The 1970s was a decade full of bold design choices and unique home features that made a statement. While many of these trends became popular across the board, some were exclusive luxuries reserved for the wealthy.
You might be surprised to learn which high-end home features only the rich could afford during this colorful era. These touches set upscale homes apart and reflected the affluence of their owners in both style and innovation.
Custom-built home theaters
Back in the ’70s, having a custom-built home theater was a serious flex. You’re talking about rooms designed specifically for watching movies, decked out with giant screens and top-tier sound systems.
Only the wealthy could afford soundproofing, plush seating, and all the fancy tech needed for a real cinema vibe. These theaters often featured wood paneling and dark walls to enhance the viewing experience.
If you had one, it meant movie nights at home felt more like the real deal. It was all about creating a private, immersive space nobody else could match.
Mahogany wood paneling
If you had mahogany wood paneling in your ’70s home, you were definitely in the upscale crowd. This rich, reddish wood was prized for its beauty and durability, giving rooms a warm, elegant vibe.
Mahogany wasn’t just about looks—it was tough enough to last for decades. You’d often find it on walls, doors, or even ceilings, adding a high-end touch that few could afford back then.
Using mahogany paneling meant your home had a timeless quality, blending natural grain patterns with a polished finish that made your space stand out quietly but confidently.
Sunken living rooms
If you had a sunken living room in the ’70s, you were definitely on the fancy side. These recessed spaces, sometimes called conversation pits, gave your home a cozy vibe and made socializing feel special.
You’d usually find built-in seating arranged in a circle, perfect for chatting with friends or family. Adding a fireplace as the centerpiece was pretty common, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere only upscale homes could pull off well.
Built-in bar carts
If you had a high-end home in the ’70s, chances are you had built-in bar carts. These weren’t just any carts—they were often integrated into walls or furniture, designed to blend right into your living space.
You’d find small sinks, mini-fridges, and plenty of storage for glasses and bottles. It made entertaining effortless, letting you serve drinks without leaving the room.
Having one meant your home was party-ready, and you didn’t have to rely on the main kitchen. They were sleek, functional, and definitely a statement of style back then.
Avocado green kitchen appliances
If you had money to spend in the ’70s, chances are your kitchen featured avocado green appliances. These bold, colorful pieces weren’t just about function—they made a style statement.
Your fridge, stove, and dishwasher in that distinctive green instantly set your kitchen apart. It was a way to show you were on-trend and not afraid of color.
Today, these appliances might seem a bit retro, but back then, they brought life and personality to the heart of your home. Having avocado green gear was definitely a high-end choice.