The 1970s is back with a vengeance (and honestly, did it ever go far away?), so if you’d like to unleash your inner Cher and John Travolta, here’s how.
Less is more
The 1970s may have been labelled ‘the decade that taste forgot’, and it’s true you wouldn’t want to revisit every type of decor – fringed lampshade, anyone? It was, however, a very energetic, vibrant period with bright colours, graphic prints and clean, space agey styles that translate well to a modern look.
Colours and patterns
Think bold. Large geometric and floral patterns in primary colours such as bright green, turquoise, bright yellow and those 1970s classics orange and brown are the way to channel some retro style. Don’t go mad, though – place one or two bright pieces such as lamps, cushions or bedspreads against a neutral background for maximum impact.
We like:
1. Isobel’s flowers yellow table lamp, Hunkydory Home
1970s floral lamp and shade, £75
This handmade lampshade is made from exclusive retro flowers fabric and is coupled with a glossy ceramic lamp base. Ideal for modern spaces to add a touch of retro design and a splash of colour. Lampshade is suitable for ceiling fixtures or lamp bases with UK or continental light fittings. £75 from Hunkydory Home.
2. Vibrance Indian rug, Ella Claire
1970s geometric print rug, from £59
Perfect to bring life and colour to any room, this 100% wool rug rocks a 1970s vibe with its swirly brown and orange pattern. Available in a range of different sizes, prices start at £59 from Frith Rugs.
Flooring
The 1970s saw a whole range of different flooring options coming onto the market, but fluffy shag pile (remember that?) to patterned ceramic tiles. Linoleum was popular, and fitted wall-to-wall carpets became a must have. Tiles were brightly patterned and often quite busy and overdone by modern standards. For a 1970s feel without the fussiness, try a plain wood flooring with a few strategically placed rugs – bold geometric patterns or fluffy natural sheepskin will give the right feel.
Seating
Faux leather and knobbly, textural wool fabrics are 1970s essentials. Chair and sofa shapes are boxy and deep with square cushions and buttons. We like these modern takes on the look:
3. Alexa sofa, Living it Up
Retro 1970s sofa, £549
Hand crafted to order and showing off a beautifully simple design the Alexa is the perfect addition to any modern room. Perfect for your living room but would also look wonderful in a large master bedroom to offer somewhere to kick back and relax away from it all. Available in a range of different colours, prices from £549 from Living it Up.
4. Monaco footstool, Delcor
Retro-style 1970s Monaco footstool, £471
A modern take on a retro Seventies style, the slim lines of this velvet covered footstool create an elegant silhouette. £471, from Delcor.
Lighting
Lighting entered a new era in the 1970s – think the lava lamp, arc lamp and globe lamp. This is one of the easiest 1970s trends to pick up on if you’d just like to introduce an accent or two.
5. Pineapple lamp, Eva Newton
Kitsch 1970s pineapple lamp, £60
This kitsch lamp will bring a taste of the exotic to your home.Designed by Eva Newton, it will fit into any decor and provide a splash of colour in a kitchen or a talking point in a sitting room. Each piece is handmade in Spain, moulded in vinyl, with an LED fixture emitting a soft glowing light. £60, available from Furnish.co.uk.
6. Hexagonal pattern glass table lamp, Out There Interiors
1970s-style glass table lamp, £125
This vintage-inspired contemporary table lamp with glass shade features a hexagonal design and a natural mango wood tripod as a base. £125 from Out There Interiors.
