Channel the 70s but with a modern twist. That’s the vibe of the refined retro interior design style that’s making a revival. Simple, yet timeless, it’s an aesthetic that will ensure your home stands out from the sea of Hamptons and ultra contemporary interiors.
‘I’ve brought this design style to life in the Marseille 32 at Redstone Estate in Sunbury and the result is simply stunning, with a plethora of bowed lines, tan timber, and pops of caramel and dusty pink,’ says Mitra Whittle, Senior Interior Designer.
‘While the style definitely feels familiar, especially to those who lived through the 60s and 70s, its elegant and contemporary edge is also readily enjoyed by the next generation.’
Below, Mitra explains how you can incorporate the refined retro interior design in your own home.
1. Choose a feature colour but then add a pop of black
Select a warm, neutral colour palette that includes off-white, tan and caramel for the majority of your selections and furnishings. Then, insert your personality with a pop of your favourite colour.
‘Dusty pinks and purples work to create a sense of calm and comfort while fitting perfectly with the refined retro interior design trend. But the 60s and 70s were also known for their shades of green, turquoise and yellow,’ says Mitra.
You can also further modernise the concept by adding a moody selection of grey and black, particularly through your hard surfaces. Grey floor tiling, carpets and sheers provide the perfect canvas for the playfulness of this style.
‘Pair Polytec’s Boston Oak Woodmatt cabinetry with Cinder shades to give the retro style that contemporary flavour,’ says Mitra.
‘Capitalise on this dramatic look by incorporating black metal detailing into your furniture and black mosaic splashbacks to your wet areas.’
Read more: 7 steps to consider for the perfect bathroom design
Complete the look with dark tapware, handles and feature lighting.
2. Play with timber and wallpapers
This style is all about contrasts! Dark and light; natural and man-made; colour and the absence of colour. Timber provides a beautiful organic contrast to the darker, modern elements of this design. But you can also create contrasts using the timber itself.
‘Consider adding dark painted VJ panelling to your dining room and island bench, offset with a natural timber table and feature pendant,’ suggests Mitra.
‘When it comes to furniture, select clean-lined natural and teak timber stains that nod to the 60s and 70s – think inset handles and plenty of curves.’
You can also use wallpaper to personalise individual bedrooms, while maintaining the authenticity of the retro era. For example, terrazzo wallpaper offers a more mature element to your adult guest bedrooms. For kids’ rooms, utilise fun designs through your feature colours.
3. Style your space with eclectic elements
Elevate your living spaces with abstract paintings and retro-inspired photography. Keep your bedding and soft furnishings simple and in blocked colours, while adding decorative throw cushions.
‘Stick to textured fabrics, including the ever-fashionable boucle and tweed,’ suggests Mitra.
‘Potted plants and reflective surfaces are important no matter what interior design you choose. So, don’t forget to hang a few feature mirrors in your living and dining spaces and add plenty of foliage to your living areas.’
Love this style and want to see it in person?
Discover the Marseille 32 at Redstone Estate in Sunbury and explore the refined-retro design style.
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