The 70s were uncertain times with inflation, high gas prices, leftist unrest, and heavy demonstrations. But it was also the time of the disco craze, platform shoes, spandex shorts, and polyester outfits. The smiley, which was made in the 60s gained mainstream consumer appeal in the 70s.
Today’s Zoomers are resurrecting the 70s look by using retro lights in their homes. It’s the nostalgia and wanting to give their own twist to things from the past.
The Shrooms are Back
Pinterest predicted this trend for 2023. Click here to see the post.
The mushrooms made a resurgence when the cottagecore trend came out during the pandemic. And it seems the shrooms are here to stay.
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The lamp on the left called the Atollo lamp was designed in 1977 by Vico Magistretti, one of the icons of Italian design. It won several design awards over the years. It overturned the classic shape of bedside (table) lamps. The three geometric bodies of the Atollo lamp—cylinder, cone, and hemisphere—are made out of an opaline blown Murano glass. It is also available in metal.
The light on the right belonging to the Panthella collection, was designed by influential Danish designer and architect Verner Panthon in 1971. The soft, diffused light is reflected on the trumpet stem.
Minimal geometric construction, soft and comfortable illumination, iconic shapes—these are perfect for the interior styles beloved today, from Scandi to Gen Z’s continually evolving maximalist design aesthetics.
Flower Power
Flower Power, a slogan for the hippies movement, started in the late 60s and early 70s as a non violent protest to the Vietnam War. This Flowerpot lamp designed by Verner Panton became a favorite in the 70s.
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Now it graces this home done up in orange hues against a light backdrop of white walls. The wood furniture complete the warm and organic vibe.
The Flowerpot light was designed by Verner Panton in 1968, and became a must-have in the 70s. It is made of enameled industrial metal, and consists of 2 semi-circular spheres facing each other. The lower sphere, which is twice smaller than the upper sphere, hides the bulb. The light provides a soft downward reflection.
Multi-Layered Lamps
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Danish architect and designer Poul Henningsen is best known for his PH lamp collection. Sleek and spare, these retro lights are made of multiple concentric shades. Their main purpose is to reduce glare by obscuring the light source.
On the foreground is the pale rose brass table lamp, so delicate that it makes me drool. A white background makes it even more ethereal. The pendant lamp in the background hanging over the living room is also a PH lamp called the Artichoke.
There are many lamps today that take inspiration from the multiple concentric shades design of the PH lamps. So if you really want one and can’t afford an original, try a replica.
Capiz Lamps
Another retro light is the homegrown capiz lamp popular in the 70s. From the capiz pendant lamp with cascading discs strung together, the design has evolved to something more stylish that fits the modern-day aesthetics better.
Capiz chandeliers add a glam vibe to a space. Because of the shell’s translucence, the light takes on a luminous glow that is soft and inviting.
Capiz ball lanterns can also be used outside. It is not so often that you see trees decorated with lights encased in these capiz balls, except maybe during Christmas. They do make for a very comforting sight when you see them so why not have them all year round?
Rice Paper Lamps
I just had to add this even if rice paper lamps are not from the 70s. In fact, they were used in 11th century Japan. It was given a modern design by Isamu Noguchi in the 50s. He called his lamps Akari, which denotes weightlessness and illumination. Ever since, their allure is recognized by many a homeowner.
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This lamp is great for selfies since it can impart that sexy glow and poreless look that so many aspire for. But it is not only for this that today’s homeowners want them in their homes. The soft glow from the lamp makes a home look very attractive and welcoming.
Again the original may cost thousands of dollars, but thank God there are many dupes available.
How to Find 70s Retro Lights
Wanna be in vogue? Finding 70s retro lights is worth the effort.
If you can afford to have the original, that’s great. Hooray to you.
Your best bet would be to go to secondhand furniture and home accessories stores. Going to your favorite haunts for a visit may bring you success, especially if you are abroad. Another way is to search for the items in the internet.
If you’re on a budget, don’t despair. Alternatives are easy to come by. In fact, IKEA has some options for the Noguchi lamps, for example. If not the shape, then definitely the material. While you’re in the area, drop by The Color Library and check out the Boysen paint colors that you could use for your walls to bring out the best in your newly-acquired lamp. A simple map in the link will help get you there.
Get One
As I mentioned above, these lights could fit many different interior styles. Personally, I would try to match the background colors and textures in the space to make the lamp the centerpiece. One of the hot interior style trends called Avant Basic could be perfect for these lights. Experiment away.
These lamps, especially the OGs, are in keeping with the trend to move away from fast furniture. These are keepers and can become family heirlooms that your kids may appreciate.
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