Step back in time and embrace the groovy vibes of the 70s with a living room that’s as stylish as it is comfortable. The 70s was a decade of bold experimentation, and its influence is making a major comeback in interior design. From rich textures and earthy tones to geometric shapes and retro accents, there’s a wealth of inspiration to draw from. Whether you’re going for a full-blown retro aesthetic or simply want to incorporate a few 70s-inspired touches, these design ideas will help you create a living room that’s both nostalgic and contemporary.
Velvet and Fringe
Embrace the plush comfort and luxurious feel of velvet, a quintessential 70s fabric. Choose a deep emerald green or a rich burgundy for your sofa or armchairs. Add a touch of bohemian chic with fringed throws and cushions. Pair these with brass or gold accents for a sophisticated and timeless look. This combination is particularly popular in the US, where 70s-inspired interiors are making a major resurgence. In Europe, the focus is on a more understated approach, using velvet in earthy tones like terracotta or olive green.
Geometric Patterns and Shapes
The 70s were all about bold geometric patterns and shapes. Incorporate these into your living room with patterned rugs, wallpaper, or even artwork. Think chevron, zig-zag, or abstract designs in earthy tones like ochre, rust, or mustard yellow. To avoid overwhelming the space, use these patterns sparingly. Combine them with solid-colored furniture pieces and natural materials for a balanced look. This trend is prevalent in both the US and EU, as designers are increasingly using geometric patterns to add a touch of retro flair to modern interiors.
Macrame Wall Hangings
Bring the bohemian spirit of the 70s into your living room with macrame wall hangings. These handcrafted pieces add texture and visual interest to the walls. Choose a macrame wall hanging in natural fibers like cotton or jute, and pair it with other natural elements like wood or rattan furniture. They’re a popular choice in both the US and EU, as they offer a simple yet effective way to add a touch of 70s charm.
Terracotta and Mustard Yellow
Embrace the earthy tones of the 70s with a color palette of terracotta and mustard yellow. Use terracotta for your sofa, armchair, or even a statement coffee table. Pair it with mustard yellow cushions, throws, or artwork. This color combination evokes a sense of warmth and comfort. It’s particularly popular in the US, where it’s being used to create cozy and inviting living rooms. In Europe, terracotta is often used as a base color, with mustard yellow accents added for a touch of vibrancy.
Brass and Chrome Accents
Add a touch of glam to your 70s-inspired living room with brass or chrome accents. These metallic finishes were a hallmark of the era. Use them for lamps, coffee tables, or even picture frames. Pair them with earthy tones like brown, green, or terracotta for a sophisticated and balanced look. Brass accents are especially popular in the US, where they’re being used to add a touch of warmth and personality to modern interiors. Chrome accents are more common in Europe, where they’re used to create a sleek and contemporary feel.
Mid-Century Modern Furniture
The 70s saw a continued embrace of Mid-Century Modern design. Incorporate classic pieces like a Chesterfield sofa, an Eames lounge chair, or a Noguchi coffee table. These pieces offer a timeless aesthetic that will never go out of style. The US and EU both share a love for Mid-Century Modern design, which continues to be a popular choice for modern interiors.
Shag Rugs
Add a touch of retro charm to your living room with a shag rug. Shag rugs were a popular choice in the 70s and are making a comeback. Choose a rug in a neutral color like beige or brown, or go for a bold color like orange or green for a statement piece. Pair it with other 70s-inspired elements, like a velvet sofa or a macrame wall hanging. Shag rugs are increasingly popular in both the US and EU, offering a unique and textured element to living rooms.
Wood Paneling
Embrace the rustic charm of wood paneling. Use it on one or two walls to create a focal point. Choose a light wood tone like pine or oak for a classic look. You can also use a darker wood like walnut or mahogany for a more dramatic effect. Wood paneling was a popular choice in the 70s and is experiencing a resurgence, particularly in the US, as it offers a warm and inviting look. In Europe, wood paneling is more commonly seen in traditional homes, but its use is growing in contemporary spaces.
