There’s a retro revival happening in the world of interiors right now, with searches for ‘70s interior design’ surging by a staggering 5000% on Google in the past 30 days in the UK. The decade was remarkable for home decor and appears to have stood the test of time, say interior design experts.
But why is it so popular right now? Tom Revill, co-founder and creative director of Plank Hardware said, “There’s something charming and uplifting about ‘70s era decor styles. The decade was remarkable for home decor and it’s no surprise that we are seeing a resurgence with the rise of maximalism and eclectic styles. It is a far cry from the neutral and minimalist shades that dominated over the last couple of years.
“From florals and bold patterns to boho and rattan, there’s a range of ‘70s styles to choose from that will suit any living space. It was a warm, rich period that exudes comfort, here’s our top tips for nailing 70s-inspired interior design for modern day decor.”
- Rounded furniture
The ‘70s era saw a departure from the straight, clean lines of mid-century modern design and instead embraced more organic and fluid shapes. Curvy furniture, including sofas, chairs and coffee tables became popular for their playful aesthetic.
Chunky, ‘70s inspired cylindrical shapes have been the talk of the interiors’ town and this year we’ve ditched straight edges all together. Combined with the sleek tubular steel of Bauhaus design, the latest retro revival trend helps reinvent minimalist silhouettes.
- A groovy sofa
Any ‘70s inspired living room starts with a groovy sofa, preferably in velvet and in shades like avocado green, deep red, mustard yellow or earthy browns. Opt for a sofa with sectional or modular components that can be rearranged to suit different configurations.
‘70s sofas were often generously sized and featured a fun, colourful and eclectic style. Textured materials like velvet, suede or corduroy were popular choices.
- Bold 70s colours
The decade was known for warm and earthy colour palettes. Use a shade like mustard yellow, olive green, burnt orange or brown on your walls – don’t be afraid to go bold with colour drenching. Colour drenching encourages using statement shades generously throughout the space, experimenting with deep, rich colours that evoke the mood you want to create. Or, opt for statement pieces of furniture to create a retro feel.
- Mixing and matching patterns
One of the easiest ways to draw on the ‘70s maximalist look in your living room is by mixing patterned wallpaper and fun floor rugs. The ‘70s were characterised by bold and geometric patterns. As long as the colours coordinate, you’re good to go!
- Natural materials
‘70s interiors are often characterised by the use of natural materials such as rattan, wicker and wood and macrame. These materials add warmth and texture to your living room. Rattan and wicker furniture bring a light and airy feel to interiors, opt for a statement chair, basket or decorative accents.
- Oversized plants
Plants played a significant role in 1970s-inspired decor, contributing to the overall bohemian and natural aesthetic of the era and are an easy budget-friendly way to jump on the trend. Macramé plant hangers and oversized leafy green plants were a staple in the ’70s. Common choices for hanging plants included pothos, spider plants, or ivy.
- Statement details
Whether sideboards or alcoves, opt for cabinet handles with more playful, statement silhouettes. DIY existing cabinets with ‘70s inspired tubular handles. Make a statement by introducing retro designs on modern cabinetry, Plank Hardware’s ALVA collection will do the job – with a chunky, rounded silhouette inspired by the tubular interiors trend.
For more interior design inspiration, visit the Plank Hardware site.
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