When envisioning the 1970s, images of avocado ponchos, shag carpets, and melamine plastic furniture may come to mind. Terrifying? Perhaps! And yet, hindsight allows us to discern the good from the bad. Let's focus instead on the heavenly earth tones, wood paneling, bulbous globes, and velvet sofas resembling clouds.
The seventies gifted us Studio 54, where shaggy bohemians mingled with Manhattan socialites, dancing beneath the luminous twinkle of a disco ball. This iconic New York City club was a haven of new-age elegance, where the likes of Princess Margaret and Andy Warhol revelled in the hedonistic spirit of the era.
Drawing inspiration from the iconic night club, let's emphasise textural contrast: muted colours paired with glittering surfaces, rich dark woods alongside lighter rattans, and sculptural objects that accentuate their materiality.
Embracing the 1970s aesthetic means embracing contrasts and individuality. It's about celebrating the unique blend of styles and influences that defined that era, from the sleek lines of modernism to the organic shapes of bohemian chic.
So, let's don those bell bottoms, ladies and gentlemen! Here's to a 70s-inspired interior design edit.
MARIO MARENCO Arflex Marenco Sofa
Mario Marenco wasn’t just known for his sculptural dining chairs – his sofa shares the same sophisticated design principles, making it an icon of Italian design. Created in 1970, this cloud-like low-slung sofa is a collector's item. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort for beauty. Its concealed metal frame cleverly supports the seat and armrests, which are designed to slip on and off with ease, giving the collection both comfort and practicality.
CLO STUDIOS Pinch Coffee Table
The Pinch Coffee Table, crafted from smooth elm timber and boasting a rich mocha finish, exudes that raw and muted 70s appeal we're all after. Bold, bulbous and beautiful, you can keep it bare or adorn it with your favourite coffee table books. This coffee table is a must-have for any stylish space!
TASCHEN Decorative Art 70s Book
One review describes Decorative Art 70s as "an indispensable tool for collectors: names are named, designs praised, and accusations made". We all need to be expertly educated in dramatic expressions of futurism alongside rustic eco trends. This book collects the best of the 1970s.
ARMADILLO Agra Rug in Burnt Amber
Ground your space with this burnt amber iteration of Armadillo's Agra rug. Worked in a single colour with a deep cut pile that reflects the light, Agra brings life, character, and timeless elegance to both contemporary and traditional interiors. And, if you're feeling a bit 70s-inspired, it's not quite a shag, but it's got that shaggy charm.
THE VAULT SYDNEY Vintage Rush Caned Stool
If you're looking to add a touch of vintage to your curated space, but aren't sure where to find an authentic piece that's worthy of your collection, try The Vault Sydney. Masters in 20th-century European antiques, they offer just what you need – like this adorable rush caned stool, which is a perfect addition to your space.
GUBI 9602 Floor Lamp
Whimsical, minimal, and iconic in design, the "Chinese Hat" lamp – as it’s known – was designed by Paavo Tynell; a piece I have been swooning over for a very long time. Adding a playful, exuberant quality to the top, balanced by the more static form of the base, the 9602 Floor Lamp is perfectly suited for creating a gentle, ambient light in the domestic living room. For those aiming to infuse a touch of 70s chic into their interiors, this lamp definitely complements the retro vibe, adding a dash of nostalgic charm.
MCMULLIN & CO. Selby Candle Holder Pair
The flowing curves of these teak candle holders are like dancing silhouettes, floating around to the beat of Boogie Wonderland. They are beautiful sculptures that don't break the bank. They can create a little drama for your tabletop or a sophisticated, romantic dinner for two.
FRAMA Rivet Aluminium Shelf
I'm all about those floating shelves, like something straight out of a groovy 70s pad. They're practical, with a touch of that mod flair. And this FRAMA aluminium shelf is exactly that, but with at 2024 edge. It's the ultimate statement piece to showcase your favourite treasures.
BAZAA Vintage Blue Glass Bowl
Step into the funky 70s with the starburst Yves Klein-blue glass bowl, the perfect centrepiece for your coffee table, adding a vibrant touch of colour and a nostalgic decor moment to your living space.
