Avocado green, harvest gold, rust, brown. The “it” colors that defined 1970s interiors are popping up again in a big way. They’re showing up on kitchen cabinets, velvet sofas, tiled backsplashes, and even ceilings. It’s easy to see why: ’70s design strikes that rare balance between grounded and free-spirited, two things many people want to feel at home.
Beyond bold florals and the disco balls, the 1970s leaned into natural materials, earthy color stories, and a cozy kind of maximalism design. Think shag rugs, wood-paneled walls,
lots
of houseplants, and rooms that felt collected, not overly styled or curated.
So what defines a ’70s color palette, and how do you make it work today? I asked a few experts to weigh in.
1970s Color Palette Basics
If you’re thinking about bringing a ’70s palette into your home, it’s helpful to start with the overall vibe. Personally, I think the best color palettes start with a feeling – not a formula – and designer
James Yarosh
agrees. “Seventies design is less about a strict palette of earth tones and more about creating a feeling,” he says. “The essence of the ’70s is a mellow, laid-back energy that invites relaxation.”
That mellow feeling is evident in the colors and textures of the era, with nothing too stark or high-gloss. “Details like pinch-pleated drapes, wood paneling, and folded blankets recall the cozy aesthetic of old Polaroids and family scrapbooks. That’s the magic of the ’70s: a design language that feels familiar, emotional, and somewhat intangible,” Yarosh says.
What Colors Are Considered ’70s?
Particular hues immediately bring to mind the atmosphere of this era, yet they offer a broader spectrum than one might assume. “The shades from the 1970s for me conjure up images of rich natural tones such as sienna, mahogany, goldenrod, and terracotta, highlighted with flashes of slate blue and moss-green,” notes the designer.
Kathy Kuo
says.
Here’s a brief overview of the favored colors from that time period:
- Avocado Green
- Harvest Gold
- Burnt Orange
- Teal
- Mustard Yellow
- Chocolate Brown
- Olive Green
- Deep Plum
- Dusty Rose
- Maroon
What to Steer Clear Of in Designs Inspired by the ’70s
Based around richer hues, a ’70s color scheme might not mesh well with specific shades. Bright pastels, strong contrasts, along with cool grays or pristine whites may appear incongruous within a ’70s-themed setting. As noted by Gerri Chmiel, who serves as a senior design manager at
Formica
, also cautions against taking things too literally.
“If you’re considering avocado green, avoid going for the shag carpet look. Opt instead for something with a sleeker, lower pile design.” The aim here isn’t to recreate a scene from an old TV show (tempting though it may be) — rather, it’s about taking inspiration from past trends and adapting them to fit your current way of life.
Samples of Color Schemes from the 1970s
There are numerous methods to incorporate a ’70s color scheme without seeming overly kitschy. According to Yarosh, this begins with capturing an emotional essence. When he envisions ’70s-style decor, he thinks of relaxation and mental serenity—themes which were frequently pushed to joyful limits during that era. In his view, the seventies revolved around personal expression.
Here are some practical instances of how to implement this successfully.
Incorporate Natural Wood and Metal Elements
This cozy cabin
captures the ’70s aesthetic by combining walls in earthy tones with organic textures. The dark walnut pieces stand out against softer oak seating, and accents of brass and chrome in lighting fixtures and tables enhance the decor without overwhelming the color scheme.
Lean Into Pattern Play
In this
Scottsdale home
Retro stripes and florals coexist peacefully. The large-scale designs like those seen on the sofa, café curtains, and bedroom rug are complemented by narrower stripes and sleek architectural lines. This exemplifies well-executed ’70s maximalism.
Don’t Forget About Textiles
The velvet armchairs, a bouclé ottoman, and shimmering throw cushions add softness and depth to Yarosh’s NYC endeavor. This blend of materials creates a touchable and welcoming atmosphere—a sophisticated composition characteristic of the era.
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