Shining Through the 70s: A Dazzling Look at Lighting Design of a Decade

Introduction

The 70s was an era of innovation and experimentation in the world of lighting design. From disco balls to lava lamps, from colored gels to fog machines, the 70s saw a new generation of designers pushing the boundaries of what was possible in lighting.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the key trends and innovations in lighting design during the 70s, and explore how these designs continue to influence our modern-day lighting schemes.

The Emergence of Disco Lighting

The rise of disco in the 70s brought with it a new style of lighting design that focused on creating a flashy, colorful, and dynamic atmosphere. Disco balls were a prevalent feature in nightclubs, reflecting pools of dancing, reflective light across the dancefloor.

But disco lighting wasn’t just about the disco ball. Colored lights, strobe lights, and lasers made their mark on the disco scene. Strobe lights, in particular, were a popular choice, as they created a sense of movement and disorientation on the dancefloor.

The Lava Lamp Phenomenon

Another 70s lighting trend that continues to be a popular design element today is the lava lamp. Originally designed by British entrepreneur, Edward Craven Walker, the first lava lamps were sold in 1963. However, it wasn’t until the 70s that they became a household item.

The mesmerizing, gooey blobs of the lava lamp in motion were the ultimate embodiment of the 70s’ free-spirited, laid-back attitude. And while the lava lamp is no longer the ubiquitous design element it once was, it remains an iconic symbol of the era.

Modern-Day Takes on 70s Lighting

While many of the lighting designs from the 70s might seem a bit outdated for modern tastes, they continue to serve as inspiration for contemporary designers. Many of today’s lighting schemes, from concert lighting to home decor, draw upon the vibrant colors, dynamic movements, and unconventional shapes that were popular during the 70s.

Concert Lighting

One area where 70s lighting design still reigns supreme is in live concert lighting. Bands like Pink Floyd and The Rolling Stones were pioneers in the use of theatricality and immersive lighting technology in their live performances.

Today, many concert lighting designers take inspiration from the psychedelic light shows of the 70s. They use LED lights, video projections, and other effects to create a visually stunning and immersive concert experience for audiences.

Home Decor

Another area where 70s lighting design is making a comeback is in home decor trends. Mid-century modern decor has surged in popularity in recent years, with many people embracing the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic of 70s design.

And while disco balls and strobe lights might not be in vogue for home lighting, designers are taking inspiration from the color schemes and shapes of 70s lighting. Bubble lamps, for instance, are becoming an increasingly popular design element in modern home lighting schemes.

Whether it’s bringing the disco lighting vibe to a live concert performance or utilizing the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic of mid-century modern design in home lighting, the legacy of 70s lighting design lives on.