Shag Carpeting
Love it or hate it, shag carpet was the flooring choice of the ‘70s. Its thick, plush texture made living rooms feel cozy, and it came in every shade imaginable — from avocado green to burnt orange. Unfortunately, it was also a nightmare to clean and trap for dust. Today’s designers bring back shag in a lighter way, mostly with area rugs that add warmth and texture without swallowing the whole room.
Verdict: Bring it back… carefully. A chic shag rug? Yes. Wall-to-wall shag carpeting? Let’s leave that in the time capsule.
Beaded Curtains
Hanging between doorways or windows, beaded curtains gave homes an artsy, boho vibe. They added movement, light, and a playful personality — but also made privacy a little tricky. While most of us won’t ditch doors entirely, modern versions made of wood, crystals, or textiles can be stylish statement pieces.
Verdict: Bring it back in moderation. Works beautifully as an accent or divider, but maybe not as your main “front door.”
Conversation Pits
Sunken living rooms with built-in seating were designed for one thing: connection. Families and friends could gather, lounge, and talk face-to-face in these cozy pits. Though few new homes are built with them, designers are reviving the idea through sectional sofas, lowered nooks, and tiered seating.
Verdict: Yes, please. The world could use more spaces designed purely for connection.
Avocado Green Everything
Avocado green was practically the official color of the 1970s kitchen — fridges, ovens, even countertops wore this earthy shade. It captured the decade’s obsession with “bringing the outdoors in.” Today, avocado tones are sneaking back into kitchens and bathrooms as cabinetry, tiles, and accent décor, often paired with warm woods and brass.
Verdict: We are mixed, here, but we voted – Surprisingly, yes. In small doses, avocado green feels fresh and earthy — just skip the matching fridge-stove-sink combo.
Macramé Wall Hangings
No ‘70s home was complete without macramé — whether it was a wall hanging, plant holder, or fringed decoration. Handmade and textural, macramé added a cozy, DIY touch. Today, it’s back in style, blending beautifully with minimalist spaces and muted palettes.
Verdict: Definitely bring it back. It adds warmth without overpowering.
Rattan and Wicker Furniture
Lightweight, durable, and breezy, rattan and wicker furniture brought natural charm to the ‘70s. Wicker chairs, rattan side tables, and woven accents fit perfectly in boho interiors. Now, they’re back — but sleeker, sturdier, and more versatile, showing up in patios, living rooms, and even high-end designs.
Verdict: Yes! This one aged well and works almost anywhere.
Wood Paneling
There was a time when wood paneling covered every wall in sight. While that can feel a little cave-like today, designers are reimagining paneling with lighter woods, vertical slats, and accent walls. It brings warmth, texture, and a nod to mid-century cool without feeling dated.
Verdict: Maybe, but updated. Think accent walls or Scandinavian-inspired panels, not full dark-paneled basements.
Hanging Chairs
Egg-shaped or basket-style hanging chairs were the ultimate ‘70s showstopper. They made any space feel dreamy, playful, and just a little rebellious. Today, they’re trending again in patios, playrooms, and boho-chic interiors. Just make sure they’re installed safely (something the ‘70s may not have prioritized).
Verdict: Absolutely bring it back. Fun, functional, and timeless — who doesn’t love swinging in style?
The 1970s gave us bold design choices that weren’t afraid to mix comfort with personality. Some, like rattan and macramé, have already made a chic comeback. Others — looking at you, wall-to-wall shag — might be best admired in vintage photos. Still, whether you’re a fan of avocado green or swoon for a hanging chair, there’s no denying the ‘70s knew how to make a statement.
So, which design trends would you bring back in your own home — and which should stay in the disco era?
