The 1970s is a decade known for its bold style and eclectic energy, making it one of the most iconic periods for interior design. From the bright, vibrant colors to unique textures, the 70s bathroom aesthetic offers a nostalgic charm that’s making a major comeback in modern homes. Whether you’re designing a new bathroom or updating an existing one, incorporating these groovy, retro elements can transform your space into a time capsule that’s as functional as it is stylish.
In this guide, we’re exploring 19 essential 70s bathroom aesthetic ideas that will help you add a funky, vintage twist to your space. Each idea brings a piece of history while offering timeless style. Let’s dive into the first 10!
1. Vibrant Color Palettes
One of the most defining features of 70s bathroom design is its bold and vibrant color palette. The era embraced a range of saturated hues, from deep oranges to avocado greens, mustard yellows, and rusty browns. These colors were often paired together in striking ways, creating a playful and energetic vibe.
If you’re looking to incorporate this into your bathroom, start with walls or tile in bold tones. Avocado green or a burnt orange tile works beautifully for floors or backsplashes, creating a retro feel that doesn’t overpower the space. For a more modern update, use these colors as accent pieces through towels, shower curtains, or even small accessories like soap dishes and toothbrush holders.
To balance out the intensity, incorporate neutral tones, such as off-white or beige, to tone down the vibrant hues. This keeps the design grounded and sophisticated while still embracing the bold 70s aesthetic.
2. Shag Carpet Floors
Although it may sound impractical, shag carpet floors were a signature trend in 70s bathrooms. The soft texture of shag carpeting added warmth and comfort to the hard surfaces typical of bathrooms, like tile and marble. While it’s not a practical option for every home, you can still evoke the shaggy vibe with modern alternatives.
Consider using shag rugs to replicate the look, particularly around the sink or bathtub. A plush, shag rug in a retro color—like mustard yellow or olive green—can instantly evoke a 70s bathroom atmosphere without the hassle of cleaning carpet floors.
If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for wall-to-wall vinyl flooring with a shag-inspired pattern. The texture will give your bathroom that cozy, retro feel, while the material is much easier to clean and maintain.
3. Funky Wallpaper Prints
Wallpapers were a big deal in the 1970s, and funky prints were a staple of bathroom decor. Think geometric patterns, floral prints, or even psychedelic designs. The bold nature of these wallpapers created dramatic focal points, making the bathroom feel alive with color and texture.
For your modern 70s-inspired bathroom, you can embrace this trend with wallpaper featuring funky patterns, such as large florals or circular motifs. Use wallpaper on one feature wall or as an accent behind the mirror or vanity to create a stunning backdrop. If you prefer to keep things a bit more toned down, you can opt for a retro-inspired print in a muted color palette, like tan, coral, or teal, to give a nod to the era without overwhelming the space.
4. Wood Paneling
Wood paneling was another signature element in 70s bathrooms. This feature gave bathrooms a natural, rustic charm and a warm, cozy feel. In the 70s, wood paneling was often applied to lower walls or as wainscoting, but it could also be used to cover entire bathroom walls.
To modernize this look, consider using wood-look tiles or paneling in a natural or stained finish. The texture and visual depth of the wood add warmth to a bathroom, especially when combined with white or neutral-colored tiles. For a more contemporary twist, opt for light-colored woods like oak or birch to keep the space bright and airy while still capturing the retro vibe.
5. Round Mirrors
Round mirrors were a quintessential feature of 70s bathrooms. These mirrors, often framed with chrome or gold accents, served as stylish focal points. The round shape helped soften the angular lines of typical bathroom fixtures and tiles, bringing a more organic flow to the room.
Incorporating a round mirror into your modern 70s bathroom is an easy way to capture the spirit of the era. Choose one with a retro-inspired metal frame, either in brushed gold, chrome, or even black for a sleek update. The mirror can serve as the centerpiece of your bathroom, especially when paired with vintage-style lighting and other period-inspired elements.
6. Bold Tile Patterns
The 1970s was the decade that introduced some of the most iconic tile patterns in bathroom design. One popular trend was the use of large, square tiles with contrasting grout lines, which created a bold, graphic look. Another favorite was the retro hexagon tiles, often found in neutral or earthy tones, providing both a vintage and contemporary feel.
