21 Best 70s Decor Ideas: A Retro Revival for Your Home
The 1970s were a time of change, creativity, and daring design choices. The decade’s decor was a fusion of bold patterns, earthy tones, and eclectic combinations.
Today, the 70s are making a comeback in the world of home design, and if you’re considering bringing this retro vibe into your space, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re planning a full-on throwback or just adding subtle elements, this article will walk you through 21 of the best 70s decor ideas to infuse your home with the spirit of the era.
Ready to embrace shag rugs, bold prints, and plenty of personality? Let’s dive in.
1. Shag Rugs: A Luxurious Textural Experience
In the 70s, no living room was complete without a shag rug. These plush, thick rugs added warmth and texture to any room. If you want to bring a touch of the 70s into your home, look for shag rugs in bold colors, or opt for something more neutral with a thick pile that invites you to sink your toes into it.
| Shag Rug Color | Room Type | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Orange | Living Room | Bold and vibrant |
| Avocado Green | Bedroom | Earthy, calming |
| Brown and Cream | Office or Study | Retro and cozy |
Why it Works
Shag rugs are perfect for adding texture to any room, and they give a nostalgic feel that will instantly transport you back to the groovy 70s. Whether you want a rug that commands attention or one that quietly complements other decor, a shag rug is a quintessential 70s touch.
2. Bold Patterns: A Visual Feast
In the 70s, patterns were loud and proud. Think geometric shapes, floral prints, and paisleys that covered everything from wallpaper to upholstery. If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate bold patterns into your space, either through a statement wall, cushions, or curtains.
Patterns to Look For:
- Geometric Shapes: Squares, circles, and triangles in a mix of earthy tones like mustard, rust, and brown.
- Floral Prints: Large, exaggerated flowers in warm hues.
- Paisley: Swirling, intricate designs in bright colors.
How to Style It
Pair bold patterns with solid-colored furniture to avoid overwhelming the room. For instance, a geometric-patterned rug will look great under a neutral-colored sofa, or a floral print chair can add character to a simple, muted room.
3. Wood Paneling: Bringing the Outdoors In
Wood paneling was one of the most iconic elements of 70s decor. It brought the outdoors inside and added a natural, cozy element to any room. Today, you can embrace this retro style by incorporating wood panels on feature walls or even opting for modern faux wood panels that offer the same vibe but with a fresh twist.
| Wood Panel Type | Ideal Room | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Walnut | Living Room | Classic, elegant |
| Light Oak | Dining Room | Bright and airy |
| Reclaimed Wood | Kitchen | Rustic, eco-friendly |
Why it Works
Wood paneling has a nostalgic charm that gives spaces an earthy, grounded feel. It pairs well with both retro and modern furniture, allowing you to create a balanced look that feels fresh yet familiar.
4. Earth Tones: Warmth Without the Heat
The 70s were all about earthy hues. Think avocado green, mustard yellow, burnt orange, and warm browns. These colors were used extensively in everything from furniture to wall paint to accessories. If you want to evoke the warmth and comfort of the 70s, bring in these tones through accent walls, throw pillows, and fabrics.
Color Palette to Use:
- Burnt Orange: A bold, energetic shade that was everywhere.
- Avocado Green: A soothing, earthy color perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Mustard Yellow: A rich, golden hue for furniture or accessories.
- Chocolate Brown: A deep, grounding color for walls or leather furniture.
How to Style It
Keep things balanced by pairing earth tones with neutral shades like beige or cream. Too much of one color can overwhelm the room, so use them in moderation, whether in accents, wall art, or upholstery.
5. Retro Lighting: Set the Mood with Unique Fixtures
Lighting in the 70s wasn’t just about function; it was about creating a vibe. Pendant lights, lava lamps, and disco balls were all the rage. To give your space a retro feel, look for quirky light fixtures that double as art pieces.
Lighting Fixtures to Look For:
- Pendant Lights: Round, globe-style lights in bright colors or metallic finishes.
- Lava Lamps: A fun and nostalgic way to light up your space.
- Chandeliers: Look for ones with glass or brass accents for that mid-century flair.
Why It Works
Lighting is one of the easiest ways to set the mood in a room. A vintage pendant light or a funky lava lamp can instantly change the ambiance and serve as a conversation starter.
