One thing is clear among design and interior lovers: the 70s were a world of bright, intense colors and shapes. This era was characterized by a new freedom and independence, which was also reflected in the interior design.
But what really defines 70s design? Where did the inspiration come from? Who were the main designers? And what characteristics do interior pieces from the 70s have?
What defines the design of the 70s?
The design of the 70s was characterized by freedom and the joy of experimentation. They wanted to break away from traditional styles and patterns and create something truly new and unprecedented. Some of the key features of 70s design:
- Colors : The colors in 70s interiors were vibrant and bold. Colors such as orange, brown, yellow and green were particularly popular.
- Patterns : Patterns were very popular in the 70s. Geometric patterns as well as floral and psychedelic motifs, which can actually be traced back to advances in mathematics, were particularly common.
- Materials : In the 70s there were many new materials used in interior design. Plastics such as acrylic and PVC were particularly popular because they were easy to clean and maintain. Wood and leather were also used extensively.
Image 1: Examples of the shapes, colors and materials used in the 1970s
Where did the inspiration come from?
Inspiration for 70s design came from many different sources. As is often the case, art played an important role. Artists like Salvador Dalí and Andy Warhol significantly influenced the design of the time and created a new perception among the population through their popularity. The hippie movement and the desire for freedom from the constraints of society and independence were also important sources of inspiration.
Image 2: Portraits of Salvador Dalí and Andy Wahrol
Who were the main designers?
The most important designers of the 70s included Verner Panton and Ettore Sottsass. Verner Panton was a Danish designer known for his futuristic and unconventional designs. For example, he designed the Panton Chair, which is now considered a design classic. Ettore Sottsass from Italy is best known for his work at the design firm Memphis. He designed both furniture and accessories that stood out with their vibrant colors and unusual shapes.
Image 3: The famous Phanton Chair and examples of Ettore Sottsass' designs
What characteristics do interior pieces from the 70s have?
If you are looking for interior pieces from the 70s, you should pay attention to the following features:
- Vibrant colors and strong tones, especially color contrasts
- Patterns, especially geometric and floral motifs
- Use of plastics and leather
At Tandlas we often come across the most beautiful designs from the 70s. Here are 3 of our absolute favorite pieces from the 1970s:
