Let’s travel back to the groovy 1970s: a time when bold expression was everywhere – from the funky music, to the clothes, and yes, even to the tile people used in their homes! In this era, staples of interior design transformed, and rooms became like canvases for the unique colors and textures of the population’s entirely new aesthetic. Homeowners weren't just looking for function; they wanted personality. The 1970s were all about warmth, creativity, and individuality. This was clear in the prominent use of earthy tones in design – like terracotta, deep green, and burnt orange – reflecting the back-to-nature trend most people embraced. Terracotta floors added rustic coziness to kitchens and patios, and glazed ceramics gave backsplashes, walls, and fireplaces a new feeling of depth and expression. The tiles from this era weren’t just a backdrop; they were intended to make unique statements of personal style.
Meanwhile, at Tile Wholesalers of Rochester, this was when our story began. Founded by Alan Firkins in 1972 with a simple dream: to provide quality tile and build lasting relationships through service that people could trust.
Fast forward to today, and you can see the way Alan’s dream has manifested throughout our 52-year history, and you can still see the spirit of the 1970s in many of the collections in our showroom. While the designs are modern, the inspiration is unmistakable. Take Copper Ironworks by Artistic Tile, for example. It channels that warm, earthy terracotta feel but comes with the durability of modern porcelain. Or look at the Levante Collection by Adex USA, which transforms bold ‘70s-style geometry into a contemporary pattern that works beautifully in today’s kitchens or bathrooms. These designs remind us that the elements we loved from the 1970s—playful patterns, organic textures, and warm, cozy palettes—still inspire us now.
Earthy Tones and Natural Textures
In the ‘70s, we saw a shift toward natural palettes, including shades like clay, forest green, and amber. Terracotta, in particular, became a staple for flooring, offering warmth and an organic feel that instantly made spaces feel welcoming. Today, tiles like Mosaic Tile Rosso Francia by Artistic Tile evoke that same grounded, earthy charm, but with the added benefits of modern performance. These designs stay true to the ‘70s spirit but are perfectly suited for modern interiors.
Natural stone textures gained popularity in the ‘70s, bringing an outside-in feel to interior spaces. Florida Tile’s Pebbles in Yellowstone Round channels this organic influence with its smooth, rounded stones, perfect for creating spa-like floors or adding tactile interest to outdoor spaces.
Rich greens were another staple of the era, reflecting the fascination with natural tones and materials. Glass tiles now offer a modern way of bringing that palette into contemporary spaces. Royal Gems by Anthology Tile in Regal Jade captures the lush, botanical spirit of the ‘70s while adding a complimentary hint of luxury.
The Power of Patterns: Geometry and Mosaics
The core of the 70’s spirit embraced bold, creative risk-taking. Patterns were everywhere, and homeowners incorporated eye-catching zigzags, hexagons, and geometric motifs into their floors, backsplashes, and walls. Today, those same patterns are back, refreshed with new materials and finishes.
Hustle - Inferno by Sonoma Tilemakers takes the classic hexagon shape (a 1970s favorite) and updates it with eye-catching dimension and depth. Or, there’s the Berlin by Dune USA in Romina, which brings that structured, geometric look to today’s spaces in a playful yet sophisticated way.
Chevron patterns were another trend that defined the decade, and they’re beautifully reimagined in Swingin’ Chevron by Artistic Tile. This glass mosaic incorporates subtle blues into a detailed chevron design, balancing timeless charm with a contemporary feel.
Textural Innovation: A Return to Natural Stone
And of course, texture! The ‘70s saw a lot of natural stone tiles that brought an organic look indoors. We love seeing this trend evolve, with modern collections elevating the organic beauty of stone for contemporary use.
Premier Marble by Florida Tile, for instance, captures this retro essence with a hexagonal shape in Giallo Honed, adding visual interest and warmth. This tile represents the same authenticity that made the ‘70s interiors feel real and grounded while fitting beautifully into modern designs.
A Legacy Built on Relationships and Quality
As tile design evolved in the ‘70s, so did we at Tile Wholesalers of Rochester. Alan Firkins built this company on strong relationships, starting with contractors and eventually expanding to homeowners, designers, and architects. His commitment to service and quality has become our cornerstone, and it’s something we carry forward today in our newly redesigned showroom. From expertise on the latest design trends to helping with the perfect tile choice for your project, our team continues to offer top-notch service to every customer who walks through our doors.
The Lasting Impact of 1970s Tile Design
The 1970s left an indelible mark on interior design, and we’re proud to carry that legacy forward. The patterns, textures, and color palettes from that decade continue to influence today’s tile collections. At Tile Wholesalers of Rochester, it’s been a privilege to help customers bring character and personality into their spaces for over 50 years.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next in the Eras of Tile Series?
Stay tuned as we continue our “Eras of Tile” series! Next up is the 1980s – a decade that embraced pastel palettes, ceramic tile, and new patterns. We’ll take a look at how those trends shaped the industry and share some company milestones that shaped our narrative.
