DESIGN STYLE

Retro

You are cooler than cool! And you KNOW music! Of course, you have vinyls—lots of them. Your clothes are vintage, your hair a little wild. You’re a hipster, with a beat in your every step. The city is your kingdom, and you can’t get enough of the lights, the action, and the fun! You hang with the past, but your head is in the future.

STYLE QUIZ

Retro Modernist

Retro Warmth

Classically Retro

Design Style History: Retro

The history of retro interior design, particularly Mid-Century Modern (MCM), is a celebration of post-World War II optimism and innovation that flourished from the 1940s to the 1970s. Emerging as a response to the societal changes and technological advancements of the time, MCM design emphasized functionality, clean lines, and organic forms. Influenced by Bauhaus principles and Scandinavian design, MCM interiors featured iconic elements such as sleek furniture with tapered legs, bold geometric patterns, and a focus on open spaces and natural light. Architects and designers like Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, and Frank Lloyd Wright pioneered this style, creating iconic pieces of furniture and architectural marvels that defined the era. MCM design reached the height of its popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, becoming synonymous with the American Dream and a futuristic vision of modern living. While it fell out of favor in the following decades, MCM experienced a revival in the late 20th century, fueled by nostalgia and a renewed appreciation for its timeless appeal. Today, MCM remains a beloved design style, cherished for its blend of form and function, retro charm, and enduring influence on contemporary interior design.

Retro Materials

Vinyl

Vinyl upholstery and flooring were prevalent in retro interior design. It's durable, easy to clean, and comes in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns, adding a nostalgic touch.

Formica

Formica is a laminate material widely used in retro kitchen countertops and furniture. It's durable, heat-resistant, and available in an array of bold colors and decorative patterns.

Lucite

Lucite, also known as acrylic glass, is a transparent or translucent material commonly used in retro furniture and accessories. It has a sleek, futuristic appearance and adds a touch of modernity.

Teak

Teak is a popular wood material used in retro interior design for furniture and decor. It's known for its warm, rich tones and distinctive grain patterns.

Walnut

Walnut wood, renowned for its rich tones and timeless appeal, stands as a quintessential choice in retro design aesthetics. Its deep, warm hues and distinct grain patterns evoke a sense of nostalgia, effortlessly blending the essence of yesteryears with contemporary spaces.

Retro Must-Haves

Essentials:
MCM teak low wood furniture. Oversized retro prints. MCM color combos like burnt orange, muted green, gold, or yellow and gray. Mix bronze and glass to add sparkle. Starburst chandelier. Authentic MCM pieces like Eames Chair. Wood wall paneling or graphic wallpaper.

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