Why 70s design is trending
Why 70s design is trending
They’re walking the streets in flairs, they’re decorating heads with mullets and moustaches, and they’re in our homes on modular sofas and groovy wallpaper. The 70s are back … and they’re taking over. But why are we so nostalgic?
Uncomfortable parallels can be drawn between the economic state of the world 50 years ago and now that may offer some insight into why we’re going back in time. But what did the decade offer that we’re in need of today? In short, the 70s embodied a chilled, laid-back attitude and created spaces that inspire socialising with warm, comforting earth tones, and an undeniable sense of fun.
Bold colour, playful shapes, and low-slung furniture offer a joyful alternative to another hugely popular vintage style - Mid-Century Modern. But in contrast to Mid-Century Modern homes, spaces designed with the 70s in mind manifest the decade’s carefree spirit. They embrace organic textures, layered materials, and decorate with inviting curves and waves to provide a cosy, comforting home to weather the storm in.
People are back in the swing of socialising after the pandemic, creating homes that welcome guests and choosing colours and details that are reassuring but conversational. Being brave with design encourages strength in our day-to-day, while placing importance on community and relationships.
Increasingly casual attitudes in society that extends into workplace dress codes and a wider acceptance of manifold forms of gender expression and personality presentation has helped give people the courage to be equally as free-spirited in their home decor.
The funky fashions of the 70s are making us happy, but we’re not just copying what’s come before. We’re selecting the best, curating an aesthetic that combines the playful patterns, shapes, and colours with modern accents, finishes, and requirements to create homes that give us what we need - relaxation, optimism, and a little bit of joy.