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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33. Garden views and rich warm tones for lounge relaxing
Generous floor-to-ceiling windows, button-backed leather seating, and a sleek modern gas fire - this January 1978 photograph captures what Avery's described as their family room. Styled in warm shades, the expansive space overlooks the garden, blending period architectural details like decorative ceiling cornices with late '70s staples like a wheeled television stand, wall-mounted artwork, and lush indoor houseplants. Do you remember having a dedicated family room designed around large bay windows and garden views? Who recalls placing the main television set on a rolling metal stand so it could be angled perfectly from the sofa? | Express & Star archive
34. Geometric jacquard covers, chrome tables, and convertible living
A bold geometric pattern, a chrome and glass coffee table, and healthy potted houseplants - this April 1978 image highlights the 'Flatmate' convertible sofa by Dunlopillo. Upholstered in a hard-wearing jacquard fabric, this versatile double seating unit offered dual-density cushioning engineered to be firmer for sitting and slightly softer for sleeping. Flanked by a patterned oriental rug, corner table, and wall artwork, the layout demonstrates space-saving furniture options designed for modern apartments and smaller living areas. Do you remember having a convertible sofa or sofa bed like this to accommodate overnight guests? Who recalls pairing bold graphic upholstery with chrome-framed glass coffee tables? | Express & Star archive
35. Estate modernisations, central heating upgrades, and council showhouses
A slim wall-mounted gas fire, patterned wallpaper, and bare floorboards - this December 1976 photograph shows Sandwell Council public relations officer Barry Thomas testing a new gas fire in a showhouse at 33 Prince Street on the Corngreaves Estate in Cradley Heath. Part of a major £538,155 council modernisation initiative carried out by Sir Alfred McAlpine and Sons, the scheme upgraded 97 local authority properties across the area. Key improvements brought to these post-war homes included full central heating, rewiring, improved roof insulation, complete redecoration, and the fitting of modernised kitchens and bathrooms. Do you remember when council estates underwent major modernisation programs to bring central heating and updated kitchens to older homes? Who recalls visiting local showhouses to view the planned layout and appliance upgrades before work began on their own street? | Express & Star archive