That 70’s Couch and Plenty More Ideas on Creating Your Own Retro Living Room
If you’re looking for a way to add some personality to your home, why not go retro? Achieving a vintage-inspired living room doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With a little creativity and some thrift store finds, you can easily create a one-of-a-kind space that is both stylish and unique. Here’s how:
Get Back to Basic
When it comes to interior design, many people are drawn to the timeless appeal of a classic, retro aesthetic. But what makes up this beloved look? A basic understanding of retro design starts with a few core principles.
First and foremost: colour schemes. Retro designs often play with playful, vibrant colour palettes. Think bright yellows, magentas and aquas. Material choice is also key; natural materials like wood, metal and glass were popular for their simplicity and ostensible commitment to an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Finally, furniture choices are another major factor: Retro-style decor often emphasises seating around tables or chairs in full sets, leaning towards mid-century modern pieces. With this foundation in mind, you can begin experimenting with your elements to craft the perfect statement space that pays homage to the classic style you love!
Remind Yourself Which Brings You Back to the Last Century
Speaking of furniture, a retro living room conjures up images of vintage furnishings, colours that bring to mind the past century and a cosy atmosphere. To create a retro style in your living room, furniture pieces can be richly upholstered with nostalgic colours like powder blue velvet, buttery yellow, mustard and avocado green.
Many furniture styles associated with mid-century modern furniture are thought of as ideal for this kind of look – from the iconic Eames lounge chair to Scandinavian furniture designs. Heavy furniture pieces, like solid wood tables or wicker chairs, can also help anchor the look. Pops of bright colours can be added through accessories such as floral throw pillows or coloured glass vases on display.
Layering rugs with vibrant geometric patterns are also a common retro element to get right. Oversized rugs in bold colours and different textures can form an upscale feel while still embracing this style. Finally, adding a functional bar cart replete with classic cocktails and barware further enhances the groovy vibe of your living room!
Find a Middle Ground
Now, if you’re looking to give your home a modern, yet timeless feel, consider incorporating traditional carpet covering into its décor. Not only can carpeting add warmth and texture – perfect for tiled or linoleum floors – but types like jute rugs can also bring natural elements into the space.
For a modern look, select a carpet with neutral colours that won’t distract from other features in the room. Layering different carpet styles is also a great way to add texture to any space; why not try pairing classic kilims with sisals, or even placing an area rug on top of the carpet? Just make sure you’re selecting a carpet with quality materials that will last for years.
Captivate Your Vibe With the Right Colour
If you want to create an eye-catching living room setup that stands out from the crowd, bold colours and patterns are key. You can start by choosing a vibrant paint colour for your walls, or opt for a statement wallpaper to cover up dull surfaces. Then think about adding some accent pieces like cushions with bold geometric designs, patterned curtains, or a brightly coloured ottoman.
Layering multiple textures and colours will bring the design together and give it a sophisticated yet modern feel. Lastly, make sure your furniture complements the overall look you’re going for and choose more subtle tones that won’t clash with the brighter colour palette.
It’s the Little Things That Make the Difference
Adding a few well-chosen vintage accessories can help to complete the look of a retro living room. A good place to start your search is at local thrift stores, garage sales, or even online platforms like eBay.
You might be surprised at the hidden gems you can find for a fraction of the cost of buying new. Of course, it’s important to make sure that any vintage finds are in good condition before bringing them into your home. Once you’ve found the perfect pieces, it’s simply a matter of incorporating them into your existing décor. For example, an old metal sign could make a great addition to a wall collage, while an antique vase could be used to hold fresh flowers on a side table.
Mix and Match, Trial and Error
Creating a unique space you and your family will love doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. When it comes to interior decorating, it often helps to think of yourself as an artist! Consider each room like a blank canvas and start mixing and matching different elements to create a design that truly reflects your personality, style, and needs.
To begin, pick one or two furniture pieces, such as a sofa or coffee table, as the main focus for the room. Then, layer in additional items such as rugs, throw pillows, wall art, and accessories to bring the room together. After all is said and done, try using natural lighting to showcase the finished product – you may be surprised by the blending of colours that you have created! Have fun mixing and matching different elements and enjoy creating your own unique space.
Conclusion
Retro design is making a comeback and for good reason – it’s stylish, comfortable, and nostalgic. If you want to add a touch of retro flair to your living room, there are a few key pieces and colours you should start with. The points above have guided you through some ways to incorporate these elements into your home in a modern way, so go experiment and have fun! Don’t be afraid to use bold colours and patterns or mix different styles. And don’t forget to accessorise with vintage finds or replicas to complete the look. With a little bit of creativity, you can create a stunning retro living room that will make all your friends jealous.