The 1970s saw one of the greatest environmental movements in history. People were becoming more conscious of their impact on the planet, which was reflected in the design choices they made for their homes.
The bright and bold trends of the 1960s were replaced with a desire to create more environmentally friendly spaces using muted earth-tone color pallets and organic lines and forms.
This was the Golden Age of Vinyl, so you know that people were creating some pretty groovy spaces to enjoy their records in! Let's take a look at a few standout features of 1970s interior design.
1970s Interior Design Trends
Monochromatic Spaces
One of the most popular 1970s design trends was the monochromatic spaces. This meant all the furniture, fabrics, and accessories in a room would be coordinated to match. You might see an entire kitchen done in different shades of harvest gold or a living room with drapes, carpeting, and furniture upholstered in various shades of burnt orange.
Organic Materials and Forms
This newfound love for the environment led to the use of more organic materials and forms in interior design. Wicker furniture, macrame decor, embroidered wall hangings, afghan blankets, and terracotta tiles were all popular choices for 1970s homes.
Furniture and designs took on a much more organic shape, focusing on clean lines and simple forms to complement the more casual dens and living rooms of this era.
Avocado Green Appliances
One of the most iconic trends that emerged from the 1970s was the avocado green appliance. It seems like every home had a fridge, stove, or dishwasher in this distinct shade of green. While it might not be everyone's cup of tea in today's stainless steel world, there's no denying that it made quite a statement in its day!
Bringing the Outdoors In
The 1970s saw the rise of hanging houseplants and indoor gardens. This was a fun way to introduce more natural elements into the home. People also loved large windows and skylights to bring the outside in, which helped to create a more calming and serene environment.
How to Incorporate 1970s Interior Design Trends Into Your Home
If you're looking to add a 1970s vibe to your home, there are plenty of ways to do it. Pulling some samples and classic pairings from the classic earth-tone color palette is a great place to start. Golds, oranges, and browns are a signature of 1970s design.
Adding some plants to your decor is also a great way to bring in some of the natural elements of this era, so grab yourself some hanging macrame planters and fill them with your favorite greenery. If you're feeling a little adventurous, add an embroidered wall hanging or an afghan blanket to your living room too!
You can also find some great 1970s-inspired furniture at vintage stores or online retailers. Wicker chairs, rattan coffee tables, and shag rugs are all perfect ways to get that retro feel in your home.
I really hope you enjoyed this little trip down interior design memory lane and that you're feeling totally inspired by the 1970s! Next, we'll be diving into the feminine florals, pastels, and frilly accents of the 1980s. Stay tuned!
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