitchen or laundry room are great smaller spaces to make bold design choices) or checkered wallpaper can balance a room’s design, rather than disrupt it as one might think. Ditch the pristine white couch and armchairs and opt for less maintenance and more fun with a green or terracotta color.

Comfortable Living

Similar to the move towards more wearable fashion, it seems the tides are turning towards more livable homes. More time indoors over the past couple of years means more time to ruminate over the ways in which a space realistically works for our lifestyle. There’s a draw towards warmth and comfort now more than ever and the 1970s had that down pat with plush rugs, soft lamp-lighting, and earthy color palettes.