The 70s are back! The decade of avocado bathrooms and shag pile carpets is having a revival – thankfully though, in an updated and far more refined way. According to Elise Taylor at , “The 1970s have long been lampooned for their more questionable choices, like plastic-covered furniture, traffic-cone orange palettes. But the 2020s take is more restrained, more curated, cherry-picking 70s-inspired highlights while ditching the dated aspects.”
This isn’t a trend to have suddenly exploded overnight either; it’s something that has been drip-feeding back into our lives without even knowing. From the catwalk to social media data, the 70s are now coming back in a big way. Lilith Hudson at agrees, “This retro interior trend has proven to be an enduring one, with elements of its design creeping into our homes in recent years. But now, designers and forecasters are predicting that a 70s-inspired style is set to be one of the biggest interior design trends of 2023.”
So, is this a scheme we can incorporate into small space living without it looking garish and cluttered? The answer is yes! You don’t have to go all out and design your home akin to a Wes Anderson utopia – although we think that would be pretty cool too!
Something we are all yearning for at present is a bit of fun, frivolity and freedom – and that’s exactly what this period brings. So, if you’re thinking about trying this out in your modern home, here are some top tips on embracing the new 70s vibe.
Eclectic mix
From rattan and wood to cosy tactile seating and maximalist textiles, the more eclectic the better. However, eclectic doesn’t mean just throwing pieces together without thought – decide what you like and start curating a collection of items that look good together.
Stick to neutrals and natural materials, then include a pop of colour with your upholstery or accent pieces. Think reds, greens and oranges – sumptuous earthy tones ooze 70s boho chic, yet also provide a warm and homely aesthetic. The Twingle and Switch daybed embodies everything about this trend perfectly – colour and comfort in a daybed, what more could you ask for?
Curved appeal
Playing around with textures and patterns paves the way for experimenting with shapes. Curved furniture and home accessories are key design elements of the 70s and definitely here to stay. Giving a wonderfully playful touch to the home, round mirrors, soft-edged furniture and wavy lighting are great statement pieces to consider working into your scheme.
Touchy feely textures
Anything tactile was all the rage in the 70s. Textures, patterns and natural materials – such as bamboo, rattan and handcrafted ceramics – help create the modern, refined version of this look.
We’re talking velvet, cocooning seating, practical yet stylish bamboo storage and hardwearing earthenware. It shouldn’t be style over substance when it comes to incorporating a new trend into the home. And yes, let’s just leave the shag pile back in the past – at least for now!
Plant power
The craze for houseplants and bringing the outside in has soared over the years. Pinterest and Instagram are overflowing with a growing movement towards design that brings nature into our homes – yet there is nothing new about filling the home with planters and vases when they were already huge in the 70s.
Spider plants, ferns, cacti, monstera (or swiss cheese plant) – you name it, this decade had it all when it came to greenery. Nowadays, faux plants are a low-maintenance and cost-effective solution, especially if you are short on space or light and don’t have particularly green fingers.
Can you dig this trend? And are you ready to lean in and give it a go? Check out our website or one of our stores for more 70s inspo.
