When you think retro style you think eclectic, funky and hippy. The term retro is loosely used to refer to something from older times. In interior design, it’s not just older times, but a specific older time- the mid-20th century. It’s sometimes interchanged with vintage, but they are two different concepts.
RETRO VS VINTAGE
Vintage style refers more to the Victorian era, neoclassical designs. Mostly designs that are over a century old. Retro is more specific to a period; it refers to the fashion, lifestyle, music, art and designs of that period.
The retro style in interior design focuses on the funky trend of the 1950s to 70s. Remember those times? Even if you don’t because you’re too young, you’ve heard stories from your parents or older relatives about what life was like back then. That time was the beginning of a lot of impactful movements. It was a period when people were embracing freedom and being expressive. This impacted the art and designs produced at that time.
Incorporating retro into your home design is primarily adding a feeling of nostalgia to your home.
CHARACTERISTICS OF RETRO STYLE
Retro pulls inspiration from the fashion and aura of that era that embraces freedom, funk and hippy culture.
Bold colours, florals, shiny leather, geometric patterns, synthetic materials, bright hues and disco are all characteristics of retro style. Unlike minimalist style, retro is big on unusually shaped furniture. Abstract art forms, plastics and PVC materials are also staples of this era.
Retro is known for bold graphics and psychedelic art. Remember those large records your dad had and used as decorations? They were always so bold, bright and colourful. And those vinyl and large vinyl players with the disco lights? That was the peak of the era that influenced the retro style.
For furniture, think of unusual shapes and forms. Retro-style furniture embraces the abstract beauty of things. Abstract but not impractical. For walls, colourful and patterned wallpaper and geometric rugs are ideal. In colours, bright colours and earthy tones like brown and red also work. For lighting, think neon lights, colourful fluorescents and statement lighting. Function is hardly a determining factor when going retro; it’s more about creating lively and fun forms.
You can contact Zynoplus and speak to an experienced designer for more inspiration or consultation on going retro.