10 Ways to Decorate Your House Like the 1970s Without Making it Feel Dated

Ah, the 1970s – when the colours were bold, the patterns vibrant and the art abstract. And, as anyone who loves scouring the web for decor inspiration knows, what was old will always be new again. From bean bag chairs and macrame wall hangings to chrome or vinyl furniture, here’s how homeowners can add a little vintage vibe to their abode without going overboard.

A retro living room featuring brown furniture, floor lamps and abstract wall art

Lauren Kolyn

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Abstract Wall Art

When we think back to homes from the 1970s, we think earthy colour tones, beige furniture and overarching floor lamps. It also brings to mind the abstract wall art frequently found hanging over the living room couch. Not sure where to look for artwork? Check out some of the most popular and budget-friendly abstract paintings from Etsy.

Check out the incredible before and after photos from A Very Brady Renovation.

A retro dining room with a brown chrome table set with textured wall art hanging nearby

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Chrome Table Set

Gather the family together for a games night on your throwback chrome dining room table, complete with retro chairs. The good news is that you don’t have to aimlessly search online for a vintage dining set that harkens back to your childhood. Wayfair has a plethora of chic retro chrome sets that are a total blast from the past.

White and blue macrame wall art hanging above a matching bed in the guest bedroom

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Macrame Wall Art

Hang some macrame wall art above your bed or living room couch for a simple and inexpensive way to lend your space a retro feel.

Patterned throw pillows on a guest bed in a room with potted plants

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Patterned Throw Pillows

Oversized patterned throw pillows were a popular home accessory in the 1970s and we can totally understand why. There’s something comforting about curling up with one on the couch or on the bed. If you’re not sure where to find the latest vintage-inspired styles, try HomeSense or IKEA for options.

For more throwback inspiration, these ’90s bedroom decor ideas will make you feel all the nostalgia.

Bold blue and yellow furniture in a retro living room outfitted with potted plants, LPs and throw pillows

Lauren Kolyn

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Retro Furniture Colours

Decades ago, bold colour schemes was the name of the game when it came to curating furniture to display throughout the home. The 1970s, in particular, heavily favoured yellows, greens, browns and oranges when it came to couches, shag rugs and wall art.

For more retro looks, check out these boho-chic living room decorating ideas you’ll want to steal.

A circular glass coffee table in a retro living room featuring neutral furniture and carpets

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Glass Coffee Table

Glass coffee tables were all the rage in the 1970s and they’re back in full force in a variety of shapes and sizes that will easily spruce up your living room. Check out IKEA for replicas that totally send out serious vintage vibes.

A stylish renovated kitchen featuring a blue and marble island, stainless steel appliances and brass light fixtures

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Brass Lighting Fixtures

If a variety of vintage looks appeal to you, then you might want to steal a page from this stunner by the Property Brothers. It’s all about the mix of colour and texture, from the gold cabinet handles and chrome stools to the oversized brass pendants lights that harken back to a different era.

A basement living room space with wall-to-wall grey carpeting

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Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

When you think 1970s, you think bright orange shag carpeting covering everything from the basement floor to the stairs leading up to the second level. For a modern approach, consider far more subtle wall-to-wall carpeting that will still lend your home a cozy, comforting feeling without being garish and outdated.

Soft brown and beige bean bag chairs in a neutral basement living room space

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Bean Bag Chairs

It’s hard to resist the temptation to plop down into a bean bag chair and nestle in while reading a good book or watching a movie. It’s also an easy accessory to add to any room without overwhelming the space. Hop over to The Home Depot for fun and cost-effective bean bag chair options.

Bright green wall paint in a bold living room featuring a blue couch, narrow coffee table and potted plants

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Bold Wall Paint

Yellows, oranges and greens were among the hottest wall paint colours of the era and while they’ve never entirely disappeared from our decor dreams, they’ve only recently started to make a comeback in a really bold way after the recent years of softer tones and neutral palettes. If you’re brave enough, bring it back with a bang by introducing vibrant colours to your living space.