27 Best 70s Interior Design Ideas

The 1970s were a wild ride of bold patterns, rich textures, and groovy colors. If you’re looking to bring that unmistakable retro vibe into your home, you’re in the right place.

Whether you want a full-on ’70s time capsule or just a few nods to the era, here are 27 interior design ideas to transport your space back in time.

1. Earthy Color Palettes

The ’70s were all about warm, earthy tones. Think mustard yellow, burnt orange, avocado green, and rich browns. These colors create a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere that instantly channels the decade’s aesthetic.

2. Bold Geometric Patterns

From wallpaper to rugs, geometric designs were everywhere in the ’70s. Consider zigzags, checkerboards, and swirling motifs to add dynamic energy to your space.

3. Rattan and Wicker Furniture

Nothing screams ’70s quite like rattan and wicker. These natural materials add warmth and a bohemian touch, making any room feel effortlessly vintage.

4. Macramé Wall Hangings

Macramé wasn’t just a craft project—it was an essential decor piece. A large, intricate macramé wall hanging can serve as a textured focal point in your living room or bedroom.

5. Sunken Living Rooms

The ultimate ’70s design flex? A sunken conversation pit. If you can’t renovate, mimic the look with a low-profile sectional arranged in a cozy, enclosed seating area.

6. Shag Rugs

If the ’70s had a signature texture, it was shag. These ultra-plush rugs bring warmth, texture, and nostalgia underfoot, making your space instantly groovier.

7. Velvet Upholstery

Lush, tactile, and glamorous—velvet sofas and armchairs were a staple in ’70s homes. Opt for deep jewel tones or classic ’70s hues for an authentic touch.

8. Wood Paneling

Whether real wood or faux, wood-paneled walls were everywhere. To modernize the look, go for lighter stains or mix paneling with painted walls for contrast.

9. Psychedelic Wallpaper

The ’70s weren’t shy about statement wallpaper. Try bold, swirling designs in deep, moody colors for a true retro revival.

10. Hanging Egg Chairs

These suspended chairs add a playful, sculptural element to any space. Pair with a shag rug for the ultimate lounge corner.

11. Beaded Curtains

Replace standard doorways with beaded curtains for a funky, boho-chic vibe. The soft clinking sound adds an extra sensory layer to your home.

12. Statement Lighting

From oversized globe pendants to funky mushroom lamps, lighting in the ’70s was all about unique shapes and warm glows.

13. Houseplants Galore

No ’70s home was complete without an indoor jungle. Opt for monstera, spider plants, and ferns in macramé plant hangers to fully embrace the era.

14. Low-Slung Furniture

Sofas and chairs in the ’70s had a low, lounge-worthy profile. Look for pieces that are deep and inviting, encouraging relaxed conversations.

15. Terrazzo Surfaces

This speckled stone surface was everywhere in the ’70s, and it’s making a comeback. Use it for flooring, countertops, or decor accents.

16. Abstract Artwork

The ’70s embraced bold, abstract designs. Hang large-scale paintings with swirling, curvy lines in bright, contrasting colors.

17. Glass and Chrome Tables

A mix of glass, chrome, and mirrored finishes created that signature glam-meets-modern aesthetic in the ’70s. A glass coffee table with a chrome base is a great way to bring the look into your home.

18. Mirrored Walls

Yes, mirrored walls! While a full-wall mirror may feel excessive, a mirrored accent wall can create the illusion of a larger, brighter space.

19. Brown and Orange Kitchens

Kitchen designs in the ’70s revolved around deep, earthy tones. Wood cabinets, orange countertops, and tiled backsplashes were all the rage.

20. Vinyl Flooring

Linoleum and bold-patterned vinyl flooring were common, often featuring floral or geometric prints.

21. Archways and Rounded Features

Rounded doorways, furniture, and decor elements softened the space, creating a more organic and inviting flow.

22. Funky Tiled Bathrooms

’70s bathrooms weren’t afraid of color and pattern. Opt for retro-style tiles in warm shades and floral patterns to capture the aesthetic.

23. Layered Textiles

Throw crochet blankets, quilted bedspreads, and patterned cushions into the mix for a lived-in, cozy feel.

24. Boho Bed Canopies

Create a dreamy ’70s bedroom with a bed canopy made from gauzy, flowing fabric.

25. Curved Sofas

’70s furniture favored fluid, organic shapes. A curved sofa makes a major statement while keeping things cozy and inviting.

26. Retro Record Players

Nothing transports you to the ’70s like a vintage record player spinning classic vinyl hits.

27. Gold and Brass Accents

From light fixtures to table legs, gold and brass finishes added a touch of glam to ’70s interiors.

Conclusion

The ’70s were a bold, expressive decade in interior design, and these ideas prove that retro doesn’t mean outdated. Whether you go all-in or just sprinkle in a few vintage touches, these design elements will add nostalgic charm and timeless style to your space. Let the groovy times roll!