15 Household Relics That Defined the 1960s

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The 1960s were a remarkable period for many reasons, but most folks love it for its groovy aesthetic. Individuality was also paramount in everything from music to fashion to house decor. Here are 15 quintessential 1960s must-haves that were cherished. 

Lava Lamps

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The mesmerizing, bubble-filled lava lamps of the 1960s were the ultimate mood lighting. They symbolized the decade’s counterculture and trippy aesthetics. Lava lamps were a requisite accent for any self-respecting 1960s bachelor pad or hippie household.  

Rotary Phones

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Landline phones, with distinct circular dials, were the communication hubs in every house. Rotating the dial to place each call painstakingly became a ritual, as families waited for the satisfying “click” before lifting the receiver.  

Formica Countertops

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Durable, low-maintenance Formica was a kitchen staple. The easy-to-clean material complemented the streamlined, trendy look favored back then. Formica’s prevalence stemmed from its affordability, functionality, and ability to inject a hint of mid-century flair into the heart of the home. 

Sunburst Clocks

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Starburst-shaped wall clocks with radiant gold or chrome spikes were ubiquitous. These timepieces symbolized the era’s interest in atomic-age imagery and futuristic motifs. They added a dash of retro-chic style to any space while also serving as a highly functional ornament that kept families on schedule. 

Shag Rugs

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Deep, plush shag carpeting in striking hues like orange, green, and purple transformed floors into soft, cozy havens. These luxurious rugs perfectly captured the indulgent, hedonistic spirit of the decade and became a defining feature of interior design.

Avocado Green Appliances

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Avocado green emerged as the must-have color for major kitchen appliances in the 1960s, from refrigerators and stoves to dishwashers. The popularity of this distinctive shade also showed broader cultural shifts as the environmental movement gained momentum.

Danish Modern Furniture

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Clean lines, gentle curves, and a focus on functionality characterized the Scandinavian-inspired Danish modern furniture that garnered fame in many homes. Rosewood, teak, and other natural materials provided a timeless, sophisticated charm that stood in contrast to the past’s more ornate, traditional styles. 

Fondue Sets

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Gathering around a bubbling melted cheese or chocolate pot became a beloved social habit. These interactive, communal dining experiences tapped into the decade’s fascination with European culture and indulgence. For hosts, a well-appointed fondue setup was a mark of sophistication.

Sputnik Chandeliers

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These eye-catching lights brought celestial wonder into the home. They gave an air of mid-century contemporary elegance. Sputnik lighting fixtures were a symbol of technological progress and the era’s limitless optimism about the future.

Record Players and Vinyl Records

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The audiophile’s choice for music was vinyl records and the warm, crackly sound of turntables. Record players also served as statement pieces with modernist designs. For many, the vinyl record and its associated playback equipment showed a sense of authenticity.

Psychedelic Posters

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Vibrant, mind-bending posters featuring swirling patterns, pop art, and psychedelic depictions turned into the era’s visual shorthand. The posters, with kaleidoscopic designs and bold, contrasting colors, were not merely decorative—they also functioned as powerful symbols of the era’s social and political upheaval. 

Pop Art

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Drawing inspiration from consumerism and celebrity culture, 1960s pop art manifested in playful decor pieces like Campbell’s soup cans, Marilyn Monroe portraits, and other iconic photos. These colorful, mass-produced items supplied a touch of ironic commentary and irreverent humor to 1960s homes.

Macrame Wall Hangings

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Intricate, knotted macrame creations in earthy tones were a signature home accessory, bringing an organic, bohemian taste to living spaces. The handcrafted textile artworks were often DIY projects, and they matched the rustic element of rattan furniture and shag rugs. 

Terrazzo Flooring

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This speckled, terrazzo flooring material, with its mix of chips and stones, lent homes a sleek, modern look. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, terrazzo’s resilience and easy maintenance made it a practical choice for high-traffic areas like entryways and kitchens.

Rattan Furniture

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Woven rattan chairs, tables, and bar carts brought a breezy, tropical vibe. Whether adorning patios, sunrooms, or homey nooks, rattan furniture infused homes with a laidback resort ambiance that reflected the era’s embrace of relaxation, leisure, and a connection to nature.