15 Living Room Décor Trends That Could Only Exist In The ’70s

Ah, the ’70s—a gloriously outrageous time when living rooms weren’t just rooms, they were experiences.

You didn’t just walk into Aunt Carol’s house—you time-traveled into an avocado-colored vortex of shag carpet, velvet everything, and wood paneling so dark it might’ve been a portal to Narnia. The motto was clear: if it doesn’t clash, is it even décor?

Subtlety packed its bags and peaced out, making room for lava lamps, beaded curtains, and sunken conversation pits where secrets were spilled and Jell-O salads were served. Every surface had a texture, every corner had a vibe, and every visitor left slightly more confused (but intrigued).

It was the golden era of more is more, where a living room could double as a disco lounge, a meditation den, and a home for five spider plants.

So throw on your fringe vest, cue up some ABBA, and let’s dive headfirst into 15 fabulously funky trends that defined a groovy generation.

1. Wall-to-Wall Shag Carpet

Walking into a room with wall-to-wall shag carpet was like entering a fluffy, colorful dimension where your feet disappeared with every step.

In the ’70s, subtlety was thrown out the window, and this carpet trend was the epitome of that mindset. Imagine avocado green, burnt orange, or mustard yellow carpeting taking over every inch of floor space. Not only was it a statement piece, but it also offered the perfect hiding spot for any dropped snack.

I can remember the sheer delight of sinking my toes into my Aunt Carol’s shag carpet, feeling like I was wading through a sea of plushness. The deeper the pile, the better, and cleaning was a whole other adventure—trust me. These carpets were more than just floor coverings; they were a lifestyle choice, an ode to comfort, and a bold declaration that more is definitely more.

2. Sunken Conversation Pits

Why settle for sitting at the same level when you could descend into a cozy, vinyl-lined chat cave? Sunken conversation pits were the architectural equivalent of stepping into a different universe—a universe where you and your fondue-loving friends could engage in deep discussions about disco and bell-bottoms.

These pits were often lined with plush vinyl seating, making them both a retro decor statement and the perfect place to spill your secrets without spilling your drink. I remember attending family gatherings where the kids were banished to the conversation pit, turning it into a makeshift playpen. It was like having your own private island in the middle of the living room.

While today’s homes might lack such eccentric features, the memory of those sunken spaces still brings a smile to my face, and sometimes a longing for a place to sink into after a long day.

3. Macramé Madness

Macramé was the ’70s equivalent of the Swiss Army Knife for home décor—if it could be knotted, it was décor. Plant hangers, wall art, room dividers—macramé was everywhere, weaving its way into the hearts and homes of those who craved a bohemian vibe before boho was even a thing.

The intricate knotting patterns added texture and a hand-crafted feel to any space, making every piece unique. My parents had a macramé owl that hung proudly in our living room, and I can still picture its beady little eyes watching over us.

Whether you were a seasoned macramé artist or just dabbled in a few knots, it was a craft that connected generations, sharing the love for DIY and natural materials. And let’s be honest, there’s something oddly satisfying about hanging your plants in a web of knots, creating a mini jungle in your living room.

4. Psychedelic Wallpaper

If you ever wanted to feel like you were inside a kaleidoscope, psychedelic wallpaper was the perfect choice. These bold, swirling patterns in eye-popping colors were more than just a design statement—they were an experience.

I can recall visiting my friend’s house, where the living room walls were a mesmerizing blend of purples, oranges, and greens, making you question whether you were sober or just deeply inside a lava lamp.

This wallpaper wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about creating an atmosphere. Whether you were hosting a party or just chilling with a good book, the wallpaper set the stage for whatever vibe you wanted to channel.

It’s hard not to smile when I think about those walls of wonder, knowing that each swirl and color clash was part of what made the ’70s so fabulously unforgettable.

5. Velvet Everything

In the ’70s, if it wasn’t shag, it was velvet. Sofas, chairs, pillows—everything was draped in this luxurious fabric, turning living rooms into plush, tactile wonderlands. Velvet added a touch of glamour and comfort that was hard to resist.

