Go Retro with These 1970s Inspired Room Revamp Tips

Pinning for a bit of nostalgia with your home decor? How about trying a look inspired from the 1970s—an era filled with bright, vibrant colours, tasteful pop art, and lots of kitsch. It was a decade of domestic experiments; the mixing and matching of autumnal, earthy tones; the use of classic Victorian florals, and the making of handcrafted decors--from the weaving of macrame to the rainbow inspired curtains dangling by the doorway.

A total blast from the past may put your room out of place, but, by picking up your favourite 1970s features, you can recreate a fresh, new space with both modern and retro twist. It's a great way to introduce an old era to the kids, a time when you were at their age—adventurous and curious. A bit of nostalgia never hurts, especially if it rejuvenates that child in you and brings you wonderful memories of your own youth. Of course, you may want to stay away from wild orange decors, earthy avocado walls and confusing mandala textiles, or the children will be raising their brows to question your taste. In order to keep your 1970s room revamp under control, here are a few tips and inspirations.

The Earth Child

The 1970s era is all about deep, earthy tones—browns, tans, greens and golds. For a reading corner, decorate your quiet space with a leather couch (which already screams retro) and accentuate it with a rug. Break the earthy look with a pair of brightly coloured throw pillows. This area could be a nice addition to your home office or study corner, allowing you to let the nature in. A few potted plants, like succulents and cacti, will make this space more whimsical.

Textures On Textiles

Instead of implementing chunky floral patterns on your wall, why not use it fabrics with the 1970s vibe as your room textile? You can easily recreate the retro look by covering your mattress with bright, repeated flower graphics. Accentuate the room by adding a few more colours on the shelf. When your yearning for nostalgia is over, you can easily change up the atmosphere by replacing the covers with a new design. 

Orange is On!

Orange is one of the most well-loved 1970s colours, and while it can be intimidating to use, you can actually infuse it on your home décor! Get away with it by employing proper colour blocking. In this kitchen, the homeowner manages to involve a bright pop of orange against the moody wooden tones. This transformation makes the kitchen fresher and youthful. And, to add up a few retro twist, accentuate the space with many metallic furnishings and décor. 

Make Me Macramé

Plant lovers will definitely love a piece or two of these beautiful, hanging pots in woven macramé. This popular craft has been popular during the 1970s and is being revived by modern designers. Use it to show off your beautiful, ceramic planters even while inside your home—it’s perfect for small spaces like apartments and condominiums. This offers a breath of fresh air, literally, inside your loft. Hang it by your windows or balconies, or on a horizontal pole, such as this DIY branch.

Here is My Art

Another 1970s feature—brightly coloured artworks! These child-like scribbles reminds one of the retro style pop art, but other than decorating blank corners of the wall, they add colour to the otherwise grim, neutral tones of the room. Art lovers will have fun searching for the perfect, vivid piece that expresses their individuality. If you are an artist yourself, why not try your hand with that brush and create your own piece to take pride in?

Light Up My Lamp

Small accents, like your lighting, can actually make a retro difference. Adding a fabric-shade floor lamp emphasises the 1970s era without overwhelming your room’s overall design. This is a nice, subtle way to go retro, without leaving your modern, contemporary roots.

Check our out extensive range of vintage style pendant lighting here.

Do you have your own 1970s room revamp tips? Share it with us by commenting below!

Images via FSV "Vintage Industrial Home Décor" Pinterest board.