10 Tricks to Give Your Home That I Love Lucy Charm

Lucy and Ricky Ricardo’s New York apartment is one of TV’s most iconic sets. It was stylish for its time, but also practical for a family living in the city. If you want to bring a little of that I Love Lucy charm into your own home, focus on mid-century details, cozy touches, and a dash of playful personality.

Mid-Century Furniture Shapes

The Ricardo apartment leaned into clean, mid-century silhouettes.

Look for tapered-leg sofas, round coffee tables, and armchairs with simple lines. Even affordable reproductions capture that 1950s look without being dated.

Plaid and Floral Patterns

Lucy’s décor often mixed plaid and floral fabrics.

Add patterned curtains, tablecloths, or accent pillows in vintage-inspired prints. It creates that homey, nostalgic feel.

Compact Dining Areas

Their dining space was small but efficient.

Use drop-leaf tables, bistro sets, or round tables to make the most of tight dining rooms while still looking stylish.

Built-In Shelving

The Ricardos used built-ins to maximize storage.

Add floating shelves or bookcases around doorways to create that same functional but polished effect.

Bold Kitchen Colors

Kitchens in the 1950s leaned into bold hues—think red, green, and yellow.

Bring that to your own kitchen with colorful appliances, retro toasters, or painted cabinets. Even a pop of red cookware nods to Lucy’s era.

Cheerful Curtains

Windows in the show were often dressed with playful fabrics.

Try gingham or floral café curtains in your kitchen or breakfast nook. They add lightness and character.

Gallery Walls of Photos

Family photos were front and center in Lucy and Ricky’s space.

Create a gallery wall with black-and-white family photos in classic frames. It’s a timeless way to personalize your home.

Playful Accessories

Lucy’s style always had a sense of fun.

Add quirky accessories—like vintage telephones, retro vases, or bold wall art—to give your rooms personality without going overboard.

Warm Lighting

Soft table lamps and sconces added warmth to their rooms.

Swap out harsh overhead bulbs for warm-toned table lamps with fabric shades. This makes your space instantly cozier.

Cozy Rugs

Even in their small apartment, rugs grounded each space.

Layer in patterned rugs under your dining or coffee table to tie the room together while adding comfort underfoot.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.