If you’ve noticed a sudden surge of bold patterns, warm tones, and groovy vibes, it’s not just your imagination — 1970s style is making a comeback! This iconic era is influencing everything from fashion to home decor, adding a sense of warmth, personality, and playfulness to modern interiors. But before you go digging through thrift shops or raiding your parents’ attic on the hunt for the perfect pieces, explore what defines 70s aesthetic, how it differs from other decades, and how you can seamlessly incorporate these retro elements into your home.
What Is the Style of the 70s?
The 1970s were a time of self-expression, eclecticism, and bold experimentation in design. Unlike the sleek, futuristic lines of the 60s, 1970s interior design embraced earthiness, comfort, and eclectic charm. Here are some key features that define the decade:
1. Warm Color Palettes
Think burnt orange, mustard yellow, avocado green, and rich browns. These colors dominated walls, furniture, and even appliances, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
2. Bold Patterns
The 70s embraced elements from global cultures, particularly from countries like India, Morocco, and Mexico. This led to the popularity of eclectic decor, tapestries, and handmade crafts. Psychedelic florals, geometric prints, and large-scale patterns were a hallmark of the era. Wallpaper and fabrics often featured these designs, adding visual interest to any space.
3. Natural Materials
The 70s were marked by a newfound appreciation for nature, thanks to the growing environmental movement. Interiors reflected this shift with natural materials, earth tones, and houseplants galore. The 70s embraced the use of natural materials like wood and stone. The focus was on creating organic, nature-inspired interiors that felt grounded and comforting.
4. Plush Fabrics
Velvet, corduroy, and shag were popular choices for upholstery and rugs, adding texture and a sense of luxury to the home.
5. Maximalism and Layering
The shift away from the minimalist lines of the 60s gave way to a love of eclectic decor and layering. Interiors were filled with rich textures, patterns, and curated collections. The 70s were not shy about mixing those colors, patterns, and textures. The style leaned into a “more is more” philosophy, favoring layered decor that felt personalized and lived-in.
Common Misconceptions: 60s vs. 70s Style
While the 60s and 70s are often lumped together, they have distinct differences in style.
1960s Decor
The 60s focused on sleek, futuristic design with lots of bright colors, plastic furniture, and space-age influences. Think mod patterns, pop art, and vibrant, saturated hues.
1970s Decor
In contrast, the 70s shifted toward a more earthy, eclectic aesthetic. While still embracing bold colors, the tones were warmer and more muted. The focus moved from sleek minimalism to comfort, coziness, and self-expression.
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How to Bring 70s Decor into Your Modern Home
Bringing the retro charm of the 70s into your modern home can be fun and stylish if done thoughtfully. Here are some practical ways to incorporate these elements into different rooms:
70s Living Room: Cozy Up with Textures and Patterns
- Mix and Match Fabrics: Use velvet throw pillows, corduroy upholstery, or a shag rug to add warmth and texture to your living room.
- Bold Wallpaper: Consider an accent wall with bold, geometric wallpaper. If that feels like too much, opt for patterned curtains or throw blankets.
Kitchen: Embrace Earthy Tones and Vintage Vibes
- Retro Color Palette: Incorporate burnt orange, mustard yellow, or avocado green through backsplash tiles, small appliances, or bar stools.
- Vintage-Inspired Lighting: Swap out your modern fixtures for retro pendants with amber glass shades or globe lights. This goes for lamps, too – warm, soft lighting can help set the mood for the room.
Bedroom: Relax with Warmth and Comfort
- Plush Fabrics: Use velvet or corduroy bedding in warm, rich colors. Layer with patterned throw blankets and pillows.
- Houseplants Galore: Bring the outdoors in with hanging plants, large leafy greens, or even a retro macramé plant hanger.
- Eclectic Nightstands: Mix vintage and modern pieces for a bedroom that feels collected over time.
Mixing 70s Elements with Other Styles
If your home already has a specific style, you can still incorporate 70s elements without overwhelming your existing decor!
Mid-Century Modern
70s modern interior design overlaps well with midcentury modern when it comes to a love for warm wood tones and natural materials. Add 70s flair with bold patterns, cozy textures, and a few retro accessories.
Scandinavian
Balance the clean lines of Scandinavian design with 70s-inspired colors and fabrics. A mustard yellow armchair or a shag rug can add warmth without disrupting the minimalist aesthetic.
Boho
Boho style already shares many similarities with 70s decor, like macramé, plants, and rich textures. Lean into the retro side with even more color and pattern.
CORT Furniture Outlet Has Your Style
Adding 70s-inspired touches to your home doesn’t have to be complicated—or expensive. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or redefining your entire space, CORT Furniture Outlet is here to help.
With a constantly rotating selection of high-quality furniture and decor, CORT makes it easy to find unique, affordable pieces to suit your style. Plus, all items are professionally cleaned and inspected, so you can trust you’re getting the best value. At prices up to 70% off new retail prices, you can confidently mix, match, and experiment without breaking your budget.
Looking for inspiration? Visit your local CORT Furniture Outlet or browse online to start building a space that feels uniquely you.
