Tom Cooke
The disco decade was defined by bold colors, cozy textures, and playful decor that created warm, inviting spaces. Bringing this vintage vibe into your living room is easier than you might think! Here are ten simple ways to incorporate that nostalgic 70s style without going overboard.
Earthy Color Palettes with Bold Accents
The 1970s homes had earthy hues that echoed nature. To recreate that, bring in shades of burnt orange, avocado green, and mustard yellow to set a relaxed yet vibrant tone. Then, balance these using a neutral base like cream or beige for a classic look that doesn’t overpower the room.
Funky Furniture
Low-profile sofas and rounded chairs were huge in the Groovy era, mostly because of designers like Verner Panton and Eero Aarnio. Such playful, curved designs encourage lounging and conversation. You can use a velvet sectional or leather egg chair to bring that feel while keeping it comfortable.
Textured Rugs and Shag Carpets
Many living rooms had shag carpets in the 70s, and for a good reason—the fabric is soft and plush, and the designs are quite inviting. Go for a high-pile rug in a neutral color or with a pattern that pops. That’d be a perfect underfoot for those who remember (or missed out on) that cozy decor.
Macramé and Woven Wall Art
Artistic pieces instantly add texture and a handcrafted vibe to the walls. Popularized by the back-to-nature movement, macramé became a household name in 1970. Try hanging a macramé piece above the sofa or next to a shelf for an old-school boho decor that still feels fresh.
Houseplants and Rattan Planters
Indoor plants were practically a must-have in the 1970s—think spider plants, ferns, and pothos draped over roped hangers. You can also bring that spirit back using lush greenery in rattan or wicker planters. It’s a nod to the eco-conscious side of the olden days that fills life and color in your space.
Velvet and Corduroy Fabrics
Velvet and corduroy weren’t just for the decade’s fashion; they were a go-to for sofas and chairs too! Introduce these textures with a velvet accent chair or corduroy throw pillows for a bit of luxe coziness. In rich colors like deep teal or warm rust, they look effortlessly vintage and refined.
Statement Lighting
The era of disco was big on statement lighting. Put an iconic arc floor lamp with a globe shade, inspired by designer Achille Castiglioni, or even a classic lava lamp for something more fun. It’ll add a soft mood lighting that’s functional and old-school.
Low Shelving Units and Funky Display Pieces
Made famous by Scandinavian and mid-century designers, low shelving is both practical and stylish. Keep things consistent with shelves for books, record players, and unique finds, perfect for displaying vinyl records and memorabilia. Look for open, low shelves with clean lines to capture that retro aesthetic.
Geometric Patterns and Bold Wallpapers
The days of bellbottoms embraced geometric and floral patterns, especially in wallpaper. Choose a bold accent wall in a 70s-inspired print, or use geometric patterns in throw pillows or rugs if you prefer subtlety. It’s a quick way to create that signature retro design without overdoing it.
Vintage Art and Records
For a finishing touch, keep framed album covers or posters from the pop culture era. Back in the day, Fleetwood Mac or The Eagles were “rocking” the genre. These 70s vintage art prints and framed record sleeves will truly slip in the desired personality and nostalgia.