70s Heaven

MOVE OVER MAD MEN — THERE’S A NEW NOSTALGIA TAKING OVER HOMEWARES

Designer Suzie McAdam shows Nathalie Marquez Courtney how to do retro

AFTER years of 1950s style dominating all things vintage for the home, the 70s are having a moment in the spotlight. This time around, though, it’s a look that has stepped over from the fashion runway. “There has definitely been a cross-over of some fashion influences,” says interior designer Suzie McAdam. “The 70s-inspired look was massive at the spring shows.”

Shaggy textures and retro, boho moods are all back. In the home, we’ve been seeing 70s style creep in slowly for the last few seasons — think hanging plants, rattan and wicker finishes as well as sheepskin and textured textiles.

The 70s palette has returned too, but in duskier shades. “Instead of the more dirty tones we associate with the 70s, we’re seeing lighter, softer hues,” says Suzie. Think earthy yellows and soft mustards, blended with pops of pink. We’re even beginning to move away from the pale woods that have dominated interiors season after season. “For so long it’s been very sleek and Scandinavian, with washed-out grey woods in paler tones, but I see us going back to the walnuts and vintage rosewoods.” The key to making this look work without it looking like the set of That 70s Show lies in clever layering. “It’s about being a curator and picking one or two key pieces, and then marrying it with your own style,” says Suzie. “For me, eclectic interiors always win out, so it’s about pairing it with contemporary pieces and greenery versus going for full-on.” For more ideas from Suzie (pictured), come to hear her at house 2018 on the Inspiration Stage on 25 May at 11am; 26 and 27 May, at 11.30am; and at Trend Talks on 27 May at 11.30am; Tickets on house-event.ie/tickets