JOIN USReturn of the retro styles
There has always been a fascination with the old world; designers constantly draw inspiration from styles that are now considered passé, and you really cannot blame them because there truly is something very captivating about retro trends. Adopting the yesteryear feel in homes has become the latest craze, with people wanting to have at least a piece of retro furniture that is reminiscent of the decorative styles of the era gone by.
The love for antique furniture has only grown over the years and city dwellers have not only opted for retro furniture, but have also taken to other elements, like lighting and colour schemes that can recreate the old-world feel in their homes. While some prefer sticking to pure retro, others like a touch of modernity in it, just to balance it out.
Going back in time
“I always had a hobby of collecting antiques; many of the pots and old bronze utensils that adorn my showcase are all part of my collection. A lot of my furniture is really old and I could never throw it away and hence, I refurbished them and now they look beautiful,” says William D’costa, writer and proud antiquarian. Pointing to the usage of the words
antique, vintage and retro synonymously, he remarks that they had all got it wrong. It purely is an abuse of the terms, he said. While vintage and antiques are objects that belong to a certain bygone period, retro furniture need not belong to that age and can be brand new, designed in a manner evocative of a particular era’s design ethos.
Agreeing with him, Monica Shekar, co-founder of Be Vintage, says that furniture from different periods of time would have varied designs. Within retro itself which include the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s, the designs and motifs differ. “The trend for vintage and retro furniture was always present in the west, due to extensive travelling and exposure to the West. The trend has now reached our cities as well. Retro furniture helps break the monotony while simultaneously brings a personality to the space it is placed in,” she explains.
Furniture is the essence of the house; it defines who you are, believes B S Abhineet, co-founder of Be Vintage. “By looking at a single piece of furniture, you can tell if that person likes simple or intricate work, appreciates art or is just an admirer,” he says.
There are certain patterns, designs and colours characteristic of retro furniture. Stripes, checks, polka dots, geometric prints, paisley and florals in muted colours are all retro patterns and designs. “There are also distinct colours that bring the old charm back to the house, even if it is a new piece of furniture designed to seem belonging to a specific retro decade.
Monica elaborates that pastel shades, salmon pink, sea foam green, and teal, neon colours and the ever-loved black and white are very retro. They also go very well with wooden furniture and hence are preferred. Furniture is not the only way to convert your home to look and feel vintage, wallpapers, wall colours and lighting can also be changed. But that requires a lot of time and patience, and can leave a deep hole in your pocket. So it is best to let your love for the vintage lose by changing or refurbishing old furniture.
Here is a checklist to help get the right retro look for your home:
Art on walls
Vintage art and wall decor like huge mirrors, photo frames and wall hangings can be distinctly placed for a retro feel. Flea markets with second-hand vintage art work can be used throughout a wall, two or more can be teamed up to create the perfect ensemble. Jewellery cases, plate hangings, vintage signs and retro photo frames with sepia or black and white photos are the best. They resonate with traditional western designs. Monica says, “Chalkboard frames are the perfect way to add a fun element in one’s home.”
Retro lighting
The right kind of lighting is what will make you travel back in time. “Floor lamps, table lamps, hanging lamps or even chandeliers are very important elements,” states Abhineet. Retro metal arc floor lamps, aluminium fixtures, pendant lights with steel finish are some other elements that you could use.
Old is gold
If there are any old household objects like a television set, radio or ash trays, you can repaint them or place them strategically to add depth and character. Upcycled barn doors and iron gates could also be used uniquely to reflect your artistic taste in vintage designing. This is more DIY and only requires your creativity.
Vintage furniture
Since retro is minimalist, accent chairs are best. It is just one chair that is well thought out and placed in a space so as to enhance the feel of the room and complement other furniture while not blending with them. Chairs of the 70s to 80s blend well with modern furniture and it has a lot of straight lines. It has more decorations and carvings. Danish chairs are slightly rounded and projects old-feel aesthetics, she adds. Monica suggests a colourful accent chair so as to break the monotony of the room. Old-fashioned decor lends a beautiful charm to any space. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time you made that journey back in time!