7 Ugly 70s Home Decor Trends Explained

Introduction to 70s Home Decor

The 1970s were an eclectic era for home decor, a time when creativity knew no bounds, and fashion didn’t always marry with taste. This period, often celebrated for its bold fashion and groundbreaking music, also introduced some iconic, yet sometimes questionable, interior design trends. Let’s dive into the curious world of ‘70s home decor, exploring why these trends became popular and how they reflect the cultural shifts of the time.

1. Avocado Green Everything

In the 1970s, nothing said ‘hip’ quite like a kitchen or bathroom adorned in avocado green. This vibrant color was everywhere—from appliances to tiles, and even the countertop surfaces.

Why it was popular: - The green hue was considered exotic and was influenced by the growing environmental movement. - It provided a stark contrast to the monotony of black-and-white TVs and the dull colors of previous decades.

🍐 Note: Avocado green is making a subtle comeback in modern design, especially in vintage-inspired kitchens.

2. Shag Carpeting

Shag carpeting was the sensation of the ‘70s, offering a plush, tactile experience to anyone walking barefoot.

Why it was popular: - It was a sign of luxury; the longer and thicker the pile, the wealthier you appeared. - It resonated with the bohemian culture, where comfort and a laid-back lifestyle were highly prized.

3. Wood Paneling

What could be more ‘70s than covering your walls with wood paneling? This trend brought the rustic charm of the great outdoors inside, giving homes a cozy, cabin-like feel.

Why it was popular: - It was an inexpensive way to add character and a sense of warmth to living spaces. - The trend was also influenced by the back-to-nature movement, where natural materials were celebrated.

🌲 Note: While wood paneling has lost favor, reclaimed wood or paneling with a modern twist has seen a resurgence in recent years.

4. The Great Taste of Harvest Gold

If avocado wasn’t your hue, then harvest gold was the color to choose. Think of this as the amber cousin to avocado green, ubiquitous in kitchens and appliances.

Why it was popular: - It exuded warmth and was considered more vibrant and life-affirming than the white appliances of the ‘60s. - The color was thought to reflect the golden harvests of America’s Heartland, connecting design with the earth.

5. Waterbeds

The waterbed became synonymous with the ‘70s—part comfort, part novelty, and a lot of mystique.

Why it was popular: - It promised unparalleled comfort, adapting to your body’s shape, providing the ultimate in relaxation. - The waterbed was often seen as a statement of independence, with a touch of modernity.

6. Orange as the New Neutral

Forget beige; the ‘70s had an unusual love affair with orange. Not the burnt sienna of fall but the unapologetically bright tangerine.

Why it was popular: - Orange was considered vibrant, energetic, and less aggressive than red but more youthful than yellow. - It was a color that suggested optimism and cheer, fitting well with the laid-back attitude of the decade.

7. The Advent of Bean Bag Chairs

Bean bag chairs were the epitome of casual living in the ‘70s. They were simple, fun, and adaptable—perfect for spontaneous lounging.

Why they were popular: - They represented the era’s informality, where comfort and flexibility in seating trumped the rigidity of traditional furniture. - The lack of structure symbolized the freedom and non-conformity of the youth culture.

Revisiting the Past: The Impact on Today’s Design

While many of these trends might seem quirky or even gauche by today’s standards, they have significantly influenced modern design. Here’s how:

Eco-Conscious Trends: - The ‘70s’ appreciation for nature led to the use of natural materials, which has reemerged in the form of sustainable design practices today.

Color Revival: - Colors like avocado green and harvest gold are finding their way back into kitchens and bathrooms, often as accent colors or in retro-themed spaces.

Comfort over Form: - The concept of comfort and adaptability in furniture is still popular, although in less extreme forms like ergonomic chairs or versatile, modular seating arrangements.

Vintage Charm: - Vintage or retro-inspired designs are becoming mainstream, with a nod to the bold and playful aesthetics of the ‘70s.

🎨 Note: Today's designers often use '70s elements as a touch of nostalgia to create eclectic and personalized spaces.

Why We Remember These Trends

These trends capture the spirit of the times, a period of exploration, experimentation, and a shift towards comfort and individuality. They were not just about decorating homes but also about expressing identity through one’s living space, reflecting the cultural movements that shaped the era. As we look back, these trends remind us of the beauty in embracing imperfection and the joy of living amidst vibrant, unapologetic designs.

Summary

In this blog, we explored seven significant home decor trends from the 1970s:

• Avocado Green and Harvest Gold: These colors dominated kitchens, symbolizing a connection with nature.
• Shag Carpeting: Defined by its plush texture, it brought comfort and luxury.
• Wood Paneling: Offered a rustic charm, connecting the indoors with nature.
• Waterbeds: An emblem of modernity and comfort.
• Orange: Became a color of choice, exuding warmth and energy.
• Bean Bag Chairs: Represented the informality and non-conformity of the youth culture.

These trends might seem dated now, but they paved the way for the eclectic, sustainable, and comfort-driven designs we see today.