30 Signs Your House Was Built In The 60s

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Ah, the swinging 60s – a decade renowned for its vibrant culture, music, and, of course, unique architectural styles.

If you’re living in a house that’s a blast from the past, you might notice some distinct features that scream 1960s. From the bold colors to the funky patterns and innovative designs, these homes tell stories of a bygone era.

But what exactly makes a house distinctly 60s? Let’s embark on a groovy journey to explore the unmistakable signs that your home is a relic from this iconic decade.

1. Pastel Bathroom Tiles

Stepping into a bathroom adorned with pastel pink or mint green tiles is like entering a time machine straight to the 60s. These tiles were all the rage, bringing a soft yet lively vibe to the smallest room in the house. Often paired with matching fixtures, they added a pop of color that was both daring and delightful.

Today, these pastel hues might seem a little kitschy, but they were the epitome of chic back then. If your bathroom still sports this look, congratulations—you’re living the 60s dream!

2. Wood Paneling Walls

Ah, wood paneling—the quintessential hallmark of a 1960s abode. Covering the walls with rich, dark wood was a way to bring nature indoors, offering warmth and a touch of sophistication. It wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was a statement of style and comfort.

While modern tastes may have shifted towards brighter, airier spaces, there’s no denying the nostalgic charm of a room enveloped in wood.

If your living area still boasts these panels, you’re sitting on a piece of retro elegance.

3. Shag Carpeting

Nothing says 60s quite like the plush, luxurious feel of shag carpeting under your feet. Available in a spectrum of vibrant colors, this carpet was both a bold design choice and a cozy flooring option.

It turned any room into a comfortable haven.

Despite being a bit challenging to clean, shag carpets provided an undeniable sense of style and luxury. If your floors still sport this iconic carpeting, you’re experiencing the decade’s comfort right underfoot.

4. Sunken Living Rooms

Imagine stepping down into your living room—a concept both innovative and trendy in the 1960s.

Sunken living rooms, or conversation pits, created a distinct space for social gatherings, enhancing interaction among guests. It was a literal way to elevate the living experience.

Though not as common today, these unique spaces offered a cozy retreat and a chic design. If your home features one, you’ve got a conversation starter on your hands, and a nod to architectural ingenuity.

5. Bold Wallpaper Patterns

Bold and daring, wallpaper patterns in the 60s were not for the faint-hearted. From geometric shapes to floral prints, these eye-catching designs were about making a statement. Walking through a room adorned with such wallpaper was akin to stepping into an art gallery.

Despite the sometimes overwhelming visuals, these patterns added character and vibrancy to a home. If your walls still boast these retro designs, you’re living in a masterpiece of 60s interior design.

6. Built-in Bars

Entertaining was an art form in the 1960s, and nothing said ‘party’ quite like a built-in bar at home. These bars were the centerpiece of social gatherings, complete with mirrored backsplashes and an array of glassware.

Owning a home with a built-in bar was a status symbol, showcasing both hospitality and style. If your house still flaunts one of these setups, you’re ready to host with the flair of a 60s socialite.

7. Accent Walls

Accent walls burst onto the scene in the 1960s, transforming otherwise plain rooms into vibrant spaces.

Whether painted in a bold color or covered in wallpaper, these walls became focal points that drew attention and admiration.

While today’s designs may favor subtler hues, a 60s accent wall is all about embracing color and creativity.

8. Avocado Green Appliances

Ever peeked into a kitchen and been greeted by a wave of avocado green? You’re likely standing in a 60s time capsule.

This shade was the go-to color for kitchen appliances, exuding a sense of modernity and uniqueness.

Though tastes have evolved, these appliances remain iconic symbols of the era.

9. Exposed Brick Walls

Exposed brick was the darling of 1960s home design, bringing urban charm into suburban settings. The raw, unfinished look added an earthy, rustic vibe that contrasted beautifully with sleek furniture styles of the era.

Today, exposed brick is still cherished for its character and warmth. If your walls proudly flaunt this feature, you’re carrying on a tradition of timeless, textured aesthetics.

10. Recessed Lighting

The 1960s ushered in the era of recessed lighting, offering a sleek alternative to traditional fixtures.

This lighting style provided a clean, unobtrusive way to illuminate a room without overshadowing furniture or décor.

Even today, recessed lighting remains popular for its modern appeal.

11. Patterned Linoleum Floors

Step into a kitchen with patterned linoleum floors, and you’re stepping back to the 60s, where vibrant, eye-catching designs were all the rage.

These floors were not only stylish but also practical, offering easy maintenance and durability.

Though they might seem a bit flashy now, linoleum floors were a staple of mid-century homes.

12. Retro Light Fixtures

The ceiling was adorned with retro light fixtures in the 60s, each piece a work of art. From starburst chandeliers to globe pendants, these lights were more than functional—they were statements of style.

Despite the evolution of design trends, these fixtures continue to captivate with their unique charm. If your home still glows with these lights, you’re basking in the innovative spirit of the 60s.

13. Conversation Pits

Conjure images of cozy gatherings and you’ll find yourself in a 1960s conversation pit. These sunken seating areas were designed to foster intimate interactions, creating a relaxed atmosphere for family and friends.

