Rediscovering 70s charm: Inspired renovations from retro kitchen designs
In a fresh take on the kitchen scene, 70s influences are screaming a comeback. While functional advancements have propelled kitchens forward, the radical vibrancy of the 70s aesthetic reigns supreme. From discoid allure to bohemian vibes, this era offered an array of eye-catching designs. Here's how to capture the essence of 70s kitchen magic in your home.
- Amplify Earthy Hues: maximize your interior by embracing rich colors, like brown, orange, and avocado green. This burst of energy, once the trademark of 70s kitchens, is still relevant today.[3] Estelle Bilson, author of '70s House', notes that the '70s kitchen market was filled with different fashion colors, especially as the concept of the fitted kitchen was already gaining traction.[4]
- Introduce Groovy Geometric Patterns: embrace curvaceous, psychedelic designs accentuated in abstract geometric wallpaper or tiles. For a subtle touch, opt for eye-catching splashbacks, or go bold with a playful wallpaper design, like Little Greene's Starflower.[3]
- Branch out with Wood Veneers: Affordable and versatile, wood veneers made a noticeable appearance in 70s kitchens. Walnut, redwood, rosewood, or oak were common options, offering an ostentatious touch of elegance.[3] In a mid-century South Carolina home, Ario Studio incorporated a mix of walnut and colorful custom cabinets, exposing plywood edges, to pay homage to the property's mid-century architecture.[4]
- Add Industrial Touches: the wonders of space exploration and technology captivated the 70s, found their way into interiors, and express themselves through sleek design, metallic finishes, and futuristic concepts. Incorporating industrial elements, like stainless steel counters or pendant lamps, evoke the 70s in a contemporary kitchen.[4]
- Install a Home Bar: as 70s dinner parties and entertaining at home gained popularity, a home bar became a sought-after addition. For a modern twist, design a bar suited to today's tastes, like Exactly Design's orange-tiled and walnut cabinet mini bar.[4]
- Liven up with 70s Glam: sequins, sparkle, and opulence characterized the 70s fashion and music scene. Infuse your kitchen with a touch of 70s chic through statement pendant lights, metallic surfaces, and plush velvets.[4]
- Embrace Boho Chic with Houseplants: the 70s emphasized freedom, creativity, and an affinity for natural materials. Hang an array of house plants in macramé pot hangers or invest in bohemian rattan or cane bar stools to inject a relaxed spirit into your kitchen.[4]
- Add Colorful Appliances: appliances like refrigerators and coffee makers adorned with colorful designs splashed 70s pride onto kitchen countertops. Revive this trend with appliances from iconic brands like KitchenAid and Smeg.[1][5]
- Further Enhance the Boho Spirit with Indoor Plants: Extend the 70s appreciation for natural materials by integrating a variety of plants throughout the space, be it in macramé hangers or bohemian rattan pot stands. This not only accentuates the era's laid-back vibe but also adds a touch of the 'fashion-and-beauty'-inspired garden charm prevalent during that time.
- Revive the 70s Lifestyle with a Home-and-Garden Focus: Just as the 70s kitchen scene drew inspiration from the broader 'home-and-garden' landscape, you can recreate this synergy by incorporating elements that reflect the era's love for vibrant colors, earthy textures, and custom pieces. This fusion of 'interior design' and 'lifestyle' elements will truly bring the 70s back into your kitchen.