Incorporate this style by using large, square tiles with contrasting grout in bold colors like orange, brown, or olive green. Alternatively, hexagonal tiles in a variety of shades can create a timeless look with a touch of nostalgia. For a more subtle approach, use these patterns as accents around the shower or tub, while keeping the rest of the room more neutral.
7. Brass Fixtures
Brass was the metal of choice during the 1970s, giving bathrooms a vintage yet elegant vibe. From faucets to towel bars and showerheads, brass fixtures were everywhere. The warm tones of brass added a sense of luxury and paired beautifully with the earthy tones that defined 70s bathrooms.
To bring this style back into your modern bathroom, consider replacing your current hardware with brass fixtures. A brass faucet, showerhead, or even a towel rack can make a subtle but impactful statement. You can balance the warmth of the brass with other elements, such as glass tiles or marble countertops, to keep the space looking fresh and contemporary.
8. Sunken Bathtubs
Sunken bathtubs, which were a hallmark of luxurious 70s bathrooms, were designed to create a relaxing and spa-like experience. These tubs were often positioned below the level of the bathroom floor, providing an elevated, opulent feel.
While sunken tubs aren’t the most common feature today due to space and safety concerns, you can still capture the essence of this idea with freestanding tubs or sunken shower designs. If you’re remodeling or creating a new bathroom, consider a deep, freestanding tub placed in the center of the room to create a similar focal point. Combine it with bold tiles and funky decor to fully embrace the 70s aesthetic.
9. Colored Sinks
In the 1970s, bathrooms saw an explosion of colorful sinks. Gone were the days of plain porcelain white; vibrant colors like turquoise, mustard yellow, and avocado green dominated bathroom vanities. These sinks added personality and flair to the space, setting the tone for the entire room.
For a modern twist on this trend, you can find sinks in fun, bold colors or unique materials like terrazzo or concrete. A brightly colored sink paired with neutral-colored walls can create a stunning focal point in your bathroom. Alternatively, retro-inspired sinks with clean lines and vibrant hues can provide the perfect touch of 70s charm.
10. Retro Lighting Fixtures
Lighting fixtures in the 70s weren’t just functional; they were a statement piece. Large, sculptural pendant lights, funky wall sconces, and fluorescent tube lights were all popular choices. These lighting options added a playful and dynamic touch to the space while ensuring adequate light in the bathroom.
To recreate this look, look for lighting fixtures with bold, geometric shapes or those that feature materials like frosted glass or shiny metal. A statement chandelier or a large, spherical pendant light over the bathtub or sink can bring in that 70s flair, while also giving the space a modern, updated feel.
11. Terra Cotta Tiles
Terra cotta tiles were another hallmark of 70s bathroom design, offering a rustic yet chic vibe to the space. These earthy, reddish-brown tiles were often used for flooring and wall accents, adding warmth and texture to the room. The natural look of terra cotta paired beautifully with the bold colors of the era and enhanced the retro feel of the space.
To modernize the look, you can incorporate terra cotta tiles in your bathroom’s flooring or backsplash. Consider pairing them with neutral-colored walls and accents to prevent the space from feeling too dark or heavy. The natural warmth of terra cotta works well with other vintage elements like brass fixtures or natural wood, keeping the space cozy and inviting.
12. Macramé Decor
Macramé was all the rage in the 70s, and it found its way into bathrooms in various forms. Whether it was a wall hanging, shower curtain tiebacks, or even plant holders, macramé added texture and a bohemian flair to the bathroom. Its woven designs brought an organic touch to an otherwise hard-surfaced room.
To bring this look into your modern bathroom, look for macramé accessories, such as hanging towel racks, plant holders, or even a macramé shower curtain. These boho-chic elements are a great way to add a personal and relaxed vibe while channeling the 70s aesthetic. For a more contemporary twist, opt for macramé in neutral tones, such as white or beige, to blend seamlessly with a variety of color palettes.
13. Sunburst Mirrors
The 70s were the golden age of sunburst mirrors, a striking design that echoed the bold shapes and colors of the era. These mirrors, with their radiating, symmetrical lines, added a dramatic flair to any room and were often the centerpiece of a retro bathroom. Whether in brass, chrome, or wood, the sunburst mirror was a timeless addition to 70s decor.
To recreate this iconic look in your bathroom, choose a sunburst mirror that matches the overall color scheme and aesthetic of your space. A gold or brass-framed mirror can evoke the glam of the 70s, while a wooden version might offer a more rustic, earthy feel. This simple yet bold design can elevate your bathroom with a touch of mid-century modern influence.
14. Modular Bathroom Furniture
Modular furniture was a key feature of 70s bathroom design, as the era embraced flexibility and functionality. Vanity units, storage cabinets, and shelving systems often had a clean, boxy design that could be easily rearranged or customized. This modular approach allowed homeowners to create practical and personalized bathroom layouts, making the space feel more like an extension of their home.
For your modern 70s-inspired bathroom, look for modular vanities or shelving units that offer sleek lines and customizable features. The ability to adjust storage space to fit your needs is a practical solution for bathrooms of all sizes. Choose pieces with retro finishes, such as wood laminate or glossy white, for an authentic look, while incorporating modern materials for a contemporary twist.
15. Colorful Bathtubs
In the 1970s, bathtubs weren’t just functional—they were bold statements. While white was still popular, colored bathtubs in hues like turquoise, yellow, and orange became a major design trend. These tubs provided a pop of color that made the bathroom feel unique and fun.
To bring this idea into the 21st century, consider installing a vintage-inspired tub in a bright color, or, for a modern update, opt for a statement-colored freestanding tub in bold hues like teal or red. If you’re hesitant to go with a fully colored tub, you can introduce color through smaller accents, such as bath mats or a bold shower curtain, to evoke the same energy.
16. Retro Tile Borders
Tile borders were an essential design element in 70s bathrooms, often used to break up the monotony of solid-color walls and floors. These borders were typically in contrasting colors or playful patterns, adding depth and character to the space. Popular border styles included checkerboard patterns, floral designs, and even stripes.
You can reintroduce tile borders into your bathroom design by using playful, retro-inspired patterns. Consider adding a checkerboard or floral border around the bathtub, vanity, or shower to create a dynamic and personalized space. To keep the look modern, choose tiles in fresh colors like mint green or coral, and pair them with neutral walls or tiles for a balanced aesthetic.
17. Greenery and Plants
The 70s were all about bringing the outdoors in, and what better way to do that than with an abundance of houseplants? Bathrooms were often adorned with lush, green plants that added a natural, earthy element to the room. The vibrant foliage not only added to the retro aesthetic but also helped purify the air.
To embrace this trend in your bathroom, add a variety of plants, such as ferns, spider plants, or pothos, to create a lush, tropical feel. Consider using macramé plant hangers for a more authentic 70s look or place plants in vintage-inspired planters for a retro touch. Incorporating greenery will not only enhance your bathroom’s style but also promote a calm and serene atmosphere.
18. Funky Shower Curtains
Shower curtains were another opportunity to inject bold color and pattern into the 70s bathroom. Often featuring graphic prints, large florals, or geometric shapes, shower curtains served as a striking focal point in the bathroom design. The idea was to make a statement with something as simple as a shower curtain.
Today, you can easily find shower curtains that evoke the spirit of the 70s. Look for those with bold, geometric patterns or vibrant hues like mustard yellow, burnt orange, or teal. These eye-catching designs can bring the 70s aesthetic to life while offering a fresh, modern twist on the era’s iconic style.
19. Dual-Sink Vanities
The 70s were all about making bathrooms more functional and luxurious, and one of the ways to achieve this was by incorporating dual-sink vanities. Having two sinks in a bathroom allowed couples or families to get ready in the morning without fighting for mirror time, making the bathroom feel more like a spacious retreat.
For your modern 70s-inspired bathroom, consider installing a dual-sink vanity to combine both style and functionality. Look for a vintage-inspired unit with wood paneling or a sleek, minimalist design that captures the best of both worlds. Pair it with retro-inspired mirrors and fixtures to complete the look.
Conclusion
The 70s bathroom aesthetic is all about vibrant color, bold patterns, and unique design elements that celebrate a carefree, funky attitude. From the bold tiles and colorful sinks to the soft textures of shag rugs and macramé decor, the 70s offers a wealth of ideas to bring retro charm into your modern bathroom.
By blending these classic elements with modern updates, you can create a space that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you embrace the vibrant colors, the natural materials, or the iconic fixtures of the era, the 70s bathroom aesthetic offers endless possibilities for transforming your bathroom into a stylish retreat. So why not take a step back in time and infuse your bathroom with a little retro magic? The 70s are back, and they’re here to stay!
