Get the look - 70s Retro

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Did you read my post earlier this year about design trends for 2021? Here is a little refresher… https://www.interiorology.com.au/blog/interior-decor-trends-2021

As you can see, one of the big trends I predicted was the return of 70s chic. No, I am not talking about those horrible brown corduroys your dad or grandfather used to wear!

Instead I was talking about the return of bright colours - think lemon yellow, lime green and tangerine orange. But not just a brighter colour palette - I was also talking about the return of rattan and rooms full of indoor plants. I even mentioned the return of bean bags!

Why am I talking about it again, in the second half of 2021? Because this trend is still very much a happening trend.

Why? Well my personal view is that the uncertainty and confusion surrounding Covid 19 has meant that more than ever, we are looking for safety and comfort in our homes. Moving away from the recent trend of minimalism and neutral colours, we are looking for spaces that feel bright, optimistic and full of hope. For many of us, we are remembering the comfort and safety we felt in our parent's or grandparent’s houses.

Few styles provide all of this more than the 1970s Retro.

It is certainly no surprise to me to see so many elements of the 70s reflected back to me when I look at current furnishings, wallpapers or upholsteries. I even see images of lemons and mandarins printed on t-shirts and kitchen towels. The 1970s are back baby!

So how do you apply it in your own home? Well that depends on how brave you feel. For some, a full modern take of the 1970s is on the cards. Many others though will be more comfortable using pops of 70s retro, set against a more neutral and modern background. Indeed, this style works beautifully with more minimalistic styles such as Scandi.

If you want to get the look, here is some help.

Bright and earthy colours

Walls in the 70s Retro look were all about colour.

How liberally you apply those bright colours is up to you.

If it was me, I would start with a reasonably neutral palette and then add in some 70s Retro, by way of wallpaper and colourful furnishings. But hey, you do you!

If you want to go bold, then check out these examples of wallpaper from www.70sHouseManchester.com who sells some really amazing 1960s and 70s inspired products.

If you want to go a little more subdued, then here are some beautiful options which tie in nicely with a more scandanavian decor. Try these out from www.wallpaperfromthe70s.com


Or this gorgeous wallpaper from Quercus and Co which speaks to the more earthy colours that were also popular at the time. (www.quercusandco.com)

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Sleek and comfortable furniture

Back in the 1970s, everyone thought we would be living on the moon by the year 2000, so space-y styled furniture was all the go. Sleek and often rounded, furniture spoke to the future and was more minimalistic in its approach that say the wallpapers and other furnishings of the time.

For example, check out this chair and decor.

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Thankfully in 2021, you can get the 70s look with slightly more modern furniture. Check out these suggestions. Comfort is key. Suitable materials include linen, leather and velvet. Here are a few seating options that are available now.

Credits: Interiors Online; Merlino Furniture; Merlino Furniture

Check out these great examples of 1970s inspired living spaces, thanks to Dezeen.com


Bring the outdoors inside

The 1970s style embraces greenery and nature and so is a wonderful way to introduce some fresh air into our homes during a time when so few of us can leave them!

Pot plants, ferns and internal timber cladding all help create a sense of nature inside - great for mental wellness as well as bringing some outdoor serenity into your home when you are limited in your movements.

Rattan

Rattan is a very popular item at the moment - not only does it work well with a 70s Retro look, but it can be repurposed for many other styles as well. It is all round versatile.

When applied to a 1970s decor, there is no limit to where you can place it. From sofa frame to bedhead, buffet, mirror frame or coffee table. Functional and textural at the same time, it makes us think of warmer climates, and can be paired with more solid styles of furniture.

Pair with simple linens and accessories, rattan create a relaxed but warm vibe in any room.


Working with your preferred style

What do you think of this decorating style? Would you decorate with a 1970s motif? Have you already done so? Drop me a comment with some photos if you have. I would love to see them!

Remember, if you need help either defining or decorating with your favourite style, get in touch with me today. I would love to help you create your perfect space.

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