17 Home Decor Trends from the ’70s That Make No Sense Now
Many popular home decor choices from the 1970s feel confusing or outdated by today’s standards.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
The 1970s were full of bold, experimental design trends that reflected the era’s culture and technology. While some choices were creative at the time, many would seem strange or impractical now. Looking back at these styles shows how much interior design has changed in both taste and function.
1. Shag Carpeting Everywhere
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Thick, high-pile carpeting covered floors, walls, and even bathroom surfaces. It trapped dirt easily and was hard to clean. The texture was considered cozy but became a magnet for dust. Today, it’s seen as unsanitary and difficult to maintain.
2. Wood Paneling
APK on Wikimedia Commons
Homes were often covered in dark wood veneer paneling from floor to ceiling. It made the rooms feel smaller and darker. It was meant to look natural but often looked artificial and cheap. Most people now replace it with paint or drywall.
3. Avocado Green Appliances
Daderot on Wikimedia Commons
Refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers came in deep green shades. This color was seen as trendy and earthy. Now, it looks outdated and dull. Stainless steel and neutral tones have replaced it in modern kitchens.
4. Sunken Living Rooms
Marsh Davis on Wikimedia Commons
These were lowered seating areas built into the floor, meant to create a social space. They were hard to clean and posed a tripping hazard. While unique, they didn’t age well in terms of safety or accessibility. Most homes have since leveled them out.
5. Macramé Wall Hangings
Tayn Tayn on Wikimedia Commons
Knot-based textile art is hung from walls and ceilings, adding a handmade touch. It was part of the natural, bohemian look. While some versions have made a comeback in style, most of the older ones appear bulky and mismatched. They often collected dust and didn’t serve a function.
6. Mirrored Walls
محمد بوعلام عصامي on Wikimedia Commons
Entire walls were covered in mirrors to make rooms feel bigger. It created glare, felt cold, and reflected too much light. These mirrors were hard to keep clean and made spaces look dated. Most homeowners now remove or cover them.
7. Carpeted Bathrooms
Mike Shaw on Wikimedia Commons
Bathrooms were often fully carpeted, even around the toilet. This design was meant to feel soft and warm underfoot. In reality, it absorbed moisture and was difficult to sanitize. Tile and vinyl are now the clear choice for bathroom flooring.
8. Beaded Doorways
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Instead of doors, homes had strands of plastic or wooden beads hanging in entryways. They didn’t block sound, light, or air. They tangled easily and made noise when you walked through. Most people now prefer real doors or open layouts.
9. Bold Patterned Wallpaper
Maurice Pillard Verneuil on Wikimedia Commons
Wallpapers featured loud prints with swirls, florals, or geometric shapes in bright colors. These overwhelmed small spaces and clashed with furniture. Many were hard to remove. Today’s designs favor cleaner, more subtle patterns.
10. Conversation Pits
Novoceram on Wikimedia Commons
These were built-in lounge areas set into the floor, surrounded by cushions. They looked modern but were hard to rearrange or use for anything other than sitting. They also took up a lot of space. Flexibility in room use is more valued today.
11. Popcorn Ceilings
Doggo19292 on Wikimedia Commons
Ceilings were textured with a rough, bumpy finish to hide imperfections. They trapped dust, were hard to clean, and could contain asbestos. Removing them is now a common renovation project. Smooth ceilings are preferred for both looks and safety.
12. Orange and Brown Color Schemes
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Many homes mixed deep oranges with browns for a “warm” effect. These colors now feel heavy and dull. They can make a room feel dated and closed in. Lighter, more neutral palettes are now more popular.
13. Plastic Furniture Covers
Basile Morin on Wikimedia Commons
Many homes used clear plastic covers on couches and chairs to protect the fabric. These were uncomfortable to sit on and made noise with every movement. It also made furniture feel uninviting. Today, washable fabrics and slipcovers are a better solution.
14. Overuse of Lucite and Acrylic
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Clear plastic was used in tables, chairs, and decor to create a futuristic feel. It scratched easily and often yellowed over time. Some pieces resembled office furniture more than home decor. Now it’s used sparingly or mixed with softer materials.
15. Wicker and Rattan Indoors
Chris 73 on Wikimedia Commons
Natural fibers like wicker and rattan were used in beds, chairs, and shelves. They were meant to bring nature inside but often wore down quickly. These materials worked better in sunrooms or patios. Inside the house, they lacked comfort and durability.
16. Hanging Chairs and Swings
Laylahipo on Wikimedia Commons
Some homes featured chairs suspended from the ceiling. They were playful but not practical. Anchoring them safely was difficult, and they were often unstable. Modern homes favor floor-standing furniture for comfort and safety.
17. Wall-to-Wall Drapes
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Heavy drapes covered the entire walls, sometimes even without windows behind them. They were meant to create drama or improve insulation. They blocked natural light and made rooms feel heavy. Lighter curtains or blinds are now more common.