We all remember the nostalgic feeling of snuggling under a handmade blanket or seeing the shag carpet that filled every corner of the house. With the right mix of personality-packed pieces, houses were turned into homes during the 70s. Reminiscing on those golden memories, here are fifteen things that made a 70s house feel like a home.
Crocheted Blankets and Afghans
In the 70s, it was almost a given that every bedroom or living room had a handmade afghan or crocheted blanket. They were pieces of art, often with zigzag or granny square patterns, but these added more than just warmth. Each blanket carried a sense of home, love, and dedication to a long-forgotten craft. Usually made by grandmothers or mothers, each blanket was a gift, turning everyday decor into something personal and deeply nostalgic.
Incense and Lava Lamps
Lava lamps and incense transformed rooms into comforting zones during the 70s. The earthy scents of patchouli, sandalwood, or nag champa filled homes, creating an atmosphere of calm that’s associated with inner peace and meditation. At the same time, lava lamps, with their slow-moving, colorful wax blobs, offered a hypnotic, ambient glow and were a nice accessory to have in any room. They were more than decorations. These items captured the 70s free-spirited, bohemian essence personified by many singers and actors of the time.
Waterbeds
First introduced in the late 60s, waterbeds became a bedroom trend in the 70s. Marketed as cutting-edge sleep technology, these water-filled mattresses molded to the body, offering comfort and supposed back support. Despite being tricky to set up and occasionally prone to leaks, they were considered a stylish, futuristic upgrade. They were usually designed with wooden frames and built-in heaters, making them great places to relax as well.
Cork Boards and Bulletin Boards
In the 70s, homes took on a personal touch with cork boards and bulletin boards. Commonly hung in kitchens, bedrooms, or home offices, they were covered in Polaroids, postcards, handwritten notes, and reminders. These boards showed everyday life, whether it was a child’s artwork, a to-do list, or a favorite quote. Beyond being useful, they also brought personality to a space that reflected the memories of family life.
Wall Phones with Long Cords
Wall-mounted rotary phones with extra-long cords were a fixture in many kitchens in the 70s. Their extended wire allowed people to stir a pot, tidy up, or even step into the hallway while staying deep in conversation. They were often in bright colors like avocado green, burnt orange, or mustard yellow. Many were set up close to notepads and recipe books. They became gathering points for family updates, gossip, and daily plans in the 70s.
Houseplants Galore
The 70s welcomed a houseplant craze that brought nature right into the home. Macramé plant hangers dangled from ceilings and windows, cradling spider plants, ferns, and trailing philodendrons, while oversized floor pots showed off rubber plants and ficus trees. This indoor trend showed a growing interest in the eco-consciousness of the era. Houseplants didn’t just make a room feel more alive—they cleaned the air, softened harsh interiors, and gave homes a more natural feeling.
TV Consoles and Rabbit Ears
Before sleek flat screens and handy remotes, the television was a bulky console. These hefty pieces were often complete with built-in speakers and ornate detailing. Families would gather around them for evening programs, adjusting the antennas, sometimes even with a bit of tinfoil, just to get a decent signal. The act of watching TV was a shared ritual, and the console itself became a focal point—a place of connection, comfort, and entertainment at the heart of the home.
Record Players and Vinyl Collections
In the 1970s, record players were treasured centerpieces for music lovers and were often surrounded by carefully curated vinyl collections. Whether housed in portable suitcase-style cases or built into elegant wooden consoles, turntables brought music to life. Each spin felt intentional, turning everyday moments into something memorable and atmospheric, making it a true staple of the 70s home.
Avocado Green & Harvest Gold Appliances
Kitchen decor in the 70s was anything but bland. Appliances in vibrant avocado green and harvest gold were highly popular, especially on refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers. These colors contrast with today’s sleek stainless steel, giving kitchens a more homely feel. Combined with wood cabinets and linoleum floors, they embodied the era’s colorful design, making cooking spaces lively, inviting, and unmistakably ’70s.
Bold Wallpaper Prints
Wallpaper in the 70s was all about making a bold impression. Walls were covered with everything from large floral prints and swirling geometric designs to shimmering metallic finishes and intricate paisley patterns. Often paired with coordinating drapes or upholstery, wallpaper set the tone for each space, reflecting a homeowner’s confident style and flair for trendy, fashion-forward decor that defined the 70s.
Bean Bag Chairs
Few pieces of furniture captured the relaxed vibe of the 70s like the bean bag chair. Made from soft fabric or vinyl and filled with tiny polystyrene beads, these comfy seats molded perfectly to anyone who sat down. Loved by both kids and adults, they were a popular choice for bedrooms or basements, offering a spot to lounge. Adding to their appeal, bean bags often came in bold, vibrant colors that matched the decade’s carefree style.
Sunken Living Rooms
Sunken living rooms were a hallmark of stylish ’70s interior design. These seating areas created a cozy, intimate space ideal for socializing. They were furnished with sectional sofas and plush carpeting and even framed by wood paneling or exposed brick walls. Designed for both relaxing and entertaining, these spaces became a signature feature in many homes, embodying the decade’s cool, inviting vibe.
Macramé Everything
Macramé was more than just an art in the 70s. It became a defining home decor trend. Through intricate knotting techniques, people made a variety of items, from plant hangers and wall hangings to curtains and lampshades. Each piece was handcrafted and added an artistic touch to interiors that often featured natural accents like beads or driftwood. Whether purchased or made at home, macramé gave spaces a cozy, personal, and lovingly crafted atmosphere.
Shag Carpeting
Thick, plush shag carpeting transformed rooms into warm, inviting spaces throughout the 1970s. Often found in bold colors, these carpets became a statement, and the soft texture created a relaxing feel. Despite being notoriously difficult to clean, shag carpet’s cozy feel and distinctive retro style made it a beloved fixture in many homes of the decade.
Wood Paneling
Wood-paneled walls were a craze in 70s basements and even living rooms. Usually crafted from faux wood veneer, this paneling brought a cabin-like vibe that complemented shag carpets and earthy color schemes perfectly. It was an affordable and simple way to add warmth and a grounded feeling to a space. While later generations might poke fun at it, back then, wood paneling was a comforting, popular design choice that made homes feel inviting.
