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Top Summer Interior Design Trends: Embracing Retro Vibes with 70's-Inspired Scandinavian Design

Carl Heinrichs, owner of Quagga Designs.
Written by,

Carl Heinrichs

CEO of Quagga

Summer is a wonderful time to refresh and update your home's interior design. This season, the top trend is all about embracing retro vibes with a modern twist. One trend that perfectly captures this spirit is the 70's-inspired Scandinavian design. This style combines the simplicity and functionality of Scandinavian design with the bold colors and patterns of the 70's, resulting in a unique and vibrant aesthetic.

Embracing the Retro Vibes: 70's-Inspired Scandinavian Design

Incorporating vintage elements into modern Scandinavian interiors is a key aspect of this trend. By blending old and new, you can create a space that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. One way to achieve this is by incorporating vintage furniture pieces or accessories. Look for mid-century pieces with clean lines and organic shapes.

When it comes to colors, opt for warm and earthy tones like mustard yellow, burnt orange, and olive green. These hues were popular in the 70's and bring a cozy and inviting feel to any space. Don't be afraid to use bold patterns, such as geometric prints or floral motifs, in your textiles and wallpapers. These patterns add visual interest and create a sense of playfulness.

Remember, the key to successfully incorporating vintage elements into your modern interior is balance. Mix old and new pieces in a way that feels harmonious and intentional. By doing so, you'll create a space that is both timeless and unique.

Imagine stepping into a living room that effortlessly combines the best of two eras: the sleek simplicity of Scandinavian design and the groovy vibes of the 70's. The result is a space that exudes charm and character, inviting you to take a trip down memory lane while still feeling firmly rooted in the present.

As you enter the room, your eyes are immediately drawn to a vintage leather armchair, its rich caramel hue contrasting beautifully against the clean lines of a modern sofa. The mid-century coffee table in the center of the room catches your attention with its organic shape and smooth walnut finish. It's a perfect example of how old and new can coexist harmoniously.

The color palette of the room is warm and inviting, reminiscent of the earthy tones that were popular in the 70's. The walls are painted in a soothing mustard yellow, creating a cozy backdrop for the space. A burnt orange throw blanket drapes over the arm of the sofa, adding a pop of color and texture. The olive green curtains, with their subtle floral pattern, frame the windows and bring a touch of nature indoors.

As you take a closer look, you notice the attention to detail in the textiles and wallpapers. The cushions on the sofa feature bold geometric prints, adding visual interest and a playful touch. The wallpaper behind the vintage sideboard showcases a whimsical floral motif, transporting you back to a time when flower power was all the rage.

But it's not just about the individual pieces in the room; it's about how they all come together to create a cohesive and balanced space. The vintage elements act as focal points, while the modern pieces provide a clean and contemporary backdrop. The room feels curated and intentional, with each item carefully chosen to contribute to the overall aesthetic.

Embracing the retro vibes of 70's-inspired Scandinavian design is not just about following a trend; it's about creating a space that reflects your personal style and tells a story. It's about celebrating the past while embracing the present. So go ahead, mix old and new, and let your imagination run wild. The possibilities are endless.

The Beauty of Styled Ceramics: Elevating Your Home Decor

Ceramics are a versatile and timeless material that can instantly elevate your home decor. Whether it's a handcrafted vase, a decorative bowl, or a sculptural piece, ceramics add texture and personality to your space.

Imagine walking into a room filled with beautifully styled ceramics. The vibrant colors and intricate designs catch your eye, drawing you in. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the artist's skill and creativity. From delicate porcelain to rustic earthenware, ceramics offer a wide range of options to suit any aesthetic.

To create a stunning ceramic display in your living space, consider using a mix of shapes, sizes, and colors. Arrange them on a shelf or a mantel, and play with different heights and groupings. This will create visual interest and draw the eye to your curated collection of ceramics.

Picture a shelf adorned with an array of ceramic vases. Some are tall and slender, showcasing a single stem of your favorite flower. Others are squat and round, perfect for holding a small bouquet. The colors vary from earthy tones to vibrant hues, adding depth and dimension to the display. As you admire the collection, you can't help but feel a sense of tranquility and beauty.

Another way to incorporate ceramics into your interior design is by using them as functional pieces. For example, a set of beautifully glazed dinnerware can add elegance to your dining table, while a unique ceramic lamp can become a statement piece in your living room.

Imagine hosting a dinner party with your loved ones. The table is set with exquisite ceramic plates, each one carefully hand-painted with intricate patterns. The soft glaze catches the candlelight, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. As you enjoy your meal, you can't help but appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating these functional works of art.

Don't be afraid to experiment and let your personal style shine through when styling ceramics. They have a timeless quality that will add a touch of sophistication to any room.

Imagine a cozy reading nook, bathed in soft natural light. A comfortable armchair is adorned with a plush cushion, inviting you to sit and relax. On a nearby side table, a ceramic mug awaits, filled with your favorite hot beverage. The intricate patterns on the mug's surface catch your eye, and you can't help but run your fingers along the smooth glaze. As you take a sip, you feel a sense of calm and contentment, knowing that you've created a space that reflects your unique style and taste.

Exploring the Art of Weaving: Adding Texture to Your Home

Texture is an important element in interior design as it adds depth and visual interest to your space. One way to incorporate texture is by exploring the art of weaving. From macrame wall hangings to woven baskets, there are numerous ways to bring this craft into your home.

