How to Create a 1970s Style Interior

Dig out those flairs and hop on the dance floor this season as we celebrate the sexy and stylish interior design of the 1970s. Juicy colour schemes and futuristic technology took centre stage in 1970s homes with a bold and uplifting look that was both vivid and cosy.

A combination of Art Nouveau influences, industrial finishes and high tech designs created a unique style with a quirky mix of chic and fun.

1970s home interiors were all about colour! Fruity tones such as apple red and tangerine looked fabulous alongside muted tones such as beige and taupe and created a burst of sunshiny fun in any room of the home. Avocado green was a hugely popular colour choice in fabrics, cupboards and even bathroom suites to create a blast of colour that was slightly more subdued that some of the more neon colour tones. For a more laid back look then brown, cream and vanilla will create a cosy and sophisticated feel that follows on from the bohemian look of the 1960s. Art Nouveau style also made a huge comeback during the 1970s with gold, black and silver taking pride of place in many living room and bedroom areas.

When it comes to selecting upholstery for your 1970s interior, look for bold colour palettes in simple wool, linen and cotton fabrics and select abstract floral patterns and geometric prints.  These will create a focal point within your interior space as well as providing a futuristic feel that is modern and fresh.  Webbed furniture was extremely popular with plastic coated strips of fabric being woven together in a cross hatch design for a simplistic yet colourful ‘deck chair’ look that could be co-ordinated or clashed with your walls and flooring. Another must have look is the classic ‘afghan’ which could be used as a throw on your bed or sofa area or as a large and bold rug that worked equally well in bold and neutral colour schemes. For added glamour you could add some faux fur fabrics in your cushions and rugs that look amazing with a gold and black art nouveau style interior.

1970s home interiors were filled with an array of lighting features that could compliment the stylish mix of natural and futuristic whilst providing functional practicality throughout the home. Table lamps featured bold shades in psychedelic patterns that could be partnered with your wallpaper or clashed against a bare brick wall for a contrasting yet complimentary look. Popular floor lamps were designed in a curvaceous overhanging arch that featured a simple orb shade that created a zoned lighting area over a sofa or occasional chair. Ceiling lights were designed from sleek plastic in bold colours or glimmering metals in gold or silver that contrasted with the textural artex ceilings that were popular n the majority of 1970s homes.

Accessories during this period featured an assortment of traditional and modern materials that could be used as co-ordinating or contrasting styles that were a perfect celebration of 1970s interior design. Ceramics by famous names such as Troika were crafted in traditional materials with a rugged finish but also featured modern design features that sat comfortably in both bold and neutral home decors. Bold ceramics and crockery in fun and funky patterns were a regular sight in kitchen and dining room areas and could be displayed in a modular dresser or sideboard for a stylish visual focal point. Choose plain white plates and mugs with vivid floral designs, geometric prints or quirky mushroom images for a classic 1970s finish. For a more modern take on this look then select items from designers such as Orla Keily who takes influence from these original, bold 1970s styles.

When selecting furniture for your 1970s home then you can choose from a simplistic industrial style, a bold space age look or combine the two for a fun mix of finishes and designs. Furniture items were sleek and slim line with items from G plan, Olivetti and Rodney Kinsman being popular choice in a wide range of homes. High tech designs and innovate materials were used to create a range of ergonomically designed seating that moved from the office into the living space to give a modern and sleek interior finish. Mario Bellini created a selection of chairs and seating areas that showcased a mix of classic fabrics and modern style that is bold and visually interesting. Practical furniture designs such as futons became hugely popular choices as they could be accommodated into small home interiors and created a sleek and slim line finish that was innovate and complimentary to the contemporary colour schemes of the home.

For more ideas on creating a stylish 1970s home interior then take a look at our latest Pinterest board - Pinterest - 1970s Interiors