While contemporary interior design is all the rage these days, there are some things that never go out of style. And just as the fashion industry has seen the resurgence of certain ‘70s fashion trends— from bell bottom jeans to macrame tops and aviator sunglasses— the real estate market has seen a resurgence of ‘70s inspired interior design.
If you’re looking to add some ‘70s to your home, here are some design trends that are super groovy:
1. ‘Sit Back and Chilax’ with The Bubble Chair
The Bubble Chair is the perfect example of ‘70s design continuing to have a place in today’s luxury home. Originally prototyped by Finnish furniture designer Eero Aarnio in 1968, the Bubble Chair made a splash on the ’70s design scene and is now not only considered something of a classic but also a pop culture icon due to its appearances in popular tv shows, films, and magazines throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
Eero’s adherence to the principles of quality, simplicity, and luxury and the almost futuristic quality of his work allows the Bubble Chair to be seamlessly incorporated alongside more modern interior design elements. The chair’s hanging chain removes the need for a standing pedestal, and the transparent acrylic material used to create the chair’s unique sphere-like shape allows light to enter from all sides, making it the perfect reading nook or hangout space. For Eero, the Bubble Chair was meant to serve as a “little cocoon” that hid one from the outside world, with its unconventional shape providing both supreme comfort and unique acoustics. (Eero prided himself on the chair’s ability to isolate outside sounds while still providing a full 360-degree viewpoint.) Modernized versions of the Bubble Chair have also been adapted to modern needs, with added features including music speakers and MP3 player integration.
2. ‘Get Groovy’ with 70s Patterns & Symbols
This stylish outdoor patio is a great example of how to seamlessly incorporate ‘70s symbols and designs into your home, without having them steal the spotlight. After all, what’s more iconic and ’70s-esque than a peace sign? Done in a classic brown wood that aligns with the era’s proclivity for earthier tones, this statement piece adds an instant pop of eclectic style that is reminiscent of both ‘70s culture and aesthetics.
For additional edge, the cool-toned, zig-zag rug showcases the ’70s zealous commitment to bold patterns and vibrant colors. Overall, the patio’s open layout, emphasis on cooler, earthier tones, and sit-and-sink style upholstered furniture makes it the perfect space to take cues from if you are looking to incorporate ‘70s interior design into your home.
3. Elevate Your Space ‘To The Max’ with Warms Tones & Unique ‘70s Textures
Want an understated look? Adding warmer tones and unique textures to a space is a hallmark of ‘70s interior design, and one that aligns perfectly with modern trends without being too over the top. Take the room above as an example. This space uses warmer tones— browns, yellows, and reds —contrasted with a textured floral rug and vibrant throw pillows to balance cozy vibes with visual interest.
(Fun fact: Did you know the color brown is known to have mentally grounding effects?)
Additionally, it’s impossible not to notice the gorgeous leather Hair on Hide & Leather Arne Jacobsen Egg chairs and the luxurious leather couch. Once again, these pieces stay with the theme of using warmer colors and earthier tones to ground the space, with ’70s-inspired materials like moleskin and leather. Accent chairs like these (or like the Bubble Chair— shoutout Eero’s) are a classic way to elevate a space and provide any room with a touch of that coveted ‘70s flare.
4. Peacing Out(side)!
This home highlights not only major trends of ‘70s interior design, but also several common themes of mid century modern design in general, which is a highly popular style in the housing market today. (I always say, a beautiful mid century modern home in a good location and in good condition WILL absolutely sell!) This gorgeous property, with its second-floor patio and large, Art Glass windows, illustrates how specific design elements can be used to create a seamless flow between interior and exterior spaces. With a minimal, simplified exterior that meshes with natural elements, bold accents such as the wooden peace sign implemented on the upper-level patio, and a beautiful open floor plan that offers bright sunlight and plenty of fresh air, this home is an amazing example of how ‘70s inspired trends and a mid century modern style can create a nostalgic, yet modernized, appearance.
5. Maintain ‘Good Vibes’ with Geometric Shapes and ‘70s Patterns
This last example may seem the least obvious in terms of its ‘70s influences, but that just makes it a prime example of ‘70s trends seamlessly aligning with modern interior design concepts. The ‘70s style is perhaps easiest to identify here in the geometric style of the roof and patio tiles, as well as the psychedelic-like pattern on the rug beneath the table. Pops of color (on theme, in ‘70s browns, greens, and mustard yellows) are brought forth by vibrant chair cushions and earthier tones that complement the yard’s natural wildlife, adding additional life and a truly vibrant energy to the space.
Above all, these beautiful homes (all homes I’ve been fortunate to have sold for my clients!) showcase how design elements and motifs from the ‘70s can look fresh, modern and new … even fifty years later! As more niche trends such as Bubble Chairs, ‘70s patterned fabrics, peace signs, and upholstered seating see a revival in the interior design world, it’s important to remember that a space does not have to adhere to a singular style, methodology, or era in order to draw effectively upon the past… and attract the attention of future buyers.
If you’re interested in updating your home with ‘70s inspired design elements, don’t hesitate to reach out! I have a passion for interior design, and would love to chat about ways to upgrade your space with design features that make a big difference! Whether you want to add a little extra ‘70s funk to your favorite room, or are looking to list your ’70s-built home in a way that highlights its nostalgic vibe, it’s never too early to get started, so contact me today!
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Andrew Manning • REALTOR® • Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties • DRE: 00941825 • 818-380-2147 • andrew@andrewmanning.com