1970s bedrooms: interior trends of the disco decade

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Whatever you imagine when you think about the seventies, there’s no denying that this groovy time period has a strong visual identity – even when it comes to home décor.

In fact, we’ve seen a huge revival of 1970s interior design in recent years, with many features now mainstays within modern interiors.  

Ready to visit the ’70s? Climb aboard our time machine as we journey back to the disco decade to explore why it’s made such an impressive comeback and how easy it is to add some funky flair to your bedroom. Warning: may contain mirror balls…

• Earthy tones: There was a significant shift in hue from the rainbow shades that plastered the walls in the ‘60s. Instead, earthy tones dominated interiors. We still saw a lot of bold patterns in the ‘70s, but in rich browns, warm oranges, bright avocado and lime greens. Colours reflected the natural world, most likely influenced by a hippie-inspired respect for nature. Far out, man! 
• Natural materials: Textures were a big obsession, too. Natural materials such as rattan, wicker, bamboo and wood were all seen in ‘70s bedrooms, often mix-and-matching together to mirror nature and embrace the bohemian mindset. 
• Self-expression: It wasn’t all muted, though. The 1970s was an exciting time of cultural change and experimentation – and homeowners didn’t shy away from exploring personality in their décor. The result? A fusion of styles, combining the laid-back bohemian spirit with the shimmering explosion of disco glam, as well as influences from all over the world. 

Just as we’ve seen with flared jeans coming back into fashion and popular TV shows like Daisy Jones and The Six depicting the rock and roll vibes of the era, it’s apparent that 1970s interior design is back with a vengeance, too.  

Naturally, there’s a handful of design elements from the 1970s that may be a little too avant-garde for the typical household. (We’d advise you to check with your other half before installing that conversation pit in the living room…). But don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to capture the essence of this vibrant decade, whilst still futureproofing your home for years to come.   

Looking to update your pad with a little ‘70s flair? Here are our top tips on how to put a modern spin on this iconic era… 

Use warm, earthy colours  

Let’s begin with the foundations. To replicate a bedroom that’s straight out of the ‘70s, ditch the bland monochrome look of recent years and consider a colour scheme that creates a cosy ambience.

Embrace those warm, earthy tones that complement each other and don’t be afraid to use multiple shades simultaneously. For example, you could paint your walls in a rich terracotta, choose a carpet in a warm sand colour and accessorise with accents of golden honey and mustard.  

Go retro with your bed 

Try leaning into the decade’s passion for materials and choose a textured bed frame. Our House Beautiful Chloe Bed Frame is perfect for a retro look with a modern twist. Featuring curved edges, a walnut-tone plinth and a textured bouclé finish, this bed frame has a mid-century modern feel that screams seventies.  

To style, we suggest dressing with a bold bedspread in a geometric pattern or ditsy floral print, to really channel the groovy spirit. Layer up with a chunky knit blanket that matches your colour scheme and throw on some scatter cushions to tie everything together.  

Mix your materials 

The 1970s were all about using a plethora of textiles to bring depth and detail to your decor. In the bedroom, it wouldn’t be out of place to see rough rattan furniture, contrasting with soft velvet armchairs and macramé hangings.   

You could even concentrate this cocktail of materials on just your bed area. For instance, styling a wooden bed frame with soft fluffy throw cushions and a velvet bedspread for the ultimate sensory experience. 

Consider a cosy carpet 

Shag carpets were a hallmark of 1970s design. They looked amazing, added that much-loved texture, and were super soft underfoot. But on the flip side, they can be rather difficult to clean (and nobody wants to be putting in unnecessary overtime with the Henry Hoover…).  

As an alternative to a shag carpet, add a small sheepskin rug at the foot of the bed for just a touch of texture. They look great on wooden floorboards and are far easier to maintain. Win-win.

Add some retro lighting  

Never underestimate the power of good lighting to set the mood. The ‘70s were all about warm, inviting environments. Try adding some hanging light fittings above your bed to create an interesting focal point. Choose lamps that have unique, curved shapes and go for brushed brass or copper, rather than silver, to match the cosy colour palette.  

Discover more bedroom lighting ideas. 

Bring the outside in with house plants   

Indoor plants were a staple decorating detail in the 1970s. Most likely influenced by the hippies’ love for all living things, this appreciation for Mother Nature was showcased both outside the home and inside. Not only do house plants bring in natural beauty and add an easy pop of colour to your bedroom, but they also have air-purifying properties which can help aid sleep. We’ll take 10, please… 

From Pothos to Peace Lillies, Snake Plants to Jasmine, there are so many bedroom plant options for creating your own indoor jungle.  

Make a statement with some accessories    

They say it’s all in the details. Accessorise with a symbol of the time, like the iconic lava lamp. Though considered rather on the quirky side, these psychedelic creations were popularised in the 1970s – and for good reason. They’re pretty mesmerising. Just imagine drifting off to sleep as you watch those colourful blobs float up and down…  

More of a disco diva? There’s been a huge rise in disco balls being used as decoration in bedrooms over the last few years (just take a look at TikTok for proof), and we’re into it. From disco ball plant pots and mini garlands to full-sized ones hanging above your bed – whatever your preference, there’s a way to add some extra light, and let’s face it, pure joy into your bedroom.  

A new attitude

The 1970s marked the end of the carefree Swinging Sixties. But, the new decade was not ready to give up that freedom quite yet. Instead, the ‘70s birthed an era of youth culture that sought out that same sense of liberation and new ideals which embraced self-expression, curiosity and exploration through art, music, films, fashion and of course, design.   

Evolution of design

Much of the design trends we saw in the ‘70s were built on what had already begun in the ‘60s. Take the mid-century movement for example, these characteristic curves and rounded edges found on furniture continued to be popular throughout the 1970s.  

Boho chic

In the ’70s, the influence of the hippies continued to make an impact on the world. This can be seen clearly in the decade’s fascination with using natural materials. On a deeper level, there’s a distinct air of laid-back, relaxation in 1970s interior design, whether that’s through the mellow colours or the choice of comfortable furniture, which is epitomised by the bohemian way of life. Peace and love, man! 

Disco fever

Of course, the seventies were arguably the most notable for the birth of disco music. As mood-boosting rhythms and catchy lyrics burst onto the scene, so did a generation of pleasure-seeking, hedonistic individuals who weren’t afraid of experimenting. Disco glam was introduced into the home, both physically (in the form of mirror balls) and metaphorically: injecting a whole lotta’ fun into our interior design.  

• Use rich, earthy colours like browns, oranges and greens to create a warm and cosy ambience.  
• Make use of natural materials like wood, bamboo and wicker for your bed and bedroom furniture. 
• Don’t be afraid of bold patterns and geometric prints on your textiles.  
• Add some natural beauty and a pop of greenery with the use of indoor plants.  
• Experiment with multiple textures like rattan bedframes, wicker furniture, shag carpets and macramé wall hangings. More is more! 
• Embrace the ‘70s cultural influences and accessorise with staple pieces like funky disco balls, psychedelic lava lamps and wall art to express your personality.