No, it's definitely not
old-fashioned! Retro decorating is back -- and in a big
way! Bring your home to life with a cool, swinging 60's or
groovy 70's, retro vibe.
Retro really is the modern
look right now. To get the look right, don't just go for a
historically accurate replication -- go for a really
modern twist - be retro inspired!
What a great opportunity to
scour eBay, charity shops and jumble sales -- or just
rummage through your loft. You could find some really
wonderful retro decorating treasures, and get a great
bargain to boot! But don't worry, if you can't quite find
that interesting family heirloom -- there are loads of
retro-inspired goodies in stores right now.
A wonderful color to form
the basis of any retro decorating scheme is brown. Choose
any shade which you like, and which goes well in your
room. Stick to the color rules -- paler colors for small
rooms, and deep colors for larger spaces -- that is,
unless you are after a really dramatic 70's look -- a deep
chocolate brown is a gorgeously retro shade!
Paint is a great way to
introduce a touch of brown into your color scheme --
wallpaper is even better! Look out for retro-inspired
wallpapers -- choose bold, geometric patterns, such as
lines, stripes, squares and circles. You want to make a
really bold statement with your retro wallpaper -- it
should be the main focal point of your retro decorating
scheme.
While brown is a great
basis for your retro decorating scheme, you really need to
add an accent color -- to bring a real zing' of life into
your room. Try orange, lime green, teal or turquoise, for
a great retro feel.
You should try to keep your
retro decorating quite simple -- definitely nothing too
fussy! You want to make a bold, dramatic statement with
vibrant colors and bold shapes.
This holds true for your
choice of furniture design too -- the form and shape of
your furniture should be kept simple -- but beautiful at
the same time! Look out for retro design classics --
lovely, sweeping curves and a strong outline. Think
classic, Scandinavian-inspired design, or the famous 'Egg'
chair. Choose mid to dark toned wood pieces for your
furniture, a simple white or go for a head-turning, retro,
vibrant orange.
Your lighting is actually a
very important factor to consider to get the retro feel
right on trend. A pull-down pendant-light, in a
retro-inspired shade would work really well.
Think carefully about your
mood lighting too -- there are plenty of opportunities
here, to get that retro feel just right. It is really
important to create that relaxed, mellow vibe in your room
-- creating a warm, orange glow is a great way to get the
look. A simple orange plastic or acrylic shade, on a
neutral lamp base would look great. Or, try rattan or
basket weave lampshades.
You can't possibly do
without that ultimate retro classic -- the lava lamp!
Your flooring should be
kept nice and neutral, with so many bright colors around
-- accessorize with a white, fluffy, sheepskin or flokati
rug.
Texture is a great retro trend, so make the most of
it to get your retro look -- add plenty of fluffy,
faux-fur throws and cushions. These will give your room a
really warm, comfortable and cozy feel.
Choose some simple,
retro-style accessories for that perfect finishing touch.
Wow!
So, what are you waiting
for -- it's back to the future -- with a modern, retro
look!
Be inspired by retro
decorating for an ultra-modern trend. Make a retro
statement, and you will soon see that wow factor in your
own home.
Author's URL: http://www.interior-design-it-yourself.com
Charlylou has studied professional interior design, to
really make her home decorating schemes come alive. Check
out her website, and she can help you to use interior
design tips and techniques to bring that wow factor into
your own home.