6. Vinyl Records: Decor With a Soundtrack
What better way to embrace the 70s than with vinyl records? Whether you’re a music lover or simply appreciate the aesthetics, vinyl records can be both decorative and functional. You can hang albums on your walls or create a collection displayed in vintage-style shelving.
| Album Type | Room Type | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Rock Albums | Living Room | Bold and energetic |
| Funk and Disco Albums | Bedroom or Lounge | Fun and upbeat |
| Jazz Albums | Study or Office | Classy and sophisticated |
How to Style It
For a truly retro feel, group your vinyl records in frames or on display shelves. You can even stack them on tables as an art piece.
7. Bohemian Flair: Layered and Laid-Back
The 70s bohemian style was all about layered textures, flowing fabrics, and a relaxed vibe. If you want to add a boho touch to your space, focus on combining comfortable, eclectic elements like throw blankets, floor cushions, and woven baskets.
Bohemian Elements:
- Macramé Wall Hangings: Add texture and a sense of coziness.
- Leather Sofas: Rich and durable, they exude both comfort and style.
- Rattan Furniture: Bring a natural, vintage touch to the room.
Styling Tip
Layering is key to the bohemian aesthetic. Mix and match different textures, such as a velvet throw on a leather sofa, or pair wicker chairs with plush cushions.
8. Formica Furniture: A Nod to Classic Kitchen Style
Formica countertops and laminate furniture were staples of 70s kitchens and dining areas. This material was used for everything from tables to countertops and is making a resurgence today in a retro, vintage context.
| Formica Style | Room Type | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Bold Stripes | Kitchen | Fun, playful |
| Solid Pastels | Dining Room | Bright and fresh |
| Wood-Look Laminate | Living Room | Cozy, rustic charm |
Why It Works
Formica offers durability and ease of maintenance while still evoking that retro charm. Choose colors or designs that remind you of 70s kitchens, but mix them with modern appliances for a balanced look.
9. Funky Furniture: Bold and Beautiful
In the 70s, furniture was anything but ordinary. Bold colors, sleek lines, and unexpected shapes ruled the day. Look for statement pieces like bean bag chairs, low-slung sofas, and psychedelic-patterned chairs that scream 70s.
Funky Furniture Ideas:
- Bean Bag Chairs: Fun and casual, perfect for lounging.
- Modular Sofas: Flexible and stylish, these sofas can be rearranged to suit any space.
- Retro Bar Carts: Add a touch of 70s glamour to your living area with a metallic or wooden bar cart.
Styling Tip
Keep the furniture the focal point and pair with minimalist decor to avoid a cluttered space. Let those funky chairs and vibrant sofas take center stage.
10. Mirrored Furniture: Reflecting the Glamour of the Era
Mirrored furniture, especially in silver and gold, was a glamorous trend in the 70s. This style reflects light beautifully and adds a touch of luxury to any room. Look for mirrored coffee tables, side tables, or even mirrored cabinets to bring in that glitzy retro vibe.
How to Style It
Pair mirrored furniture with darker tones like navy, black, or deep green to create contrast. This will make the reflective surfaces stand out even more.
11. Macramé Art and Hanging Planters
Nothing says 70s like macramé. Wall hangings, planters, and even room dividers made from knotted threads were all the rage. Incorporating macramé into your space is a great way to add texture and a vintage flair.
| Macramé Item | Room Type | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Wall Hangings | Living Room or Hallway | Cozy, inviting |
| Hanging Planters | Bedroom or Kitchen | Fresh, earthy |
| Macramé Room Dividers | Studio or Loft | Private, retro vibe |
Styling Tip
Use hanging planters to bring in some greenery while keeping the retro feel intact. A macramé plant hanger holding a lush fern can add life and color to any room.
12. Retro Bar Area: Cheers to 70s Style
The 70s were known for cocktail parties, and the home bar was often the centerpiece of social gatherings. Create your own retro bar area with vintage glassware, a stylish liquor cabinet, and a collection of funky bar stools. Choose bold colors like deep red, gold, and black to give it that classic 70s glam.
| Bar Element | Style | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Vintage Glassware | Crystal or Colored | Elegant and classic |
| Retro Bar Stools | Vinyl or Leather | Fun and comfortable |
| Metallic Bar Cart | Gold or Silver | Glamorous, eye-catching |
Why It Works
The retro bar area serves as a gathering spot, and adding 70s elements like colorful glassware or funky stools brings the era’s playful spirit into your home.
