13 Home Design Trends That Scream ’70s
Home design in the 1970s was marked by bold colors, synthetic materials, and experimental styles that are instantly recognizable today.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
The 1970s introduced unique and often dramatic design trends in homes, many of which reflected the cultural shifts of the time. From shag carpets to wood paneling, these choices were bold and heavily influenced by new technologies and changing lifestyles. While some have returned in modern forms, many remain tied closely to that era.
1. Wood Paneling Walls
Dietmar Rabich on Wikimedia Commons
Dark wood paneling was used in living rooms, basements, and hallways throughout the 1970s. It was often made from plywood or pressboard and installed in vertical strips. The look created a closed-in feeling and darkened the space. It fell out of favor due to its artificial appearance and limited light reflection.
2. Shag Carpeting
Steve Shook on Wikimedia Commons
Shag carpets had long, thick fibers and came in vibrant colors like avocado green and burnt orange. They were difficult to clean, as they trapped dust and allergens. Despite that, they were popular for their comfort and visual impact. Modern flooring trends favor surfaces that are easier to maintain and more neutral in tone.
3. Avocado Green Appliances
Daderot on Wikimedia Commons
Kitchens in the 1970s commonly featured appliances in avocado green. This color was considered stylish and earthy at the time. Refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers were all manufactured in this shade. Today, most buyers prefer stainless steel or white finishes for a cleaner, more modern look.
4. Conversation Pits
Balthazar Korab on Wikimedia Commons
A conversation pit was a sunken seating area built into the floor of a living room or lounge. It was designed to create a cozy, social environment for entertaining guests. While it made a bold statement, it posed safety risks and took up a lot of space. Few modern homes include this feature due to its impracticality.
5. Macramé Décor
Ksenia Chernaya on Pexels
Macramé wall hangings, plant holders, and room dividers were widespread during the 1970s. Handmade from knotted rope, they added a bohemian, handcrafted feel to interiors. This trend faded as tastes shifted toward cleaner, minimalist aesthetics. However, some elements of macramé have reappeared in recent years.
6. Orange and Brown Color Schemes
Ezgi Baytar on Pexels
The 1970s favored warm, earthy tones like rust, mustard yellow, and deep brown. These colors were used on walls, carpets, furniture, and even ceilings. The goal was to reflect a connection to nature, but the effect could be overpowering. Today’s interiors lean toward lighter, neutral palettes that feel more open.
7. Popcorn Ceilings
Enoch Leung on Wikimedia Commons
Popcorn ceilings were sprayed with a textured material to hide imperfections and reduce sound. This finish became popular because it was quick and inexpensive to apply. Over time, it was linked to asbestos concerns and became hard to clean. Now, many homeowners remove or avoid this type of ceiling texture.
8. Built-In Bars
Max Vakhtbovycn on Pexels
Homes in the 1970s often included built-in bars with mirrored backs and glass shelves. These were used for entertaining guests and mixing drinks at home. The trend reflected a shift in social lifestyle and the growing popularity of cocktail culture. As home layouts changed, many bars were removed or downsized.
9. Rattan and Wicker Furniture
Darina Belonogova on Pexels
Natural woven furniture was widely used indoors and on patios. Rattan and wicker chairs, tables, and shelving were considered stylish and relaxed. While lightweight and affordable, the materials aged quickly and lacked long-term durability. Today’s furniture trends focus more on structural quality and long-lasting materials.
10. Sunken Bathtubs
Curtis Adams on Pexels
Sunken bathtubs were often surrounded by tile platforms or built into the floor. This design was seen as modern and luxurious in the 1970s. However, it was hard to clean and could be dangerous to get in and out of. Most modern bathrooms favor simpler, safer, and more space-efficient tub designs.
11. Mirrored Walls
Elina Sazonova on Pexels
Large mirrored panels covered the entire walls in living rooms, dining areas, and hallways. They were intended to make spaces look larger and reflect light. While effective in function, the aesthetic quickly became dated. Modern interiors typically use mirrors more selectively.
12. Vinyl Flooring in Bold Patterns
Max Vakhtbovycn on Pexels
Vinyl floors with busy geometric or floral patterns were standard in kitchens and bathrooms. They were easy to clean and came in a variety of bright colors. However, the patterns often overwhelmed small spaces. Newer flooring materials tend to feature simpler, more natural designs.
13. Patterned Wallpaper
Yaroslav Shuraev on Pexels
Wallpaper in the 1970s was bold, with oversized floral prints, swirls, and stripes. It covered every wall in a room, and sometimes even the ceilings. The adhesives used were strong, making removal difficult. While wallpaper has returned in recent years, the patterns today are typically more subtle and used sparingly.