Step back in time and embrace the groovy vibes of the 1960s with these design ideas for a retro living room. From bold color palettes to iconic furniture pieces, this era is brimming with inspiration for creating a space that’s both stylish and nostalgic. Whether you’re aiming for a full-blown mod aesthetic or just adding a few vintage touches, these ideas will help you channel the spirit of the swinging sixties.
Geometric Patterns and Bold Colors
Embrace the bold, geometric patterns that were a hallmark of 1960s design. Think large-scale squares, circles, and triangles in vibrant hues like orange, yellow, green, and blue. These patterns can be incorporated into rugs, wallpaper, upholstery, or even artwork. For a modern take, opt for muted versions of these colors or use a single bold color as an accent against a neutral backdrop.
Mid-Century Modern Furniture
No 1960s living room is complete without iconic mid-century modern furniture. Look for pieces with clean lines, organic shapes, and a focus on functionality. Popular choices include Eames chairs, Saarinen tables, and Knoll sofas. These pieces can be found in vintage shops or reproduced in contemporary styles. Mix and match different styles and materials to create a dynamic and eclectic look.
Velvet Upholstery
Velvet was a popular fabric in the 1960s and is making a comeback in modern interior design. Its luxurious texture and rich color adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to any space. Consider a velvet sofa, armchairs, or even throw pillows. Opt for vibrant colors like emerald green, mustard yellow, or deep purple for a true 60s feel, or choose more neutral tones like gray or navy for a more contemporary look.
Psychedelic Art
The 1960s were a time of artistic experimentation, and psychedelic art is a defining element of the era. Incorporate this vibrant, mind-bending style into your living room with posters, prints, or even original paintings. Look for abstract patterns, swirling colors, and bold imagery that captures the spirit of the times. Pair these pieces with minimalist furniture and neutral walls to create a striking contrast.
Space Age Lighting
The 1960s were a time of great advancements in technology, and this spirit is reflected in the space-age inspired lighting of the era. Look for futuristic designs with geometric shapes, chrome finishes, and unusual materials. Pendants, floor lamps, and even wall sconces with a space-age aesthetic will add a touch of retro cool to your living room.
Terrazzo Flooring
Terrazzo flooring, with its mix of colorful chips embedded in a cement base, was a popular choice in 1960s homes. It adds a touch of retro charm and durability to any space. While traditional terrazzo can be expensive, there are now more affordable options available, including vinyl and tile that mimic the look.
Macrame Wall Hangings
Macrame was a popular craft in the 1960s, and its bohemian aesthetic is still trendy today. Incorporate macrame wall hangings into your living room for a touch of texture and warmth. Choose from intricate patterns, geometric shapes, or simple fringed designs. Hang them over a sofa, fireplace, or even a bare wall for a pop of color and texture.
Brass Accents
Brass was a popular material in the 1960s, and it adds a touch of warmth and elegance to any space. Incorporate brass accents into your living room with lamps, side tables, or even decorative objects. Choose pieces with simple, geometric designs for a more modern feel, or opt for ornate, vintage pieces for a true 60s look.
Vintage Record Player
A vintage record player is a must-have for any 1960s living room. Not only is it a stylish statement piece, but it also allows you to enjoy classic vinyl records. Look for a turntable in good condition, with a built-in speaker or even a separate speaker system. Decorate the surrounding area with your favorite albums for a truly retro vibe.
Checkerboard Pattern
The checkerboard pattern was a popular motif in 1960s design, and it adds a touch of retro cool to any space. Incorporate it into your living room with rugs, pillows, or even wallpaper. Choose a classic black and white color scheme for a timeless look, or opt for more vibrant colors like orange and green for a bolder statement.
Exposed Brick Walls
Exposed brick walls were a popular feature in 1960s homes, and they add a touch of industrial chic to any space. If your living room has brick walls, consider leaving them exposed and painting them in a neutral color. If not, you can create the look with brick wallpaper or even faux brick panels.
Wicker Furniture
Wicker furniture was a popular choice in the 1960s, and it adds a touch of natural warmth and bohemian charm to any space. Look for wicker chairs, armchairs, or even coffee tables in natural tones or painted in bright colors for a bolder statement.
Hanging Plants
Indoor plants were a popular trend in the 1960s, and they bring a touch of nature and life to any space. Choose plants that thrive in indoor conditions and display them in hanging baskets or macrame planters.
Abstract Art
Abstract art was a popular style in the 1960s, and it adds a touch of sophistication and interest to any space. Choose abstract paintings or prints that feature bold colors, geometric shapes, or flowing lines.
Geometric Lampshades
Geometric lampshades were a popular design element in the 1960s, and they add a touch of retro cool to any space. Choose lampshades with geometric shapes like squares, circles, or triangles, and pair them with lamps in metallic finishes for a modern twist.
Woven Rugs
Woven rugs with geometric patterns or abstract designs were a popular flooring choice in the 1960s. Choose a rug with a bold color palette or a more muted design that complements your furniture and artwork.
Shag Carpeting
Shag carpeting was a popular flooring choice in the 1960s, and it adds a touch of retro glamour to any space. Choose a shag rug in a bold color like orange or green for a true 60s feel, or opt for a more neutral tone like gray or beige for a more modern look.
Disco Ball
A disco ball is a fun and festive addition to any 1960s living room. Hang it from the ceiling or place it on a side table for a touch of retro glamour.
