Aug 28, 2024 | Flooring Canada
TL;DR: 1970s interior design blends comfort, natural materials, and warm, earthy colours for cozy, lived-in rooms. Think shag carpet, terrazzo tile, rattan, and retro touches. It's easy to add a little 70s decor to your home without a full makeover.
When most people think of the 1970s, they picture disco balls, bell-bottom jeans, and bold hairstyles. But beyond the fashion, designers were creating some of the most memorable home trends of the century. The '70s style stands out for its mix of comfort, natural touches, boho flair, and a little glamour. That makes it a timeless source of inspiration for today's homes.
That's why 1970s interior design is having a big comeback. If your home is due for a refresh, these retro trends might be just the spark you need. In this article, we'll walk through five ways to bring '70s decor into your space—and why this fun decade still shapes homes today.
The '70s have shaped interior design for decades, and their influence is still strong. In fact, the era is enjoying one of its biggest comebacks ever.
So why the boom? At its heart, '70s design blends cozy, hippie-inspired boho decor with bold, disco-inspired pieces. And who doesn't love that combo? The style also leans on neutral colours and natural materials. That makes the '70s look easy to fit into almost any space or vision.
Put it all together, and you've got a recipe for timeless style.
Not sure where to start on your '70s-inspired makeover? Here are five ideas to get you going. From floors to furniture to colours, you're sure to find something that fits your style.
The return of '70s shag carpet shows just how timeless it is. Imagine starting your morning by sinking your feet into warm, fluffy shag. It's as comforting as it is cozy.
Shag doesn't just feel great. It also adds a touch of style to any room, and it fits looks from Scandinavian minimalism to mid-century modern. For a versatile, timeless feel, try a cream-coloured shag carpet or an accent rug in your bedroom or living room. It's an easy way to bring the grooviness of the '70s home.
You might not know the name "terrazzo," but you've likely seen its bold patterns in '70s design. This flooring adds a fun layer of texture to any space, including your dining room and kitchen. It blends glass, marble, quartz, and other materials into a bold, lively surface.
Finished with a sleek, polished sealer, terrazzo brightens up a room and gives it energy. It can be an investment, but even a small amount makes a big impact. It also wipes clean fast, which is a nice bonus when life gets messy.
Rattan furniture has a light, airy feel that brings to mind breezy porches and coastal homes. It's a perfect nod to '70s style that still fits right into modern spaces. Rattan dining chairs, in particular, are stylish and practical. They're light enough to move around, and they're easy to clean and care for.
Beyond chairs, woven wall hangings made from rattan add texture and warmth to your walls. As a bonus, rattan is eco-friendly, making it a smart pick for any home. Pair it with a soft, neutral floor like a warm-toned luxury vinyl plank to keep the look grounded.
The sunken living room, also called a conversation pit, brings back the cozy, boho vibes that defined '70s decor. This nostalgic look creates a plush, inviting space that's perfect for lounging and long chats.
To get the look, add patterned wallpaper with bold geometric shapes for a retro touch. Velvet cushions bring a rich, glamorous feel, while rattan accents keep things natural. A low-slung sofa in a warm tone anchors the space, and a lava lamp adds playful, ambient light. Finish with comfy pillows, eclectic art, and a soft carpet to tie it all together. It's the kind of spot your whole family will want to pile onto for movie night.
While the '80s went bright and neon, the '70s stayed soft and calming. The style leans on warm shades like burnt orange, plus soothing neutrals like cream, beige, and pastels. These colours create a relaxing feel and are easy to mix and match with other pieces in your home.
You don't need a full repaint, either. A burnt orange throw or an earthy accent rug can shift the whole feel of a room. Small touches like a macramé wall hanging or a warm-toned floor lamp add even more retro charm. And a bit of warm wood panelling on a single accent wall can round out that laid-back '70s look.
Ready to bring some groovy '70s vibes into your home? Explore flooring options like terrazzo tile, wood parquet, and cozy shag carpet at your local Flooring America store, or browse our online flooring collection. Whether you're sprucing up your kitchen, bathroom, or any other space, we've got the perfect floor to make your retro dreams a reality.