13. Floral Upholstery: Seating with Style
Floral patterns weren’t just for walls—they were everywhere in the 70s, from curtains to upholstery. To add a 70s touch to your home, look for vintage floral chairs, couches, or throw pillows.
| Upholstery Type | Room Type | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Bold Floral Patterns | Living Room or Bedroom | Eclectic and lively |
| Muted Floral Prints | Dining Room or Entryway | Soft and welcoming |
| Vintage Floral Cushions | Any Room | Cozy and charming |
Styling Tip
Pair floral prints with solid-colored furniture to keep things balanced. A floral-patterned chair can add interest without overwhelming the space.
14. Vinyl and Plastic Furniture: Shiny and New
The 70s loved shiny, easy-to-clean materials like plastic and vinyl. From transparent chairs to colorful plastic tables, these materials gave furniture a futuristic look that was perfect for the era.
| Material | Room Type | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Lucite or Acrylic | Living Room | Sleek, modern |
| Vinyl Chairs | Dining or Office | Playful, contemporary |
| Plastic Tables | Patio or Kitchen | Casual and fun |
Why It Works
These materials give your space a playful, almost space-age vibe. Incorporate them in small doses, like a transparent side table or a colorful vinyl chair, to keep things light and modern.
15. Floral Wallpaper: A Statement Wall
Wallpaper in the 70s was often bold and full of life. One of the most popular choices was floral patterns. To create a 70s-inspired feature wall, choose a wallpaper with vibrant flowers in shades of orange, yellow, or green.
How to Style It
Make the wallpaper the centerpiece of the room by keeping the rest of the decor simple. For instance, pair floral wallpaper with neutral furniture and minimal accessories.
16. Sculptural Art Pieces: Make It Pop
Art in the 70s wasn’t just something to hang on the wall; it was an integral part of the room’s design. Sculptural art pieces in metallic finishes or abstract shapes added texture and intrigue.
| Sculptural Art Type | Room Type | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Abstract Metal Sculptures | Living Room | Modern, artistic |
| Ceramic Sculptures | Dining or Office | Textural and unique |
| Retro Wall Art | Hallway or Entryway | Bold and attention-grabbing |
Why It Works
Sculptural art adds dimension and personality to your space. These bold pieces can be conversation starters and truly transform a room.
17. Checkerboard Floors: A Bold Statement
The checkerboard floor pattern was a striking feature in 70s kitchens and bathrooms. If you’re up for it, consider incorporating this bold floor design into your space.
Where to Use It
- Kitchens and Bathrooms: Classic, timeless choice for these high-traffic areas.
- Entryways or Hallways: Make an entrance with this eye-catching pattern.
Why It Works
Checkerboard floors bring a sense of fun and energy to any room. Pair them with neutral walls and simple furniture to let the floor design shine.
18. Macrame Plant Hangers: Bringing Greenery Indoors
Another hallmark of 70s decor was the love of plants and plant hangers. Whether you’re decorating a bohemian nook or a retro kitchen, macrame plant hangers bring in greenery while adding texture and dimension.
19. Orange Walls: A Pop of Retro Color
Orange was one of the most iconic colors of the 70s, evoking warmth and energy. A bright orange wall can be a bold design choice that instantly captures the essence of the era. Try it in your living room, kitchen, or even bedroom.
Styling Tip
Balance the orange with neutral tones like beige or white to keep the room from feeling too overpowering.
20. Velvet Furniture: Soft and Luxurious
Velvet was a material of choice in the 70s, used for everything from couches to cushions. Incorporating velvet furniture into your home adds a touch of luxury and elegance, while maintaining that retro flair.
21. Brass Accents: A Touch of Glamour
Brass was another metal that defined the 70s, adding a sense of luxury to everything from lighting fixtures to furniture legs. Bring a touch of retro glamour into your home with brass accents.
Conclusion
The 1970s were a time of bold choices, eclectic combinations, and rich textures. Incorporating these 21 decor ideas into your home is a great way to bring a bit of that retro charm into your life.
From shag rugs to macramé hangings, there are endless ways to infuse the spirit of the 70s into your modern home. So, which retro element will you add to your space first?
