Exquisite Design Concepts for Creating a Dazzling Retro Elegance Aura
Going for that glorious, vintage vibe? The allure of retro glamour is finding its way back into our homes and hearts. This extravagant design style combines the enchanting elegance of bygone eras with the sophistication of modernity, resulting in sanctuaries that are as unique as they are luxurious. Here's a rundown of expert-approved tips to bring that classic Hollywood charm into your own space.
- Mike Garbis is the Creative Director at Garbis Design Studio, a design firm praised for its encyclopedic knowledge of vintage aesthetics.
- Liz Collins is the founder and Creative Director of Liz Collins Design, a London-based design studio known for its interplay of classic and contemporary styles.
Understanding Retro Glamour
To gain a better appreciation of retro glamour, let's hear from Mike Garbis, the Creative Director at Garbis Design Studio. "Retro glamour draws inspiration from the most glamorous eras of the 20th century, marrying the grandeur of Art Deco, the flair of Hollywood Regency, the sleek sophistication of Art Moderne, and the glitzy opulence of the 1970s," says Garbis. "In a world that can often feel overwhelming, we seek comfort in our homes, longing for sanctuaries that cocoon us and indulge us. Retro-glam interiors take us back to a seemingly simpler time where rich materials, elegant forms, and decorative drama ruled."
What's fueling the retro glamour comeback? In an age of mass production and digital saturation, people yearn for authenticity, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. They look back to the past to gather inspiration, creating interiors that narrate tales while offering an indulgent, luxurious experience. Liz Collins, founder of Liz Collins Design, notes, "Today, people are more open-minded than ever, with an insatiable curiosity about history and a desire for individuality. Authenticity matters more than ever."
Experiencing Retro Glamour at Home
The retro glamour aesthetic is more than just a fashion statement; it's an opportunity to embrace the romantic nostalgia of bygone eras while affirming the path to modernity. The key lies in balancing the past and present, resulting in spaces that are both timeless and undeniably unique. Follow these design tips to create your very own retro glamour haven.
7 Retro-inspired Decor Ideas to Spice Up Your Space ### 1. Celebrate Historical Differences
The appeal of retro glamour is its ability to mix design influences from various periods. "A home with character houses depth. Mixing pieces from different eras elevates interiors, giving them a narrative," says Collins. Start by showcasing the history of your property by incorporating period details from your building, like intricate moldings or wainscoting, then add an eclectic assortment of items from various eras, such as Mid-Century modern furniture or Victorian mirrors. The contrast between timeless architectural details and contemporary accents creates a sense of depth and intrigue.
2. Introduce Vibrant Hues
Color plays a significant role in creating vintage glamour. Introduce bold, rich tones like royal purple, emerald green, or sapphire blue through upholstery, wall art, or accessories. These vibrant shades establish an atmosphere of self-assured opulence that feels both inviting and dramatic.
3. Pair Antique and Modern Pieces
The chemistry between antique and modern furnishings is magic. A Richard Neutra-inspired sofa paired with a Regency-style console or a 1950s sideboard next to a mid-century armchair creates an engaging dialogue between eras. The retro glamour aesthetic thrives on contrast, preventing spaces from appearing overly themed while remaining fresh and intriguing.
4. Decorate with Statement Accessories
Vintage accents such as ornate picture frames, decorative trays, and Art Deco-inspired lamps elevate the design scheme while imparting a sense of refinement. "These details add polish to the overall look, ensuring every element is thoughtfully considered," says Collins.
5. Experiment with Lavish Finishes
Luxurious materials like lacquered furniture, velvet-upholstered seating, and polished marble surfaces infuse spaces with richness and indulgent flair. These chic finishes create a polished aesthetic that feels both timeless and undeniably luxurious.
6. Incorporate Mirror and Glass Accents
Mirrors, Lucite furniture, smoked glass, and crystal accents amplify light and create an air of mystery. These reflective elements bolster the vibrant ambiance of the space while reinforcing the exuberant nature of the style.
7. Curate a Collection
A home designed with one-of-a-kind pieces exudes an air of authenticity and personalization. "A well-curated space feels more cohesive and thoughtful than one with impersonal furniture," says Garbis. Gather unique decor pieces, statement furniture, and eye-catching art that tell a story, ensuring each piece feels intentional and thoughtfully selected.
- Mike Garbis, the Creative Director at Garbis Design Studio, explains that retro glamour is a design style influenced by the grandeur of Art Deco, the flair of Hollywood Regency, the sleek sophistication of Art Moderne, and the glitzy opulence of the 1970s.
- In a world seeking comfort and sanctuary, Liz Collins, founder of Liz Collins Design, notes that the retro-glam interior design trend is driven by the desire for authenticity, craftsmanship, and exclusivity.
- To create a retro-glamour haven, one should celebrate historical differences by showcasing period details from the building and mixing pieces from various eras.
- Vibrant hues such as royal purple, emerald green, or sapphire blue add an atmosphere of self-assured opulence.
- Pairing antique and modern furnishings creates an engaging dialogue between eras, preventing spaces from appearing overly themed while remaining fresh and intriguing.
- Decorating with statement accessories like ornate picture frames, decorative trays, and Art Deco-inspired lamps elevates the design scheme and adds refinement to the overall look.
- Incorporating lavish finishes, like lacquered furniture, velvet-upholstered seating, and polished marble surfaces, imparts a sense of richness and indulgent flair.
- Mirrors, Lucite furniture, smoked glass, and crystal accents amplify light and create an air of mystery, reinforcing the exuberant nature of the style.
- A well-curated space with unique decor pieces, statement furniture, and eye-catching art tells a story, ensuring that each piece feels intentional and thoughtfully selected.
