Avocado Green & Burnt Orange – The Colors That Defined the 1950s–70s

There’s something about a deep burnt orange or a mellow avocado green that instantly transports us back in time. Maybe it’s the memory of Grandma’s kitchen appliances, that retro floral wallpaper in the hallway, or the shag carpet from your first apartment. These colors didn’t just happen to be popular—they were emblematic of the post-war optimism, cultural shifts, and evolving design ideals of the 1950s through the 1970s.

Let’s take a step back and explore why these warm, earthy hues captured the spirit of mid-century and bohemian homes—and why they continue to speak to us today.

The Rise of Avocado Green

Avocado green debuted in home design during the late 1950s but took root in the 1960s and early ’70s. It was introduced alongside other “nature-inspired” shades as Americans craved a more grounded, earthy aesthetic in their homes. After decades of war and hardship, people longed for peace, simplicity, and a return to the natural world.

Avocado green was the perfect compromise—it was fresh yet muted, comforting without being boring. Appliance makers like General Electric and Frigidaire offered refrigerators, stoves, and even washers in this iconic hue. Kitchens became softer, more welcoming places, with green acting as a subtle backdrop to everyday life.

Burnt Orange: Warmth & Freedom

Where avocado grounded, burnt orange warmed. Inspired by Southwestern sunsets, desert landscapes, and boho textile patterns, burnt orange radiated energy and individuality. It surged in popularity during the late 1960s and was a staple through the ’70s, often paired with mustard yellow, brown, or cream.

This shade reflected the cultural climate of the time—youthful rebellion, artistic experimentation, and a break from tradition. Whether on macramé wall hangings, corduroy sofas, or polyester jumpsuits, burnt orange stood out and made a statement.

And Let’s Not Forget Harvest Gold

Right alongside avocado green in mid-century kitchens and living rooms was the warm, sun-kissed glow of harvest gold. This rich golden-yellow hue was everywhere—on appliances, linoleum floors, Formica countertops, and even bathroom fixtures. Like its earth-toned companions, harvest gold reflected the era’s love of nature-inspired colors, evoking fields of wheat and late summer sunsets. It brought a cozy, lived-in feeling to spaces while still feeling cheerful and optimistic. Often paired with deep browns or vibrant oranges, harvest gold helped create that unmistakable ‘70s palette we still associate with comfort, creativity, and a hint of retro rebellion.

Why These Colors Last

Design trends may come and go, but avocado green and burnt orange keep circling back into style. Perhaps it's because they evoke a time when homes were cozy, handmade, and full of personality. Or maybe it's the nostalgia—the memory of warm kitchens, groovy living rooms, and afternoons spent flipping through vinyl.

In today’s world, these tones still bring comfort. They connect us to a slower, simpler time—and in a fast-paced digital age, that connection is more welcome than ever.

Incorporating These Colors Today

My house was built in 1979 and I love the original green carpet in our living room. I wish it had the original avocado or harvest gold kitchen appliances. Having pieces that were my grandparents in my house is comforting. I live for that nostalgia and it gives my house a different feel. Adding these colors to a modern design warms up and personalizes the space. Today, a lot of modern design lacks color. While I love the clean look and nice lines, color brings personality, acceptance, and security to a home. It's like your house giving you a big hug.

While you don’t need to live in a Brady Bunch house (even though this would be my absolute dream), to embrace this palette, try adding avocado green through accent chairs, vintage dishware, or indoor plants. Let burnt orange peek in through textiles, throw pillows, or artwork. These hues add depth and warmth to any space, whether you lean mid-century modern, ’70s boho, or even eclectic contemporary.

Colors have stories to tell—and avocado green and burnt orange have lived full, vibrant lives. They remind us of where we’ve been, the homes that raised us, and the way design once mirrored hope, change, and heart. In a world that often forgets its roots, these colors keep the past alive—and for that, we’re grateful.