Lisa O
Back in the 1970s, homes had a very distinct feel. It was warm, a little funky, and full of charm. It wasn’t just about furniture or paint colors; it was about the little things that made a house feel loved and unmistakably personal. From shag rugs to avocado green everything, these were the 15 cozy, quirky touches that made any ’70s home feel just right.
Wood Paneling on the Walls
There was something about walking into a room lined with dark wood paneling that felt instantly comforting in the ’70s. Whether it covered a whole den or just one wall in the living room, this trend gave homes a warm, cabin-like vibe. It didn’t matter that it was often fake wood—it was about the mood it set, cozy and just a little bit retro.
A Console TV with Rabbit Ears
Those big wooden console sets were often the centerpiece of the living room, complete with fuzzy reception and a set of aluminum foil-tipped rabbit ears. Gathering around to watch Saturday morning cartoons or the evening news made it feel like home in a way streaming never could.
Shag Carpeting in Bold Colors
Stepping onto a thick shag carpet felt like stepping into a different world. Whether it was burnt orange, mustard yellow, or forest green, these deep-pile carpets were more than flooring—they were a design statement. They added texture, warmth, and a little bit of groovy style that made any room feel relaxed and totally lived in.
Crochet and Macramé Decor
Homes in the ’70s had a handmade feel, and macramé was everywhere—from plant hangers to wall art. Crochet blankets, doilies, and pillows gave rooms a homey look, often made by someone in the family. These were a sign that someone had put love and time into making the space feel welcoming.
Avocado Green and Harvest Gold Appliances
The kitchen didn’t feel complete without a pop of avocado green or harvest gold. These bold appliance colors were trendy in the best way and gave kitchens a cheerful, funky edge. Whether it was the fridge, stove, or blender, these colors made the room feel alive, like something exciting might be cooking, even if it was just Hamburger Helper.
A Wall Phone with a Long Cord
A phone wasn’t just a device. It was also an experience. Mounted to the wall with a spiral cord stretched halfway down the hall, it was where you had long talks, quick updates, or gossip with friends. That cord could reach the kitchen or let you hide in a closet, and somehow, that made it feel more personal than any modern call ever could.
Beaded Curtains and Funky Room Dividers
There was a little bit of whimsy in every ’70s home, and beaded curtains brought that free-spirited vibe to life. Hanging them in doorways or as a room divider made the home feel playful and unique. Every time you walked through one and heard that soft rattle, it reminded you that style didn’t always have to follow the rules.
Record Player with a Stack of Vinyl
Music was a part of everyday life, and nothing said “home” like the sound of a needle hitting a vinyl record. Whether it was The Eagles, Stevie Wonder, or Fleetwood Mac, spinning records on a player in the living room or den gave the house a soundtrack. Album covers were often displayed proudly, adding a touch of personality to every shelf.
Patterned Wallpaper in Every Room
From wild florals to geometric designs, wallpaper was a bold way to add personality. It wasn’t unusual to have one pattern in the kitchen, another in the bathroom, and yet another in the hallway. These prints were loud, colorful, and sometimes a little overwhelming—but they gave each room its own identity and made everything feel vibrant and full of life.
A Sunken Living Room
If a house had a sunken living room, it was considered super stylish. Dropping down a step into a cozy, conversation-friendly space with low furniture and throw pillows felt both casual and cool. It invited people to relax, hang out, and stay awhile, as if the house itself was telling you to kick off your shoes and make yourself at home.
Wood-Burning Fireplace or Wood Stove
A crackling fire on a cold night was the heart of the home in the ’70s. Whether it was a classic fireplace or a round, freestanding wood stove, it brought warmth and a rustic charm that made everything feel more inviting. Families gathered around to talk, read, or enjoy the glow—it wasn’t just heat, it was comfort.
Houseplants Everywhere
Bringing the outside in was a big deal in the ’70s, and homes were filled with leafy green plants. Spider plants, ferns, and pothos sat on windowsills, hung from macramé holders, or stood proudly in the corner of the living room. They gave the home a fresh, earthy feel and made you feel like nature was always just a step away.
A Cluttered Yet Cozy Kitchen Table
The kitchen table wasn’t always picture-perfect, but it was the center of activity. It might be covered in mail, school papers, cereal boxes, and a bowl of fruit—but that clutter meant life was happening. Families ate meals, played games, did homework, and had real conversations there, making it one of the warmest spots in the house.
Family Photos in Mismatched Frames
Walls and tabletops were often filled with family photos, usually in mismatched wooden or brass frames. There wasn’t a focus on perfect coordination—just memories on display. School pictures, faded Polaroids, and vacation shots told a story of love and life. They reminded everyone who walked in that this wasn’t just a house—it was a home full of people who mattered.
A Well-Worn Recliner or Couch
Every home had at least one seat that was broken just right. Maybe it was Dad’s recliner or a sunken spot on the couch that seemed to hug you when you sat down. These pieces weren’t about looks—they were about comfort, memories, and the kind of familiarity that makes you feel like you’ve arrived the second you walk through the door.