The 1970s Meet the 2010s

I've been hitting 1970s decor inspiration hard. I love all the wicker, textiles, wood, plants, and natural-toned goodness that it had to offer. But even for those who aren't as smitten with the era, the 1970s can give you a dose of inspiration that reads more modern than kitsch. Here are some pairings of interiors that I've found from both eras that, to my mind, represent an excellent blend of the past and present.

(Above) 1979: Remodeling Your Home by Sunset Books via Drydockshop/ 2014: A Beautiful Mess

Yellow cabinetry, white walls, a white paneled ceiling, and terra-cotta toned accents give these spaces a bright, happy, and fresh feeling. Subway tile, a concrete countertop, and totally open shelving add dose of "modern" to the A Beautiful Mess kitchen.

1975: Planning & Remodeling Bathrooms by Sunset Books via Drydockshop / 2013: House of the Year by Emily Henderson

Both rooms let the floor take pride of place with white and blue graphic tiles. White walls keep the space feeling bright, and wicker storage adds a natural element.

1976: The Complete Book of Decorating by Corinne Benicka via Drydockshop/ 2010s: Architectural Digest via DecorPad

Rugs in alternating stripes add a dose of pattern to the floor, while a smaller pattern adorns the bed. In the modern case, block prints are tempered by larger swathes of white underneath, while the 1970s case goes for gusto with an all-patterned bed.

1970: House & Garden's Complete Guide to Interior Decoration via Drydockshop/ 2014: Jen Kelly Wick on The Style Saloniste

Small doses of animal prints accent a different, more ample use of animal print. Light bounces around, thanks to plentiful windows and mirrors, and large doses of white temper the abundant patterns. Furniture with curving arms and backs keep the rooms from feeling too straight and sharp.