The 1970s is the most influential decade for interior design (2024)

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The 1970s is the most influential decade for interior design? ›

The 1970s topped the list, followed by 1960s, 1980s, 1950s and 1990s. Catharina Björkman, style expert at Contura, calls it the 70s revival, rooted in nostalgia with earthy tones, patterned wallpaper, geometric shapes and the reintroduction of materials like velvet, bamboo and rattan.

1970s interior design was characterized by a distinctive blend of styles and influences that reflected the cultural shifts and trends of the era. The 1970s saw revivals of earlier architectural and interior design styles like mid-century modernism, Bauhaus, and French provincial–making many spaces quite eclectic.

Exuberant psychedelic prints, vibrant colors and sumptuous velvets are hallmarks of '70s decor. Contrary to the minimalism that has dominated our interiors for years, some elements of the past are now returning to our homes. The latest launches from our favorite brands showcase the return of the '70s decor.

Dubbed as 'retro chic', 70s decor is an interior trend that focuses on vintage elements, warm, bold colours and funky patterns. From vibrant velvet sofas to psychedelic wall art, 70s decor is rooted in bringing a healthy dose of fun and vigour to a space.

In the United States, the National Society of Interior Designers began in 1957, and at about that time it was determined that professional status for interior design is achieved through education and professional gatekeeping organizations. Interior design has thus become an accepted profession.

The Eclectic 1970s: Bohemian and Disco Vibes

It was a decade of self-expression, freedom, and individuality. Embrace the bohemian spirit and disco fever of the era through your interior design choices. Earthy tones and rich jewel hues dominated the color palette, creating warm and inviting spaces.

The early 1970s' fashions were a continuation of the hippie look from the late 1960s. A West German school girl with Schultüte in 1970, with a 'hippyish' outfit on.

'Following Taylor Swift's new album, Midnights, we are noticing a revival of the popular 70s interior aesthetic. This decor style is relaxed and fun, evocative of the free-spiritedness and optimism of the 70s era,' says Matilda. 'Warmth emanates from a 70s-inspired home, largely through its colour scheme.

Instead, homes across the South are embracing modern takes on '70s styles. While designer Niki McNeill Brown theorizes that the return of the disco era at home may be due to homeowners' craving for color, designer Jean Liu believes that this trend is inspired by nostalgia.

Today mid-century modern is often used to refer to the period from the early 1930s through the mid-1970s.

What were 4 fashion styles of the 1970s? ›

From business attire like wrap dresses and suiting separates to bell bottoms and jumpsuits, iconic '70s outfits span the full spectrum — from downhome Daisy Dukes to disco fever. During this era, fashion and beauty trends were, in a word, fabulous.

Art Deco 1920's to 1960

This movement features an intoxicating blend of early 20th century design styles including Constructivism, Cubism, Modernism, Bauhaus, Art Nouveau, and Futurism. One of the most well-known interior design styles, Art Deco represented modernity, everyday glamor, and elegance.

The workforce of Interior designers in 2021 was 87,310 people, with 83.9% woman, and 16.1% men. The average age of male Interior designers in the workforce is 47 and of female Interior designers is 42.3, and the most common race/ethnicity for Interior designers is White.

Elsie de Wolfe became the first Interior Decorator to be given a design “commission.” In 1913, Elsie de Wolfe published the first interior design book, “The House in Good Taste.” Dorothy Draper was the first documented commercial Interior Decorator, establishing her design firm in 1923.

70s style icon 1: Rattan

Natural textures such as rattan has been a big hit in interiors, thanks to its neutral tones. For the interior, think rattan light fittings, chairs, chest of drawers and storage baskets.

Examples of Late Modernism (including Glass Skin architecture), Brutalism, New Formalism, and Late Expressionism—in some cases, designed in the 1960s and not completed until the following decade—were built well into the 1970s.

Most style influences from the last century came from art, movies, and architecture. The grandeur of the 1920s fostered the use of Art Deco. Meanwhile, due to wartime shortages, the 1930s and 1940s saw the rise of minimalism. Following were the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s where we saw a trend reversal.

In summary, a designer's work on interior design is influenced by a range of factors, including personal style, cultural heritage, global trends, nature, the environment, architectural history, and client needs. By drawing on these influences, designers can create aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces.