Remember the days of “avocado green” and “harvest gold”? If you’re old enough to recall the 1970s, these colors likely dominated your surroundings. But wait – a surprising trend is taking over interior design. Those notorious colors have returned in recent years, and interior designers are finding ways to transform them from kitschy to chic.
The Unexpected Resurgence of ’70s Hues
In the era of minimalist aesthetics, the return of these colors might raise eyebrows. Icons like Kelly Wearstler and Muriel Brandolini have been flaunting olive, amber, and saffron shades on their Instagram feeds. It’s a sign that we’re entering a new phase of design – one that embraces the hues once considered passé.
Embracing the Nostalgia with a Twist
Nostalgia seems to be driving this revival. With a fresh perspective, we’re reimagining our grandparents’ era and recognizing the need for warmth in our cold, technological world. A Los Angeles textile and interior designer, Peter Dunham, notes the increased interest in these shades over the last few years. It’s a shift from the dominant gray tones and a step towards a cozier, more inviting atmosphere.
Earth Tones: Comfort in Chaos
Amid the world’s chaos, these earthy colors have a soothing quality. Unlike the vibrant pinks and cool grays that have prevailed, these hues evoke a sense of comfort and calm. According to color experts like Lauren Wager and Montaha Hidefi, these shades offer a retreat from the outside world’s madness. They hark back to when these colors emerged as a response to a turbulent decade, coinciding with the rise of environmental awareness.
Rebranding the Palette: Modern Twists on Classic Names
Before you dismiss these colors as outdated, consider their modern reinterpretations. Labels like “avocado green” might not excite you, but names like “Guacamole” and “Basque Green” offer fresh perspectives. Glidden’s 2022 Color of the Year, “Guacamole,” adds a contemporary twist to the classic shade.
How to Rock ’70s Hues Today
1. Nature as a Neutral
Designers like Christie Ward and Staver Gray have tapped into nature’s inspiration. Their approach incorporates oversized leaves and organic wood tones, creating a harmonious blend of olive, marigold, and brown. This strategy offers a moody subtlety far from the clichés of the ’70s.
2. Master Modern Monochrome
Meghan Eisenberg’s take on olive green showcases its versatility. She transformed a bathroom into a calming oasis by avoiding excessive saturation and combining moody paint with contemporary tile. The result is a cocoon of tranquility far from the kitsch often associated with this color.
3. Don’t Overlook Brown
Shades of dusky sand and rich chocolate are a sophisticated alternative to the era’s bright hues. These shades add warmth and depth to a space, making them an ideal choice for creating a cozy ambiance.
4. Embrace Eclecticism
Unlike the rigid styles of the past, today’s interiors thrive on contrasts. You can elevate the classic shades to a new level by incorporating salvaged materials and unexpected design elements. The result is a fusion of antique and modern, giving these colors a contemporary edge.
5. Dive into the Deep End
Designer Frances Merrill suggests that using more colors can make them feel less jarring. This approach was brilliantly executed in the makeover of a Malibu surf trailer. The space features an array of woodsy hues, including avocado plank floors and marigold-print wallpaper, creating a playful yet cohesive atmosphere.
The Ugly-Pretty Revolution
The revival of ’70s colors isn’t just about design; it’s about embracing the essence of a bygone era and giving it a modern twist. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia or the calming effect of these earth tones, there’s no denying their newfound allure. So, as we journey through this unexpected resurgence, let’s celebrate the beauty in what was once considered “ugly.” After all, the perfect blend of the past and present makes design genuinely timeless.