DIY weaving projects are a great way to enhance your interior design while also tapping into your creativity. Start with simple projects like a woven wall hanging or a small rug. As you gain confidence, you can try more complex projects like a woven headboard or a room divider.

The beauty of weaving is that it allows you to experiment with different materials and colors. Combine natural fibers like cotton or jute with vibrant yarns to create a unique and personalized piece of art.

By incorporating woven elements into your home, you'll not only add texture but also a sense of warmth and coziness.

Embracing the Serenity: Neutral & Subdued Color Palettes

In today's fast-paced world, creating a calming atmosphere in your home is essential. One way to achieve this is by embracing neutral and subdued color palettes. These colors create a sense of serenity and tranquility, making your home a peaceful retreat.

When using neutral tones, think beyond beige and white. Experiment with shades of gray, taupe, or even soft pastels. These colors provide a subtle backdrop that allows other elements in the room to shine.

Incorporate texture and different materials to add interest to your neutral space. Opt for natural materials like wood or rattan for furniture pieces, and use textiles with different weaves and finishes for your upholstery and curtains.

By creating a calming atmosphere with neutral tones, you'll be able to relax and unwind in your own oasis of tranquility.

Mix & Un-Match: The Art of Eclectic Home Styling

If you're a fan of bold colors and patterns, the eclectic home styling trend is perfect for you. Mixing patterns and colors that wouldn't traditionally go together can create a visually exciting and dynamic space.

When mixing patterns, start with a base color and choose patterns in complementary shades. This will help create a cohesive look while still allowing each pattern to stand out. Experiment with different scales of patterns, such as pairing a large-scale floral print with a small-scale geometric pattern.

Don't forget to mix colors as well. Vibrant jewel tones can work well together, as can contrasting pastels. The key is to find a balance between different colors and patterns so that the space feels cohesive rather than chaotic.

Remember, the art of eclectic home styling is all about expressing your personality and embracing unique combinations.

Earth Minerals & Shell Tones: Bringing Nature Indoors

Bringing elements of nature into your home is a timeless trend that never goes out of style. This summer, earth minerals and shell tones are the go-to colors for capturing the essence of the natural world.

Incorporating natural elements into your home decor can be as simple as adding a few seashells to a vignette or displaying a collection of rocks and minerals. You can also consider using earth-toned materials like terracotta or natural wood for your furniture and accessories.

To create a cohesive look, pair these earthy tones with organic textures like sisal, rattan, or linen. This will add depth and visual interest to your space while evoking a sense of calm and tranquility.

Bohemian Chic: Creating a Free-Spirited Home

If you're drawn to a free-spirited and unconventional style, bohemian chic is the trend for you. This summer, embrace the bohemian look in your living space by combining colorful textiles, vintage furniture, and handmade accessories.

To achieve a bohemian look, start with a neutral base and layer on vibrant textiles, such as patterned rugs, embroidered cushions, and tapestries. Mix and match different patterns and textures to create a visually rich and eclectic space.

Embrace the beauty of imperfection by incorporating vintage furniture pieces with character. Look for unique pieces with interesting shapes and traces of wear. These pieces will add personality and charm to your bohemian-inspired interior.

Finish off your bohemian look with handmade accessories like macrame wall hangings, beaded curtains, and woven baskets. These handmade pieces add a sense of craftsmanship and authenticity to your space.

Celebrating Natural Textures: Adding Depth to Your Interiors

One of the key elements in interior design is texture. By incorporating natural textures, you can add depth and visual interest to your home.

Incorporating organic materials into your home design is a great way to celebrate natural textures. Consider using materials like rattan, bamboo, jute, or reclaimed wood for your furniture and accessories. These materials bring warmth and a sense of nature into your space.

Another way to add texture is by using textiles with different weaves and finishes. Mix smooth fabrics with nubby textures or add a cozy knit throw to your sofa. These layers of texture create a tactile experience and make your space feel inviting and comfortable.

By celebrating natural textures, you'll create a space that is visually engaging and feels connected to the natural world.

As you embrace the top summer interior design trends and add a touch of retro flair or natural textures to your home, consider the foundation of your restful retreat—the bed. Quagga Designs offers a seamless blend of style, convenience, and sustainability with our easy-to-assemble bed frames, proudly MADE IN CANADA. Experience the innovation of our No-Fuss Plus and Tic-Tac-Toe beds, which require no hardware and can be assembled in less time than it takes to unbox them—under 10 minutes! Our No-Fuss Plus bed frame even expands with your needs, from single to double and queen to king size, while the Accordion bed accommodates a range of mattress sizes. Crafted with FSC Certified Maple wood from Quebec and Mahogany, and using an all-natural soy-based glue, our bed frames are the epitome of environmental responsibility. Customize your Quagga bed frame to match your new interior design, and rest easy knowing you're supporting our local economy and reducing landfill waste. Plus, with a 5-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial, and a commitment to charitable partnerships, you're not just choosing a bed frame—you're choosing a brand that cares. Ready to transform your bedroom with the most environmentally clean bed frames on the market? Check out our products and discover the perfect foundation for your stylish summer sanctuary.

Carl Heinrichs

CEO of Quagga
Carl Heinrichs is the Founder of Quagga, Canada's most innovative furniture design solutions that are easy to assemble and playfully made.

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