Explore how rugs defined 70s interior design, from shag to bold geometrics. Discover TAPIS Studio’s modern take on this timeless trend.
The 1970s were a golden age for self-expression in interior design. This era was a rebellion against the streamlined modernism of the 50s and 60s, embracing instead a mix of textures, global influences, and a whole lot of personality. The rooms were drenched in saturated colors, the furniture lines were soft and curvy, and above all, the spaces felt warm, inviting, and lived-in. In the heart of this transformation were the rugs—bold, plush, unapologetically groovy.
In 70s interior design, rugs weren’t just background players; they were stars of the show. They defined zones in open floor plans, introduced tactile contrast to hard surfaces, and reflected the personal tastes of homeowners who were embracing a freer, more relaxed lifestyle. Today, as this vintage style stages a powerful comeback, rugs remain the foundation of any space inspired by 70s interior design.
The Soul of the 70s: Rugs as Visual Anchors
Rugs in 1970s interior design played a crucial role in creating mood and flow. Homes of this era often featured open layouts, and rugs served as boundary markers for living, dining, and lounging areas. Designers used these textile pieces to ground furniture and to bring cohesion to otherwise eclectic spaces.
Perhaps most memorably, rugs were used to introduce color and texture. Deep shag pile rugs in hues like burnt orange, olive green, and mustard yellow were practically synonymous with the decade. These textures invited bare feet and floor lounging, a stark departure from the more formal aesthetics of prior decades.
Just as important as color and comfort was the ability of rugs to carry artistic expression. Psychedelic and geometric designs, inspired by art movements of the time, became hallmarks of 70s interior decor. A rug could echo the curves of a modular sofa or complement the organic vibe of macramé wall hangings and rattan furniture.
Essential Rug Styles in 70s Interior Design
1. The Iconic Rugs
When one thinks of 70s interior design, the image of thick, luxurious rugs often comes to mind. These high-pile rugs were not only visually inviting but also a physical symbol of the era’s comfort-first mentality. Whether in neutral creams or vibrant jewel tones, shag rugs transformed living rooms into cozy retreats.
Their tactile allure was more than aesthetic. Rugs softened acoustics in the home, made floor-sitting comfortable, and stood in beautiful contrast to sleek wood or tile flooring.
2. Shaped Rugs
A playful departure from traditional rectangular formats, shaped rugs emerged as a standout feature in 70s interior design. From circular and oval rugs to more experimental silhouettes like amoebas, flowers, or free-form curves, these rugs brought a sense of whimsy and softness to interiors. Their unusual outlines complemented the era’s love of organic shapes and fluid furniture designs.
Shaped rugs were incredibly versatile. Designers often used them in boho-chic settings or eclectic spaces to break up rigid floor plans and add an unexpected focal point. Whether placed beneath a curved sofa or used to define a cozy reading nook, shaped rugs became both functional and sculptural elements, perfectly aligned with the playful spirit of 70s interior design.
3. Geometric Rugs
Another major player in the decade’s rug landscape was the graphic geometric rug. These often featured angular patterns, concentric circles, or repeating motifs in contrasting colors. The style was a nod to both Art Deco and Op Art, creating dynamic focal points in the room.
Paired with lucite coffee tables or modular sectionals, these rugs delivered impact and movement. They mirrored the energy of the disco era while grounding the space in structure.
Materials and Craftsmanship of the Era
The 70s saw an embrace of both natural and synthetic materials. Wool remained popular for its durability and texture, while new materials like acrylic and polyester offered greater color variety and affordability. Designers mixed the two freely, celebrating the authenticity of natural fibers but not shying away from artificial innovations.
Handmade rugs also gained appreciation during this time. Artisanal craftsmanship was back in vogue, thanks to the countercultural interest in all things handmade. Tribal patterns, influenced by Moroccan and Native American styles, made their way into homes, often through handwoven or knotted rug designs.
This international flair gave rise to eclectic spaces—mixing shag with flatweave, monochrome with saturated hues—creating the kind of layered aesthetic that defined 70s interior design.
Modern Revival: Bringing 70s Rugs into Contemporary Spaces
Today, 70s interior design is undergoing a full-blown revival, and rugs are once again central to this retro-modern style. The warmth, comfort, and nostalgia these rugs bring are unmatched, and they can be used in clever ways to suit today’s design sensibilities.
For a minimalist home, a bold geometric rug becomes an intentional design statement. In a bohemian setting, layering a flokati over a vintage kilim brings both history and depth. Shag rugs in muted tones are now being used in modern interiors to add softness and break up the severity of clean lines.
Incorporating rugs inspired by 1970s interior design allows homeowners to explore color and texture in ways that feel fresh, modern, yet distinctly nostalgic.
TAPIS Studio: Curating the Spirit of the 70s
At the forefront of the 70s design revival is TAPIS Studio, a brand that understands the cultural and aesthetic richness of the era. TAPIS Studio curates rugs that channel the spirit of 70s interior design, from high-pile textures to rich patterns with a contemporary twist.
Their latest collections feature shag-inspired rugs made with updated colorways, perfect for the modern retro enthusiast. With a focus on craftsmanship, sustainability, and design integrity, TAPIS Studio bridges past and present, making 70s elegance accessible for today’s homes.
Whether you’re designing a groovy lounge space or simply want a statement rug that captures that iconic vibe, TAPIS Studio offers pieces that resonate with the comfort, creativity, and individuality of 70s interior design.
Step Into the Past: The ’70s Spirit Lives On
The bold spirit of 70s interior design lives on through the timeless appeal of rugs. These foundational elements not only define space but also evoke emotion, character, and history. As designers and homeowners alike turn back to the warmth and playfulness of this unforgettable decade, rugs remain the key to capturing that energy.
If you’re ready to bring a touch of the past into your present, look no further than TAPIS Studio. Explore their latest collection and discover how vintage inspiration meets modern craftsmanship—one rug at a time.
Sources: 1stDIBS
