Retro Decor: How to Upgrade with a Touch of Nostalgia



Posted: Friday, December 14, 2007

by
Discover Davis Homes

Styles are sometimes fads. Occasionally, there is something  classic in a particular style. What is classic, holds value and remains  beautiful, while trends pass by within the year. The savvy homeowner, who wants  to improve and decorate with a retro flair, should be able to distinguish a  classic retro design from trendy fads. Here are some helpful hints to direct  you towards the right way to "retro fit" your home.

  Today's contemporary look involves a carefully chosen display of classic pieces  from the past. Often homeowners are so excited to go retro that they jump into  changes that may be too drastic. Think touches, rather than a complete  overhaul. Start with a cohesive, overall vision of how you want your home to  look, then slowly build on this plan. You will then be able to see where you  can push the edges and where you need to exercise restraint. This approach may  also save you money in the long run. Touches are not as expensive as overhaul  items: retro gas range, retro appliances, etc.

Retro, is a vague term for anything from a relatively  distant past. Specify what era you are getting at- perhaps what decade. From  here, think of what palette you are adding these touches onto. You might have a  home that is Asian inspired. Imagine and  visualize an era that suits this style, like certain aspects of the mid century  modern period. (1945-1965) From here, you can begin to blend the two dominant styles  harmoniously. Your retro additions should serve as complimentary accents that  won't run the risk of looking garish or just plain old.

Another approach to your plan is to concentrate on one room.  A new, clean paint job, alongside some colorful vintage glass pieces, could be  just the right touch. Speaking of paint, wall color is a simple way to  retro-grade a space. Try painting one stand-out wall in a bold nostalgic  color. You can then accent the room with pieces that compliment that color. The  great things about paint is that is satisfies the urge to go big, or go home.  You can make a strong statement with wall color, but if you end up detesting  you color choice, re-painting is not the end of the world.

Personalization is important. Pick retro pieces that  inspire you, and that you love. Don't choose something simply because it belongs  in the era you are decorating with.

If you are looking for retro touches, the mid century modern  era  is  easy  to start with. You can hunt for unique pieces  that are funky, yet classic in design. What came out of the mid century modern  design movement, was the production of pieces that were all about economy;  economy in terms of price, but also in relation to space and design. The dominant style of this era focused on function, simplicity and natural shapes. Many  furniture designers of this era had backgrounds in sculpture. Pieces of the mid  century modern era worked with classic lines based on logic and elegance. It is hard to go wrong with classic lines.

Here are some ideas for retro or retro inspired mid century pieces to  accent your home. It is great if you can find originals that you love. In this day and age, there are also multitudes of great knock-offs out there.

- Teak furniture, new or used (1950's)

- Blenko Glass, new or used (1060's)

- Modern wall clocks (1950-1960's)

- Sussex Credenza (1950-60's)

- Eames plywood chair (1950-60's)

- Noguchi Table (1950-60's)

Remember, however you go about adding retro flair, a home that is put together with a careful, artistic eye, is  a beautiful home. Enjoy the process and the hunt, as you bring together the  past and present for a classic home décor, with a new retro look.

For further information on Davis California real estate contact Carolyn Gjerde-Tu. Carolyn, is a Davis California real estate agent.  Her expertise is  invaluable, whether you are buying or selling in the Davis, Woodland or the Greater Sacramento areas.

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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
» left by Anonymous
 4 years 34 days ago.
Great tips!
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