Icons of the 1970s: Design That Still Shapes How We Sit, Lounge and Live 

The 1970s marked a turning point in furniture and lighting design. It was a decade defined by experimentation — softer forms, sculptural silhouettes and a new freedom in how furniture interacted with the body and the space around it. Designers challenged rigid modernism in favour of comfort, emotion and expression, creating pieces that felt as radical then as they do relevant now. Today, many of the era’s most influential designs are being reissued for contemporary interiors, proving that great ideas don’t date — they evolve. Here are some of Cult’s favourite icons of the 1970s, and why they continue to resonate.

Sculptural Comfort: Sofas and Lounge Chairs

Designed by Tobia and Afra Scarpa, the Elogio Sofa balances inviting softness with architectural clarity. Originally created as an evolution of Scarpa’s Erasmo sofa, Elogio reflects the couple’s belief that comfort and structure should coexist. Reissued by GUBI, it remains a masterclass in understated luxury.

Daumiller Armchair — Rainer Daumiller

Solid, sculptural and deeply honest in its construction, the Daumiller Armchair celebrates natural materials and robust form. It’s quiet confidence reflects Daumiller’s lifelong fascination with organic shapes and craftsmanship — qualities that feel increasingly relevant today.

F300 Lounge Chair — Pierre Paulin

Few designs capture the futuristic optimism of the 70s quite like the F300. With its flowing curves and bold form, Pierre Paulin introduced an entirely new chair typology. GUBI’s reissue preserves its sculptural impact while carefully reengineering the production process for modern use.

Pacha Lounge Chair — Pierre Paulin

Designed with the idea of “sitting on clouds”, the Pacha collection rejected traditional chair structures in favour of low, generous forms. Initially ahead of its time, it now feels perfectly aligned with contemporary living and relaxed interiors.

Industrial Innovation: Chairs of the High-Tech Era

Amanta Sofa — Mario Bellini

Originally designed by Bellini early in his career, Amanta is modular, flexible and unapologetically modern. Recently reissued by HAY, it reflects Bellini’s multidisciplinary thinking and HAY’s commitment to sustainable materials — even when revisiting historic designs.

X-Line Chair — Niels Jørgen Haugesen

Minimal and industrial, the X-Line chair exemplifies the high-tech movement of the 1970s. Made from thin metal wire, its precision engineering and lightweight expression make it as relevant in contemporary spaces as it was decades ago.

Rey Chair — Bruno Rey

First designed in 1971, the Rey Chair’s enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility. Relaunched by Dietiker, it has once again found its place across hospitality, workplace and residential interiors worldwide.

Lighting and Legacy: Verner Panton

Flowerpot Lamp — Verner Panton

No conversation about 70s design is complete without Verner Panton. The Flowerpot lamp captures the optimism, colour and spirit of the era, remaining one of the most recognisable lighting designs in history.

Flowerpot VP12 Floor Lamp & Wire Stool VP11

While the VP12 floor lamp is a later interpretation, it carries Panton’s unmistakable DNA. The Wire Stool, meanwhile, highlights his extensive exploration of metal wire — functional, playful and unmistakably Panton.

Why the 70s Still Matter

The enduring appeal of 1970s design lies in its humanity. These pieces prioritised comfort, experimentation and emotion — qualities that continue to shape how we live today. Reissued for modern interiors, they remind us that good design doesn’t follow trends; it sets them.

Many of these 1970s icons are best understood in person. Visit Cult Singapore to experience the forms, materials and comfort that continue to define the era.