Best Home Design

Best 1970s interior design tips: Inspiration for retro-style home decor

April 1, 2023
Sandra Harvey
E

ye-catching wallpaper, geometric shapes and psychedelic prints, 1970s flairs are dominating the interiors space.

You only need to step into Soho House, restaurant openings across the capital and newly renovated homes to see the prevalance of the decade – and is it any wonder? The mid-century modern aesthetic is a complete rejection of the ubiquitous grey, drab and museum-like aesthetic that has set the agenda in the last few years.

Gaining traction are bold and playful combinations that take a more welcoming and homely approach, set with earth tones, clashes of patterns and low slung furniture in plush fabrics and jewel-toned colourways – all with a very modern touch.

When you walk into a sepia-toned room that’s been given a healthy dose of Seventies nostalgia, you feel instantly relaxed. The blast from the past brings with it a laid-back atmosphere without compromising on style.

Warm colour palette? Check. Cosy design details? Check. Ambient lighting? Check. Not to mention the bold patterns, multitude of plants and crafty design details that deliver the sense of groove and free-spiritedness associated with the era.

Our top tip? Don’t make it too performative. A dash here and there is enough to create the vibe without feeling like you’re living on the set of Boogie Nights. We’re talking earthy colour palettes, curved edges, textural bouclé and velvet soft furnishings alongside hints of rattan or bamboo here and there – not forgetting the all-important dimmable lights throughout the room.

Look out for the likes of cantilever chairs, teak sideboards and, if you’re into it, a vintage turntable with some of your favourite records is a great way to add 70s flair. Feel free to go for a new set of speakers, though keep them out of plain sight to maintain the vibe.

If you’d rather subtle accents of the era instead of an entire overhaul, wallet-friendly purchases include glassware, cushions and lighting. These will pep up your space whilst not requiring any major changes or organisational admin.

Keep scrolling for the best.

McIntosh Midcentury Vintage Dunvegan Teak Sideboard Credenza 1960’s

Vinterior

If you’re looking to achieve a vintage look, begin your search with e-tailer Vinterior so you can invest in preloved pieces from the comfort of your own home.

McIntosh sideboards hit the 70s brief on the head but this iteration falls at the most costly end of the spectrum. It’s an investment though with graduated drawers, a double cupboard and is in excellent condition.

Heals Bellhop LED Portable Table Lamp

Heals

Offering ultimate lighting versatility, not only is Heals’ lamp portable, but it also has a four step dimming function so you can cater for any scenario – be it a games night with friends or simply an evening spent relaxing at home.

If you want something more budget friendly, you can get a similar style from eBay for less than £30.

Homary Modern White Bedroom Bench Boucle Tufted Long Bench with 4 Legs

Homary

Whilst Homary’s bench may not be the most practical piece of furniture, it certainly delivers when it comes to style.

From the boucle upholstery to the curved design, pop it in your hallway, at the end of your bed or even in your living room to inject a dose of mid-century modern spirit.

Cult Furniture Kenton Dining Chair, Natural & Black

Cult Furniture

A quick and easy way to tick off both a cantilever chair and rattan detailing, Cult Furniture’s design does it all – and it doesn’t compromise on comfort, either. There is a reason why it has already become a firm favourite among the fashion set – it brings style and substance in spades.

John Lewis Cotton Velvet Cushion, Paprika

John Lewis

An easy way to introduce the 70s feel for a fraction of the price is with soft furnishings – and John Lewis’ cushion will do the trick nicely. For the full effect, go for this burnt orange shade – if it’s not for you, there are 17 others to choose from.

Soho Home Wyatt Three Seater Sofa

Soho Home

Exuding the relaxed glamour of the era, Soho Home’s velvet sofa with a floating base and sloped cushions over the edge will elevate even the simplest of rooms. In a rich, dark navy, it will set your interiors agenda as the centrepiece of the space.

Noho Home Maat Mirror

NoHo Home

From the wavy structure to the choice of white bouclé or brown velvet edging, NoHo Home’s mirror is about as Seventies as it gets.

You can get the look for less at Daals or Rit Concept, too.

Gadhouse Tangerine Brad Retro Record Player With Speakers

Urban Outfitters

If you’ve not yet jumped on the vinyl bandwagon, here’s your cue. At once adding a pop of colour to your sideboard or coffee table and offering a new way to listen to your favourite music, Gadhouse’s turntable will bring you joy in more ways than one. Now all you need is the records.

Lick X Soho House Paint

Lick X Soho Home

Soho House is known for its Seventies-inspired interiors, so the members club’s paint collaboration with Lick is a surefire way to guarantee your home exudes the same feeling. With eight colours to choose from, every room is taken care of.

Fazeek Orange Wave Glass Set

Ssense

Featuring Melbourne-based label Fazeek’s trademark rippled edge, this unusual set of glasses is sure to impress even the most discerning of guests. Just make sure it’s filled with their favourite tipple.