In a time when disco ruled the airwaves and polyester was the height of fashion, homes in the 1970s were a playground of bold colors, funky designs, and unique gadgets.
If you strolled into a 1970s home, you’d likely be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors and textures, each corner offering a new surprise.
From lava lamps to wood paneling, the homes of this groovy decade were a testament to individual expression and a love for all things bold and beautiful.
So, slip on your bell-bottoms, and let’s take a whimsical journey back in time to explore 17 things that were totally normal in the 1970s home, each one a charming reminder of a bygone era.
1. Avocado Green Appliances
If you ever stepped into a 1970s kitchen, you might have been blinded by the abundance of avocado green appliances. Refrigerators, ovens, and even dishwashers embraced this earthy hue, turning kitchens into trendy avocado havens.
It was a time when cooking felt like a stylish endeavor, thanks to these colorful companions. Despite seeming odd today, avocado green was the “it” color of the time, symbolizing nature and freshness.
2. Shag Carpeting
Imagine walking barefoot and feeling as if you’re stepping on a cloud. That’s what shag carpeting offered – a plush, almost unreal softness underfoot. Popular in vibrant hues like orange and deep red, shag carpets brought warmth and style to every living room.
While cleaning them was a bit of a chore (think vacuums and rakes), the visual and tactile experience was worth every bit of effort. Shag carpeting was more than just a floor covering; it was a tactile trip into comfort and luxury. A true 70s staple!
3. Wood Paneling
In the 1970s, no design trend wrapped a room in character quite like wood paneling. It wasn’t just a wall treatment – it was a full sensory experience. These deep, moody panels transformed ordinary spaces into cozy dens, radiating warmth and a dash of rugged sophistication.
A paneled living room felt like a personal lodge, a stylish escape from the outside world. Back then, this was the gold standard of cool, a design move that screamed comfort with a retro twist. Today, it may whisper nostalgia, but once upon a time, it roared with relevance.
4. Lava Lamps
With their mesmerizing wax blobs floating in colorful liquid, lava lamps were the mood-setters of the 1970s. They turned any room into a psychedelic wonderland, capturing the spirit of the era with their hypnotic glow.
Sitting atop a side table or dresser, these lamps were art. Their slow, rhythmic movements provided endless entertainment and a calming atmosphere. Whether you were hosting a party or just relaxing, a lava lamp was the perfect companion. Truly an icon of 70s decor!
5. Bean Bag Chairs
Ah, bean bag chairs – the ultimate symbol of casual comfort and 70s cool. These amorphous seats fit perfectly into any space, adapting to your body’s shape and making lounging an art form. Every kid and teen wanted one in their room.
Perfect for watching TV, reading, or just hanging out, bean bags were versatile and fun. They came in a variety of colors and patterns, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the decade. For those who embraced the laid-back lifestyle, bean bags were a must-have.
6. Macramé Decor
This knotted art form was everywhere, from plant hangers to wall hangings, adding a touch of handmade charm to homes. It was the perfect craft for those who loved to create.
Macramé brought texture and a bohemian flair to any room, embodying the free spirit of the 70s. Whether you were an expert or a beginner, creating macramé decor was a satisfying pursuit that filled homes with personal style.
7. Sunken Living Rooms
Step down, and welcome to luxury! Sunken living rooms were all the rage, offering a unique architectural feature that made homes in the 70s truly stand out. These lowered spaces were perfect for intimate gatherings or simply lounging in style.
With their plush seating arrangements and cozy layouts, sunken living rooms created a feeling of exclusivity and comfort. Hosting a party or just chilling with family, these rooms provided the ideal setting. A groovy architectural trend that redefined living spaces.
8. Bold Wallpaper Patterns
Ever feel like your walls should be the life of the party? In the 70s, wallpaper was anything but subtle. Bold patterns in geometric and floral designs turned every wall into a statement piece. It was a decade where creativity and self-expression reigned.
From kitchens to bedrooms, these vibrant wallpapers were all about making an impact. Sometimes dizzying, always daring, they reflected the era’s unabashed love for design. With wallpaper like this, who needed art? Walls became the canvas, and boldness was the brush.
9. Vinyl Records & Turntables
Spinning the tunes of an era, vinyl records and turntables were the heartbeat of the 70s home. Music wasn’t just heard – it was an experience. Collecting records was a hobby, a passion, and a way to express one’s identity.
No matter if hosting a disco party or enjoying a quiet night, the crackle of vinyl filled the air with warmth and nostalgia. Music lovers, this was your golden age!
10. The Fondue Set
Who knew melted cheese could be so fancy? Fondue sets turned dining into an interactive experience, bringing people together over a shared pot of bubbling delight. It was the ultimate dinner party trend.
Whether cheese or chocolate, fondue was about savoring every bite and enjoying the communal joy of dipping. With its kitschy charm and social appeal, the fondue set was a must-have for every 70s hostess.
11. Waterbeds
If you’ve ever wanted to sleep on a gentle wave, the 70s had you covered with waterbeds. This unique sleep innovation promised relaxation and a touch of luxury. It was more than a bed; it was a conversation piece.
Though they had the occasional leak, the allure of drifting to sleep on water was irresistible. Waterbeds were the ultimate symbol of modern comfort and indulgence, offering a unique sleeping experience. A quirky, yet beloved, part of 70s bedroom decor.
12. Harvest Gold Everything
Harvest gold – another color that defined the 70s home. From kitchen appliances to bathroom fixtures, this rich, warm hue was everywhere. It brought a sunny, cozy vibe to any space, making every meal feel like a golden occasion.
While it might clash with today’s minimalist trends, harvest gold was all about embracing a cheerful, retro style. It was a color that celebrated the decade’s love for bold, vibrant design. In the 70s, everything was golden, quite literally!
13. Television Consoles
Back in the ’70s, the television console was more than just a screen – it was a full-blown entertainment command center. Housed in hefty wood cabinetry, these all-in-one units combined TV, radio, and record player into one impressive piece of furniture.
They didn’t just sit in the living room – they ruled it. Friends and family would gather around not just for the shows, but for the experience.
14. Hanging Beaded Curtains
With a gentle sway and a satisfying clatter, beaded curtains transformed doorways into playful portals. These colorful strands added a touch of whimsy and fun, inviting you to pass through with a sense of adventure.
Perfect for separating spaces or simply adding flair, beaded curtains were a funky addition to homes. They embodied the free spirit and creativity of the decade. Walking through them felt like entering a different world, filled with possibilities and a hint of mystery.
15. Rotary Phones
Dialing a number was an experience in itself with rotary phones. These classic devices added a touch of elegance and nostalgia to every phone call. The satisfying click of the dial turning was music to the ears in a time before touchscreens.
With their sturdy build and colorful designs, rotary phones were both functional and fashionable. They were more than just communication tools; they were a statement of style.
16. Popcorn Ceilings
Look up, and you might spot one of the 70s most iconic design choices: popcorn ceilings. These textured surfaces added visual interest and were believed to improve acoustics. A common sight in homes of the era.
Though not everyone’s favorite today, popcorn ceilings were a testament to the decade’s innovative design approach. They provided a unique texture that made ceilings something more than just a flat plane. The 70s were all about making every surface count, even above your head.
17. Brown and Orange Color Schemes
Brown and orange – an iconic color duo that defined 70s interiors. This warm, earthy palette brought a sense of coziness and style to homes, creating spaces that felt both inviting and chic. It was a time when color was bold and unapologetic.
From furniture to accessories, the brown and orange theme permeated every room, setting the tone.