The 1970s were a decade of bold interiors, distinctive furniture and some very memorable decorating choices – and many of us will remember them from our own homes.
We’ve dipped into the Express & Star archive to find a fascinating collection of pictures showing how homes across the West Midlands looked during the decade. From fitted kitchens to show homes, living rooms and housing developments, the images offer a glimpse into everyday domestic life.
Think polished teak wall units, patterned carpets, floral wallpaper, floor-level lounging and the arrival of new heating technologies as homes changed with the times.
Whether you lived through the 1970s or simply love the distinctive style of the decade, these pictures offer a chance to step back inside the homes of the era.
Do you remember what your home looked like in the 1970s? Which style or feature from the era was your favourite? Share your memories in the comments.
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9. Mosaic magic and mini-skirts at the start of the decade
Wall-to-wall mosaic tiles, magnetic knife racks, and a trendy high stool - this August 1971 snapshot captures the early 1970s DIY boom in all its glory. Actress Jennifer Clulow checks on dinner while her actor husband, Mike McTay, chats from the corner bar stool. Showcasing the popular decor trends of the early seventies, the kitchen walls were styled using Polycell mosaic tiles to give the room an instant, modern makeover. Did you or your parents spend a weekend sticking down Polycell mosaics to get that ultra-modern 1970s look? What DIY trend from the decade do you remember most - the stick-on tile craze or the floor-to-ceiling feature wallpaper? | Express & Star archive
10. Modular shelving, leather seating, and sleek audio setups
Tubular leather armchairs, an integrated drinks cabinet, and extensive modular shelving - this August 1979 photograph showcases a stylish living room design that expertly balances comfort with everyday practicality. Featuring modular wall furniture from the popular Laply (Tapley) range, the versatile shelving unit creates dedicated space for a turntable, radio tuner, portable television, and a built-in bar setup. Paired with a stylishly dressed hostess, a large retro wall clock, and globe pendant lighting, this interior captures the height of contemporary lounge design. Do you remember when modular wall shelving systems like these were considered the ultimate solution for organising a living room? Who recalls having a built-in drop-down drinks cabinet stocked and ready for weekend entertaining? | Express & Star archive
11. Afternoon tea and the essential drinks trolley
A chrome drinks trolley loaded with teacups takes centre stage in this March 1978 living room photo. Jim and Vera Hofton relax with a cup of tea in the lounge of their 18th-century home, surrounded by deep-seated armchairs, a dark glass-fronted cabinet, and leafy house plants. From the ornate fireplace and convex mirror to the traditional standard lamp, the setting blends period features with essential '70s comforts. Do you remember wheeling out a chrome drinks trolley when guests came over for afternoon tea? Who recalls having a corner display cabinet packed with fine china and trinkets back in the day? | Express & Star archive
12. Bold patterns and vinyl perfection underfoot
Swirling geometric shapes, stark monochrome contrasts, and wipe-clean practicality - nothing transformed a 1970s kitchen faster than a statement floor. Featured in March 1978, this eye-catching room relies on Dunlop Sextex’s cushioned vinyl range in the striking 'Valdez' pattern. Available in classic period shades like chocolate or avocado for a modest £3.52 a square metre, spongy lino flooring like this brought instant space-age style and comfort underfoot for busy seventies households. Did your family kitchen feature dizzying geometric vinyl or linoleum patterns back in the day? Which classic 1970s shade ruled your kitchen floor - chocolate brown, avocado green, or harvest gold? | Express & Star archive