Long Before It Was a Trend, James Brolin’s ’70s Living Room Was Already Doing the Ralph Lauren Look
Stone details, heritage fabrics, and rich wood in archival images of the actor’s living room embody the stunning Americana aesthetic 50 years before it was a trend
Though ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas’ has been on everyone’s lips this holiday season, the aesthetic itself is guaranteed to last long beyond the festive period. In 2026, we’re guaranteed to see the rich textures, storied prints, and American luxury embodied in the Ralph Lauren look popping up in a range of homes. In fact, the aesthetic has been around for much longer than it was a trend, as evidenced by photographs of James Brolin’s Ralph Lauren living room in 1973.
Images of the actor posed in his California home show a space bathed in the cozy, old-money aesthetic. James poses against a stone fireplace, accented with a warm wood shelf and bronze candlesticks. The textiles across the room increase the warmth of the classic decor. From woven throws to a leather sofa to a brown and white cowhide rug, every inch of the space feels like an homage to earthy Ralph Lauren style. A mid-century light in the corner grounds the space and gives it an interestingly eclectic spin that fits right in with the room’s Western flair.
The proximity of James’s design to current interior design trends is in line with the synergy between Ralph Lauren style and ‘70s design trends. Both styles favor rich materials, a tendency towards color, and pattern drenching. Thus, many looks associated with the ‘70s will trend in 2026 as the Ralph Lauren look grows ever more popular.
Recreate James's Look at Home
This beautiful trunk has a natural, inviting feel just like the one in James Brolin's living room. It would be gorgeous paired with a richly textured carpet or styled with brass accents.
There is nothing more alluring than the traditional style of a brown and white cowhide rug. This one would look perfect with wooden furniture, or could be styled with white for a more modern look.
An accent pillow can elevate even the simplest sofa into a bold statement. This traditional pattern would be gorgeous paired with a wood couch for a look similar to James's.
For instance, we’re seeing in increase in search for richer and more luxurious materials, such as the leather, hide, and stone featured in James Brolin’s living room idea. Hannah Armstrong, Senior Furniture Buyer and interiors expert at Heal’s explains: ‘We’ve seen an interesting combination of both heritage and refined materials increasing in popularity. Mohair has seen an 87% increase in sales YoY, whilst leather has seen a 65% increase. These natural materials are making a comeback and will add a timeless luxury touch to homes.’
The brass candlesticks and mid-century light in James Brolin’s home also find their place in 2026 interior design trends. Hannah states: ‘Alongside these more natural materials, we have seen an increase in more refined, hard-touch materials such as steel, which has seen sales increase of 25% YoY. We’ve also spotted an on-site customer search increase of 114% for glass and 67% for chrome. Combined, these materials play perfectly into the 70s nostalgia. Think chrome and leather magazine holders, glass coffee tables, and mohair throws!’ These shifts perfectly align with the increasing popularity of the Ralph Lauren style.
As style shifts, some classic looks will never fade. With its prevalence of rich materials and story-driven pieces, the Ralph Lauren look is one such aesthetic. Just as it looked chic 50 years ago, so it will 50 years in the future.
