Hello! This is Fynd, a reuse select shop.
Have you ever thought, "I want to make my room more stylish, but I don't want the same interior design as everyone else..." If that sounds like you, we highly recommend coordinating your home with unique and warm retro furniture.
This time, we will provide plenty of tips that are easy to understand even for those who are new to retro furniture, and will help you transform your room into a wonderful space!
What is retro furniture?
Retro furniture is furniture that combines nostalgia and modernity, and was mainly made between the 1950s and 1980s.Recently, it has become increasingly popular, especially among the younger generation, as it is seen as "warm and unique" and allows you to enjoy interior design that is different from others.
The appeal of this furniture lies in its unique texture that new furniture does not have and its sturdy construction made by artisans. It is also gaining attention as environmental awareness increases and interest in reuse and recycling grows.
Types and characteristics of retro furniture
1. Showa Retro (1950s-1980s)
Characteristics: Warm wood, rounded shapes, warm colors like orange and brown
- low table, low table
- A sideboard with a blend of Japanese and Western styles
- Retro telephone stand
2. Mid-Century Modern (1940s-1960s)
Features: Simple and functional, balance of straight lines and curves, made of teak or walnut
- Eames-style chair
- Thin legged coffee table
- Geometric patterned fabric
3. Scandinavian Retro (1950s-1970s)
Features: Light wood, simple design, emphasis on functional beauty
- Scandinavian-style dining chairs
- Light-coloured sideboard
- Simple pendant light
Coordination examples by room
Living room: Creating a relaxing space
A low sofa and a low table are placed in the Showa retro style . Warm colored cushions and blankets add accents. A retro sideboard is placed against the wall to display your favorite accessories.
Placement points
- Align furniture heights to lower the line of sight
- Uniform wood color (dark brown)
- Indirect lighting creates a mood
Good accessories
- Enamel kettles and tableware
- Record jacket
- Houseplants (sansevieria, rubber tree)
A mid-century style sofa with thin legs and a low table create a clean impression, while geometric patterned rugs and cushions add a playful touch.
Placement points
- Showing the furniture legs creates a sense of openness
- Arrangement with straight lines in mind
- Monotone + 1 accent color
Dining: Make mealtimes special
A Scandinavian retro style dining table made of light wood is paired with colorful chairs. Pendant lights illuminate the table to create a dining atmosphere.
Placement points
- Table size should be less than 1/3 of the room
- The chairs have the same design but are stylish in different colors.
- The height of the pendant light is 60-70cm
Good accessories
- Nordic tableware (Arabia, Iittala style)
- Hemp or linen table runner
- Houseplants (pothos, ivy)
Bedroom: Enriched private space
A mix of Showa retro and modern . A retro side table is placed on a low bed frame. Indirect lighting creates a calm atmosphere.
Placement points
- Keep the area around the bed minimalist
- The side tables can be adjusted in height on the left and right.
- Choose a heavy material for the curtains
Good matching accessories
- Antique-style clock
- Indirect lighting (table lamp)
- dried flowers
Techniques for combining materials and colors
Differences in impression depending on the type of wood
- Teak: Luxurious and mature
- Oak: natural and approachable
- Walnut: Chic and modern
The basics of color coordination
The 70:25:5 rule
- Base color 70% (walls, floors, large furniture)
- Assorted colors 25% (sofa, curtains)
- Accent color 5% (cushions, accessories)
Color combinations that go well with retro furniture
- Warm colors: orange x brown x beige
- Cool colors: turquoise, gray, and white
- Earth tones: khaki, terracotta, and cream
Golden Rules of Placement
1. Ensure smooth flow of traffic
Leave at least 60cm of aisle space between furniture. In particular, in the dining room, it is best to leave at least 80cm to allow for easy access to chairs.
2. Create a clear line of sight
By not placing furniture along all the walls and leaving some gaps, the space feels more spacious.
3. Create a difference in elevation
By varying the height of your furniture, you can create rhythm in the space.
Compatibility with houseplants
The following houseplants go well with retro furniture:
large plants
- Ficus benghalensis (with a striking presence)
- Umbellata (soft impression)
medium sized plants
- Monstera (for a more retro look)
- Sansevieria (sharp impression)
small plants
- Pothos (fits anywhere)
- Ivy (beautiful drooping)
Care and Maintenance
Tips for enjoying retro furniture for a long time
wooden furniture
- Regularly wipe away dust
- Oil maintenance once or twice a year
- Avoid direct sunlight
fabric
- Clean it frequently with a vacuum cleaner
- The golden rule is to deal with stains as soon as possible
- Consider professional cleaning
summary
When coordinating retro furniture, it is important not just to put old items on display, but to understand the historical context and arrange them to suit modern lifestyles.
The key to success is...
- Selecting consistent colors and materials
- Appropriate placement and traffic flow
- Harmony with small items and plants
Why not create a special space that is different from anyone else's using unique retro furniture?
Fynd, a reuse select shop, stocks a wide selection of carefully selected antique and vintage furniture. Please come and see, touch, and find the perfect one-of-a-kind piece for your room. Our experienced staff will also be happy to assist you with coordination advice.
