Retro is making it onto our top 15 list for the first time this year, even though it has been trending for a while now. We’ve seen it in the popularity of the Eiffel chair by Charles and Ray Eames, vintage signage and fonts being used in anything from butcheries to weddings and architecture drawing inspiration again from Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian home concept from the first half of the 1900’s. A mix of styles from the 50’s, 60′ and 70’s made up of second hand and new objects presents a room that has sophisticated lines while being vibrant.
Retro style refers to new things that display characteristics of the past. It is mostly the recent past that retro seeks to recapitulate, focusing on the products, fashions and artistic styles produced since the Industrial Revolution, of Modernity. “Retro” suggests a half ironic, half longing consideration of the recent past; it has been called an unsentimental nostalgia, recalling modern forms that are no longer current.(Source) The materials being used are typical of a post- mechanized era but pre-computer technology. Materials like pressed wood and veneers, moulded foam and polypropelene are used to make everyday functional furniture.
Pretty and bright floral patterns in both random and regular patterns are an easy way to introduce the style through prints and scatters.
Display pretty kitchenware in retro patterns or vintage boardgames as quirky and inexpensive wall art.
Retro lighting has such wonderful forms that you most likely own some already! Opt for a 70’s colour palette or try oversized for a contemporary twist.
Retro can be fun too! Use old pieces from thrift stores and combine them with other essentials to create a warm and colourful nursery or kid’s room.
Rethinking that sentimental piece that you’ve been storing in the attic for years can turn it into a functional piece of furniture or a nostalgic display. With a some love and a bit of paint in a cool colour it can be transformed into a covetable focal!
Happy Decorating!