I remember my grandmother’s living room, where the couch was so sumptuously soft it felt like sitting on a cloud. The bonus points came if the color was burnt sienna or emerald green, creating a tapestry of rich hues.

Velvet was more than just a fabric; it was an experience, inviting you to touch and feel its softness. This trend was about embracing opulence in everyday life, making every moment spent lounging feel like a royal affair.

Even today, whenever I see a velvet piece, I can’t help but be transported back to those rich interiors filled with warmth and style.

6. Color Palette: Avocado, Harvest Gold, and Rust

The ’70s weren’t just a time of wild patterns—they also had a specific color palette that ruled the living room. Avocado green, harvest gold, and rust were the unholy trinity that adorned everything from appliances to upholstery.

I can still hear my mother’s voice as she matched curtains to the carpet, making sure everything was perfectly coordinated in these dominant shades. Each color held its own charm—avocado green was bold, harvest gold was warm, and rust added an earthy touch.

These colors could transform any space into a cozy haven, embracing the essence of the decade without apology. It’s funny how looking back, these bold choices seem daring and audacious, but at the time, it was just the norm.

While today’s trends lean toward more subdued tones, there’s a nostalgic beauty in those vibrant hues that captured the spirit of the ’70s so perfectly.

7. Beaded Doorways

Why walk through a boring ol’ door when you could gently rustle through hanging beads like a mystical traveler? Beaded doorways were the ultimate way to add a touch of whimsy and movement to any living space.

I remember the satisfying clinking sound as I pushed through the beads in my friend’s house, feeling like I was entering a secret world. These doorways weren’t just functional; they were a statement, an invitation to let your imagination run wild.

The beads came in all colors and patterns, allowing for a personalized touch that could brighten any entryway. It was a playful way to break up spaces while adding a layer of texture and color.

Even now, when I see beaded door decor in a shop, I can’t resist the temptation to run my fingers through them, remembering the magic they brought to our youthful escapades.

8. Lucite Furniture

Lucite furniture was the ’70s way of saying, “I’m modern, and I could crack at any moment!” These clear acrylic chairs and coffee tables created an illusion of space, making even the smallest room feel open and airy.

I can still picture my cousin’s living room, where the Lucite pieces added a futuristic flair, almost as if you were sitting on invisible clouds. While they looked delicate, they were surprisingly resilient, holding up to both toddlers and disco parties.

Despite their transparency, these pieces were anything but subtle, becoming the centerpieces of any room they graced. They offered a sleek contrast to the more textured elements of ’70s decor, like shag and velvet.

Today, Lucite has made a comeback, but nothing compares to the original pieces that once graced our living rooms, embodying an era where innovation met style head-on.

9. Massive Wood Console TVs

Half entertainment center, half furniture, massive wood console TVs were the focal point of any ’70s living room. These behemoths were built like tanks and served multiple purposes—television stand, plant holder, and family photo shrine.

I recall family gatherings where the console TV was the center of attention, with everyone huddled around to watch the latest episode of their favorite show. It was more than just a screen; it was a piece of furniture that commanded respect.

The wood finish added a touch of elegance, while the sheer size made it a statement piece in any home. The console was often topped with decorative items, making it a central hub of living room activity.

Reflecting on those days, I can’t help but smile at the memory of those giant TVs that brought families together, long before flat screens and streaming services took over our living spaces.

10. Towering Stereo Systems

In the ’70s, music wasn’t just heard; it was experienced. Towering stereo systems were the backbone of any party, with speakers taller than toddlers and turntables with more knobs than a spaceship.

I fondly remember my dad’s pride and joy—the stereo system that took up half the living room. It was a time when vinyl collections were sacred, each record lovingly handled and played with reverence.

The sound quality was unmatched, and the stereo’s presence was both a visual and auditory statement. The towering speakers made sure every corner of the house was filled with the grooves of Fleetwood Mac or the beat of the Bee Gees.