While modern designs might prioritize open layouts, the conversation pit remains a symbol of unity and comfort.

14. Popcorn Ceilings

Look up, and the distinctive texture of popcorn ceilings will transport you back to the 1960s. This stippled design added depth to ceilings while concealing imperfections—a practical yet stylish choice of the time.

Though tastes have shifted, popcorn ceilings remain a nostalgic nod to mid-century design.

15. Mid-century Modern Furniture

Furniture in the 60s was all about sleek lines and organic shapes—hallmarks of the mid-century modern movement. Pieces were not only stylish but functional, blending form with purpose seamlessly.

Today, mid-century modern remains a beloved design style for its timeless appeal. If your home is furnished with these iconic pieces, you’re living amidst a harmonious blend of past and present.

16. Geometric Design Elements

Shapes and patterns took center stage in the 1960s, with geometric design elements adding visual intrigue to interiors. From diamond-shaped tiles to hexagonal mirrors, these designs were bold and unapologetic.

Though contemporary styles may favor subtler patterns, the geometric flair of the 60s remains a captivating design choice.

17. Terrazzo Countertops

Picture terrazzo countertops—speckled, colorful, and quintessentially 1960s.

This composite material, made from chips of marble, quartz, and glass, offered a durable and eye-catching surface for kitchens and bathrooms.

While trends have shifted, terrazzo remains a timeless design element cherished for its unique appearance.

18. Wall-Mounted Rotary Phones

Catch the ring of nostalgia with a wall-mounted rotary phone—a staple of 1960s households. These phones were as much about communication as they were about style, with their distinctive dials and vibrant colors.

While technology has advanced, the rotary phone remains an iconic piece of décor.

19. Cork Flooring

Walk across cork flooring, and you’re experiencing a piece of 1960s innovation. This natural material offered both comfort and insulation, making it a popular choice for mid-century homes.

Though design trends have evolved, cork flooring continues to be appreciated for its eco-friendliness and unique texture.

20. Sputnik Chandeliers

Light up your living space with a Sputnik chandelier—a symbol of the atomic age and 1960s futurism. This eye-catching fixture, resembling a satellite, brought a sense of movement and modernity to any room.

While styles have diversified, the Sputnik chandelier retains its flair for drama and design.

21. Formica Kitchen Tables

Gather around a turquoise Formica kitchen table—a staple of 1960s family meals. This durable laminate material was cherished for its practicality and vibrant color options, making it a favorite in homes of the era.

Though tastes have evolved, Formica tables remain a nostalgic nod to mid-century dining.

22. Freestanding Fireplaces

Ignite memories of the 60s with a freestanding fireplace—a design marvel that brought warmth and style to any room. These fireplaces, often with a metallic finish, served as focal points and conversation starters.

While design preferences have shifted, freestanding fireplaces continue to captivate with their quirky charm.

23. Vintage Vinyl Records

Spin your way back to the 60s with a collection of vintage vinyl records—an era where music was analog and album art was iconic.

These records were not just about the tunes; they were about the experience of music as an art form.

Though digital music reigns, vinyl records have made a nostalgic comeback.

24. Swag Lamps

Hang a piece of 60s chic with a swag lamp—an iconic lighting fixture known for its draped chain and bold colors.

These lamps added flair and ambiance, making them a popular choice for living rooms and bedrooms.

While styles have evolved, swag lamps remain a playful nod to mid-century elegance.

25. Danish Modern Chairs

Sit back in a Danish modern chair, and you’re experiencing the epitome of 1960s sophistication. Known for their clean lines and minimalist design, these chairs were both comfortable and chic.

Though furniture trends have shifted, Danish modern pieces remain beloved for their timeless elegance. If your home features these chairs, you’re seated in a stylish tribute to Scandinavian design.

26. Arc Floor Lamps

Illuminate your space with an arc floor lamp—a fixture that brought both light and style to the 60s home. With its sweeping curve and distinctive design, it was both functional and fashionable.

While lighting styles have diversified, arc lamps retain their iconic status.

27. Macramé Plant Hangers

Add a touch of bohemian flair with macramé plant hangers—a staple of 1960s décor.

These intricate woven holders brought nature indoors, showcasing houseplants in a creative and artistic way.

Though styles have evolved, macramé remains cherished for its handcrafted charm.

28. Sheer Drapes

Float into the past with sheer drapes—an elegant window treatment that brought light and airiness to 1960s homes. These translucent curtains added a touch of softness while allowing natural light to fill a room.

Though window fashions have changed, sheer drapes remain a timeless choice for their delicate beauty.

29. Dumbwaiters

Transport yourself to a time of convenience and charm with a dumbwaiter—a small elevator for moving items between floors, popular in 1960s homes.

This practical feature was both novel and useful, particularly in multi-level homes.

While modern conveniences have surpassed it, the dumbwaiter remains a quirky piece of history.

30. Retro Wall Clocks

Time travel becomes a reality with a retro wall clock gracing your 1960s kitchen.

These timepieces were not just functional; they were design statements with bold colors and unique shapes.

Today, retro clocks continue to charm with their nostalgic flair.