Bring Back the 70's: Tips for Re-creating the Ultimate Retro Home Aesthetic

The 1970s were a vibrant decade for home decor, marked by bold colors, eclectic patterns, and a mix of natural and synthetic materials. Whether you're looking to revamp your entire home or add a few nostalgic touches, here's how to re-create the ultimate 70's house interior.

1. Embrace Bold Colors

Color Palette:

• Earthy tones like avocado green, mustard yellow, and burnt orange were staples of the 70s.
• Bright accent colors like teal, hot pink, and royal blue added pops of vibrancy.

Tips:

• Walls: Consider painting an accent wall in a bold color like mustard yellow or avocado green. Alternatively, use colorful wallpaper with a geometric or floral pattern.
• Furniture: Upholster furniture in vibrant hues or add colorful throw pillows and blankets.
• Accessories: Incorporate colorful ceramics, glassware, and other decorative items.

2. Opt for Eclectic Patterns

Popular Patterns:

• Geometric shapes, florals, and psychedelic designs were all the rage in the 70s.
• Mixing and matching patterns was common, so don’t be afraid to combine different designs.

Tips:

• Wallpaper: Use bold, patterned wallpaper to create a statement wall or even an entire room.
• Textiles: Choose patterned rugs, curtains, and upholstery. Mix floral prints with geometric designs for an authentic 70s look.
• Artwork: Hang vintage prints and posters featuring bold graphics and vibrant colors.

3. Incorporate Natural Materials

Materials:

• Wood, rattan, and wicker were extensively used in the 70s, adding warmth and texture to interiors.
• Macramé and other handcrafted items were also popular.

Tips:

• Furniture: Look for vintage wooden furniture or pieces with a retro design. Rattan chairs and wicker baskets can add a bohemian touch.
• Decor: Use macramé wall hangings, plant holders, and woven textiles to introduce texture.
• Plants: Houseplants were a significant part of 70s decor. Place large potted plants, hanging planters, and macramé plant holders around your home.

4. Use Synthetic Materials and Textures

Materials:

• Vinyl, plastic, and laminate were widely used, reflecting the era's fascination with new materials.
• Shag carpeting was a popular choice for flooring, providing a plush and comfortable surface.

Tips:

• Furniture: Look for vintage or reproduction furniture made from molded plastic or featuring vinyl upholstery.
• Flooring: Consider adding shag rugs in various colors and sizes. If you're feeling bold, install wall-to-wall shag carpeting in a living room or bedroom.
• Decor: Use acrylic or plastic decor items, such as table lamps, vases, and clocks.

5. Add Retro Lighting

Lighting Styles:

• Statement lighting fixtures were a hallmark of 70s decor, with designs ranging from funky to futuristic.
• Lava lamps and globe lights were iconic lighting choices of the decade.

Tips:

• Chandeliers: Look for vintage chandeliers with a retro design, such as those with smoked glass or geometric shapes.
• Lava Lamps: Place lava lamps on side tables or shelves to add a nostalgic touch.
• Pendant Lights: Use globe pendant lights or other statement lighting fixtures to illuminate your space with a 70s vibe.

6. Choose Vintage and Reproduction Furniture

Furniture Styles:

• Mid-century modern furniture was still popular in the 70s, but it evolved to include more eclectic and bold designs.
• Sectional sofas, modular seating, and low-slung lounge chairs were all trendy.

Tips:

• Living Room: Opt for a sectional sofa in a bold color or with a retro pattern. Add a low-slung coffee table and some bean bag chairs for extra seating.
• Dining Room: Look for a round or oval dining table with a pedestal base. Pair it with molded plastic or cantilever chairs.
• Bedroom: Choose a platform bed with a geometric headboard. Add vintage bedside tables and a bold-patterned bedspread.

Conclusion

Re-creating the ultimate 70's house interior is all about embracing bold colors, eclectic patterns, and a mix of natural and synthetic materials. By incorporating these elements into your home, you can capture the essence of this vibrant decade and create a space that's both nostalgic and stylish. Whether you're a fan of the era or just looking for a fun and funky design, these tips will help you achieve an authentic 70's look. Happy decorating!