Though technology has moved on, the nostalgia of those stereo systems remains, a reminder of when music brought people together in a way that was both tangible and deeply personal.

11. Spinning Egg Chairs & Papasan Chairs

For those who wanted to feel like a stylish astronaut or a cozy caterpillar, spinning egg chairs and Papasan chairs were the go-to choices. These unique seating options added a playful element to any living room.

I can still recall the sheer joy of twirling around in an egg chair, feeling like I was blasting off into a world of comfort and style. The Papasan chair provided a different kind of comfort—a wide, embracing bowl that seemed to hug you as you sank in.

Both options offered a distinct aesthetic, with the egg chair’s sleek design and the Papasan’s bohemian vibe. Whether you were reading a book or just daydreaming, these chairs offered a perfect retreat from the chaos of everyday life.

Even now, there’s something irresistible about the quirky charm of these seats that defined a decade of daring decor choices.

12. Dried Flower & Wheat Arrangements

In a world without Pinterest, dried flower and wheat arrangements were all the rage. People proudly displayed these bundles of dead stuff, adding rustic charm to their living spaces.

I remember my mother’s fascination with these arrangements, spending hours picking the perfect combination to showcase in our living room. It was a simpler time when the natural beauty of dried plants was all you needed to add a touch of nature indoors.

These displays often found a home in tall, narrow ceramic vases, becoming a focal point for conversations about decor and design. Though they may seem quaint today, there’s something endearing about the effort put into creating these arrangements.

Looking back, it’s a reminder that sometimes, simplicity speaks volumes, and the art of decorating is about finding beauty in the everyday, even if it’s just a handful of dried wheat.

13. Wood Paneling

Every wall in the ’70s seemed to need to look like the inside of a cabin, thanks to the ubiquitous wood paneling. This trend added warmth and a rustic feel to living spaces, making them cozier and more inviting.

I vividly remember the wood-paneled walls of my childhood home, which my parents believed added a touch of sophistication to our living room. Bonus points if there was a faux brick fireplace nearby, completing the cabin vibe.

Wood paneling was more than just a decor choice; it was a lifestyle, creating a sense of continuity and grounding in the home. It blended seamlessly with other ’70s trends, from shag carpet to velvet furnishings.

While styles have shifted since then, the nostalgia of wood paneling remains, a symbol of an era where comfort and style went hand in hand, wrapped in a warm wooden embrace.

14. Lava Lamps & Mood Lighting

No ’70s living room was complete without a lava lamp or some form of mood lighting. These iconic pieces were the mainstay for vibing out to Fleetwood Mac, casting a groovy, hypnotic glow over the entire room.

I can still see the mesmerizing dance of the lava lamp in my older cousin’s room, its colors shifting and changing, offering a soothing backdrop to whatever was happening in the background.

Mood lighting was about setting the right atmosphere, whether for a party or a quiet evening in. It was about creating a space that felt both inviting and a little mysterious.

Though the technology has evolved, the charm of lava lamps remains, a reminder of a time when lighting was as much about emotion as it was about illumination. Every bubble and glow was a testament to the creativity and spirit of the ’70s.

15. Modular Sofas & Sectionals

Modular sofas and sectionals were the ultimate in customizable comfort, offering endless arrangements that could adapt to any living situation. These pieces often came in colors that could blind, ensuring they were as much a statement piece as they were functional.

I remember the fun of rearranging our family room’s sectional, each seat telling a different story and probably hiding a few lost treasures along the way. The beauty of modular furniture was its flexibility, allowing for creativity in designing your perfect lounging area.

Whether hosting a party or snuggling up for movie night, these sofas provided the perfect backdrop for any occasion. They were about embracing individuality, with every configuration offering a new perspective on comfort.

Today, while modular designs have evolved, the spirit of those vibrant sectionals lives on, a testament to an era where more was definitely more and comfort was king.