Trendy Cookware Colors Everyone Owned In The 70s That Deserve A Comeback

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When you think of kitchens, you probably think of neutral colors like white, black, and gray. Maybe you picture metal fixtures, stone countertops, and painted cabinets. But there was a time, a few decades ago, when kitchens were filled with much more unique colors, and not just in wallpapers and paint colors. Colorful cookware was all the rage, from avocado green, to burnt orange, and harvest gold. If you feel nostalgic for the kitchens of your childhood, it might be time to bring these colors back — especially earthy tones. 

Earthy tones refer to colors that are generally found in nature, from foliage, the sea, and of course, the earth itself. Typically, these refer to browns, greens, and blues that are light and not too saturated, reminiscent of the organic colors you see in the world. And back in the day, these colors were commonly found in pots and pans, and even ovens or fridges. They were typically paired with burnt orange or harvest gold for that typical and unmistakably 1970s look. 

And if you'd like to design a beautiful '70s-inspired kitchen, these colors are perfect. Of course, we don't mean that you should make your kitchen look like your grandma's, but why not take a bit of inspiration from these colors that deserve a comeback? Modern takes on these color combos include deep but muted greens like avocado, sage, or olive tones. Earthy brownish-grays are also a great match for modern kitchens with a retro feel. These colors have the ability to make a room feel warm and grounding, like a hug. They're deep, but still neutral and not overstimulating. 

If you'd like to bring these earthy colors back, you can start small. For example, look through thrift stores for secondhand cookware that has those same earthy tones. Look for enamel pots or cast-iron pans in avocado green. You'll also find tons of retro cookware pieces in deep browns, reminiscent of wood. If you're an expert thrifter, you can probably score some truly old-school pieces like crockpots or fondue sets. And course, you can also add some bright accents like orange and gold appliances into the mix, especially if you'd like to fully jump on that '70s design trend that's popping up in homes again.

If you don't love secondhand, no worries. Modern manufacturers of cookware and appliances are well aware that these colors are making a comeback, and they're now offering tons of new, modern models in those colors. To add a splash of retro into your life, look for kettles, toasters, microwaves, coffee machines, and mixers in those earthy tones that are oh so retro. For example, this Amaste retro bread toaster comes in that beautiful muted avocado green color, as well as this Tinlon tea kettle.

And of course, you can also add these colors into your home with more significant makeovers. Think cabinets, backsplashes, or walls drenched in olive greens, light sages, gray-blues, or light browns. Expand beyond the kitchen and bring earthy tones to your home decor through linens and furniture: rugs, couches, curtains — you name it. And if you lack inspiration, spend some time looking through old photos of 1970s kitchen appliances, and see what you like.