Goldie Hawn's '60s Los Angeles Living Room Was A Masterclass in the Art of Subtle Maximalism
Unapologetically cluttered interiors don't have to roar; they can whisper – photos of the actress's California home in 1968 show us how
Curated clutter is trending. As opposed to the pared-back interiors of the 2010s, homeowners today are seeking out new ways to make their homes feel equal parts stylish, lived-in, and full of personality. For inspiration, Homes & Gardens is turning the clock back to 1968.
A glimpse into Goldie Hawn's former Los Angeles living room reveals that the swinging '60s were the blueprint for today's most popular look; we're calling it 'subtle maximalism.' The interior design trend revolves around gently patterned textiles and leaving the items you use every day on display. Rather than bold colors and patterns, it deals in the beauty of warmly lived-in spaces.
For instance, Goldie's living room includes a wine rack, books on a shelf, open shelving displaying her record collection, a green corded phone, and a curved floral chair.
Goldie Hawn in her Los Angeles living room, 1968
With nostalgia shaping our interior design more than ever, we're using Goldie's living room for a guidebook in how to master subtle maximalism. Below, you will find plenty of quotes by design experts about how to recreate this style. We also curated an edit of retro-inspired accents to emulate Goldie's look. Let's dive in.
Recreate Goldie's Look at Home
Natural wood is the perfect way to ground statement materials like floral fabrics. This stylish mid-century shelf is the ideal place to store your records or books for a strong dose of personality.
Chintz features prominently in Goldie Hawn's living room, and this floral chair is a modern take on her '60s seat. I love how the flowers are slightly antiqued for a unique look you won't want to take your eyes off.
A vinyl record player is a must-have if you wish to replicate the good vibes of Goldie Hawn's living room. This one has a stunning look and comes at an affordable price point, making it easy to unlock the same energy.
This sleek, polished pair of zebra marble bookends will bring a refined feel to your bookshelves. They can be used to put your books or records on stylish display.
Goldie is pictured on a rotary phone in her '60s living room, and you can get the same look. Although it will be more decorative than functional, I'm partial to the playful nostalgia of featuring a piece like this pink telephone in your living room.
If you collect beautiful wines, why not put them on display? This wooden wine rack is similar to the one in Goldie's living room, and it's perfect for some subtly striking clutter.
In 2026, the chicest thing you can do is add character to your home. Rohan Blacker, Founder of sustainable sofa brand Schplendid, states: 'We're coming out of the era where most living rooms were decorated in fifty shades of grey. People are moving away from homes that look like they've been staged for a catalogue and back towards spaces with personality and soul.'
Homes from a time where life was not curated for social media, but rather for everyday living, like Goldie's '60s apartment, provide guidance on how to harness this character. However, making a space feel liveable doesn't mean it's random. A subtly maximalist can take just as much forethought and careful planning as an ultra-minimalist design.
Shelley Cochrane, Design expert at Furniture Village says: 'More is more, but the key to this trend, particularly when it comes to design, is to be thoughtful when thinking about the colors, patterns and styles you want to bring into your design scheme. Achieving an elevated maximalist interior is about contrasting colors and patterns, experimenting with eclectic pieces of furniture and layering.'
Contrast is central to this look, as Goldie demonstrates. A combination of natural wood, shiny fabric and matte walls creates a striking visual depth. To master the look, focus on unique and unexpected combinations.
'Just have fun with form, texture and color,' advises Rohan. 'Curved forms, plush velvets, shiny chrome and glossy finishes all work beautifully, especially when balanced with deeper tones like walnut and dark woods to keep everything grounded.'
Though this form of maximalism is less about all-over-pattern than its bolder cousin, a classic pattern, like the florals on Goldie's chair can help create interest. Stripes or flowers are always a good bet.
Shelly explains: 'Chintz is enjoying a triumphant return, bringing with it a sense of heritage, charm, and unabashed floral exuberance. Once a country house staple, it's now gracing contemporary interiors with renewed confidence for a look that is layered, lived-in, and effortlessly elegant. Today, chintz is less about nostalgia and more about storytelling: a romantic thread that ties past to present with colour, pattern, and quiet drama.'
Maximalism doesn't have to roar; it can be a stylish, retro-inspired whisper.
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