A Passion for vintage
It’s a conundrum: now we are well and truly into the 21st century, why do we still look back to find inspiration for a truly modern way of living? It’s ironic that we look to the past to create interiors that are in the vanguard of fashion. But, without a doubt, retro style still has enormous appeal.
The 12-foot curved sectional sofa probably dates from the 1980s, while the circular ottoman is likely to be a 1950s piece
The 12-foot curved sectional sofa probably dates from the 1980s, while the circular ottoman is likely to be a 1950s pieceLiving retro does not demand close adherence to any particular set of style rules. There are no limits other than the chronological parameters the look spans, roughly from the 1950s to the late 1970s. Instead, living retro is a multi-faceted look that ranges from sophisticated glamour to pared-down chic. It’s all about having the confidence to live with the things we love, and to put them together in a way that suits our own particular circumstances.
The Harry Bertoia wide chair for Knoll dates from 1956
Those who choose to live retro generally fall into one of three categories. First there are the purists – perfectionists who seek to recreate a specific moment in time in their home, and to put together an interior that is entirely faithful to the building that houses it, so the whole interior conjures up one look, one era. Alternatively, you may have a certain signature style of your own, and this trademark look will be stamped upon your home, no matter how often you move or where you may go. Finally, there are the maximalists among us, magpies who have a passion for collecting vintage pieces and proudly displaying our favourite finds.
Left: A vintage starburst clock by Westclock hangs on the chimney breast. Centre: The ceramic-topped nesting tables, by Roger Capron, were made in France in the 1970s. Right: An Arne Jacobsen tan leather Egg Chair, 1958
Do you recognise yourself? Whichever category you fall into, you are living retro.
Living Retro, by Andrew Weaving, with photography by Andrew Wood, is published by Ryland Peters & Small, £19.99.
The Harry Bertoia wide chair for Knoll dates from 1956Those who choose to live retro generally fall into one of three categories. First there are the purists – perfectionists who seek to recreate a specific moment in time in their home, and to put together an interior that is entirely faithful to the building that houses it, so the whole interior conjures up one look, one era. Alternatively, you may have a certain signature style of your own, and this trademark look will be stamped upon your home, no matter how often you move or where you may go. Finally, there are the maximalists among us, magpies who have a passion for collecting vintage pieces and proudly displaying our favourite finds.
Left: A vintage starburst clock by Westclock hangs on the chimney breast. Centre: The ceramic-topped nesting tables, by Roger Capron, were made in France in the 1970s. Right: An Arne Jacobsen tan leather Egg Chair, 1958Do you recognise yourself? Whichever category you fall into, you are living retro.
Living Retro, by Andrew Weaving, with photography by Andrew Wood, is published by Ryland Peters & Small, £19.99.