Hanging Plants
Bring the indoors out with hanging plants. The 70s were a time of embracing nature, and this trend continues today. Choose plants that thrive in indoor conditions, such as spider plants, pothos, or ferns. Hang them from the ceiling or from a macrame plant hanger. This is a popular trend in both the US and EU, as people seek to bring the calming influence of nature into their homes.
Open Shelving
Create a sense of openness and flow in your living room with open shelving. Open shelving was a popular design element in the 70s, and it’s still a great way to display your favorite books, plants, and decor. Choose shelves made from wood, metal, or a combination of both. To avoid creating a cluttered look, arrange your items thoughtfully and use baskets or boxes to store items. This design trend is prevalent in both the US and EU, as open shelving offers a practical and aesthetically pleasing way to organize and display belongings.
Statement Lighting
The 70s were known for their bold and unique lighting fixtures. Make a statement with a vintage chandelier, a sculptural lamp, or a pendant light. Choose a light fixture in a metallic finish like brass, chrome, or copper. The US and EU both have a growing appreciation for vintage and statement lighting, and 70s-inspired lighting is a popular choice for adding character to living rooms.
Floral Prints
Bring a touch of whimsy and color to your living room with floral prints. The 70s were a time of bold and colorful patterns. Use floral prints for your curtains, cushions, or even wallpaper. Choose a bold floral pattern or a more subtle design. Floral prints are experiencing a resurgence in popularity in both the US and EU, offering a cheerful and vibrant addition to living rooms.
Bohemian Accents
Embrace the free-spirited vibe of the 70s with bohemian accents. Use items like dreamcatchers, tapestries, or ethnic rugs to add a touch of bohemian flair. These accents can be incorporated into any living room, regardless of the overall design style. Bohemian accents are a popular trend in both the US and EU, offering a touch of global inspiration and eclectic charm.
Natural Materials
Bring the beauty of nature indoors with natural materials. The 70s were a time of celebrating natural textures and materials. Incorporate elements like wood, rattan, bamboo, or stone into your living room. Use these materials for furniture, accessories, or even flooring. Natural materials are becoming increasingly popular in both the US and EU, as people seek to create more sustainable and eco-friendly living spaces.
Color Blocking
Embrace the bold and graphic aesthetic of the 70s with color blocking. Use two or three contrasting colors to create a visually striking effect. For example, you could use a burnt orange sofa with mustard yellow cushions and a terracotta rug. Color blocking is becoming increasingly popular in both the US and EU, offering a modern and dynamic way to add personality to living rooms.
Layered Textiles
Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere with layered textiles. The 70s were a time of experimenting with different textures and fabrics. Use a variety of throws, cushions, and blankets in different materials and colors. This trend is popular in both the US and EU, as people seek to create warm and inviting living spaces where they can relax and unwind.
Vintage Finds
Incorporate vintage pieces to add character and personality to your 70s-inspired living room. Look for vintage furniture, lamps, or artwork at flea markets, antique shops, or online. These pieces will add a unique touch that can’t be replicated with modern furniture. Vintage finds are increasingly popular in both the US and EU, as people seek to create unique and personalized spaces.
Round Coffee Table
Embrace the unique shapes of the 70s with a round coffee table. A round coffee table creates a sense of openness and flow in the space. Choose a coffee table made from wood, metal, or glass. A round coffee table is a versatile piece that can be incorporated into any living room style. This trend is becoming increasingly popular in both the US and EU, as people seek to add unique and stylish touches to their living rooms.
Geometric Rugs
The 70s were known for their geometric patterns and shapes. Add a touch of retro flair to your living room with a geometric rug. Choose a rug with a bold geometric design, such as chevron, zig-zag, or abstract patterns. Geometric rugs can add a pop of color and visual interest to any living room. They’re a popular choice in both the US and EU, offering a unique and stylish way to ground the space.
