Retro styles are seeing a resurgence in interior design, drawing inspiration from the mellow and psychedelic vibes of the 70s. By incorporating elements from this cherished era, you can infuse your home with a nostalgic yet opulent atmosphere. One 70s trend that is making a notable return is the conversation pit. These sunken, recessed areas offered a cozy and intimate spot for friends and family to gather, converse, and feel isolated from the rest of the house. The separation that a conversation pit provides offers a break from the modern living room’s electronics and distractions. Whether or not you’re familiar with sunken living rooms, they seem to be reappearing in some home designs as a tribute to the “laid back” lifestyle that encourages interaction over distraction.
The hallmark of a conversation pit is its lower placement within the home, requiring a few steps down to enter the area. This design gives it a cocoon-like feel, making it seem more secluded from the home’s hustle and bustle. There’s ample room for furniture and decor, allowing for both entertainment and relaxation. Along with velvet and shag rugs, this 70s-inspired decor idea can be adapted to homes without recessed areas with a few clever tricks.
Create a Conversation Pit with Furnishings and Textures
The ’70s interior design elements are making a return in various ways, and integrating a conversation pit adds depth to a home’s layout. The key to incorporating these sunken spaces is updating them with a modern twist. You can achieve this by using a variety of upholstery textures and materials, adding layers that enhance your “pit.” Incorporate plenty of soft, cozy elements to make this area an inviting spot to gather, so consider adding oversized cushions, plush chairs, and numerous throw pillows.
If your home doesn’t feature a sunken level but you still desire the intimate atmosphere of a conversation pit, you can simulate it through strategic furniture placement, color palette variations, and built-in or multi-level furnishings and decor. Arrange two couches to face each other, creating a vignette that mimics the conversation pit ambiance without needing a lowered floor section. Opt for furnishings that are lower to the ground for a snugger effect. Paint your walls in darker, moodier tones to achieve a more intimate aesthetic, as dark colors foster a cocoon-like ambiance. Finally, use surrounding pieces to create a higher level, such as high stools at your kitchen island if it adjoins the living room. Distinguish this area from others with rugs and textures, designating it as the cozy place to be. Consider adding bench seating if space allows for a more “enclosed” look.
