Ever feel like your home is missing a little extra character? Perhaps it’s time to infuse it with some retro inspiration. Whether you're drawn to the bold colours of the '70s or the sleek silhouettes of mid-century modern design, there’s something undeniably fun about retro interiors. The best part? You can achieve the look without knocking down walls or refinishing the floors.
Retro design is all about expressing bold, unique style—and that's a philosophy we embrace wholeheartedly at DROOL. Our curated collection of contemporary art prints features standout work from emerging and independent artists, which will make it easy to fill your space with creativity that feels both vintage-inspired and refreshingly modern.
Ready to transform your space into something fresh and new, but with a vintage twist? Here are some practical, no-renovation tips to bring that retro flair into your home with thoughtful design choices that are as easy as they are impactful:
1) Feature Statement Retro-Inspired Art Prints
Art has the power to transform any space it’s a part of, and retro-inspired prints are a brilliant, yet effortless way to channel some exceptional vintage charm. From bold pop art and eye-catching typography to nostalgic colour palettes, you have many choices for the right piece to instantly set the tone and become a focal point of any room it’s featured in.
Explore DROOL’s curated collection to find art posters and prints that balance retro appeal with a modern edge. Look through our pages for striking geometric designs paired with minimalist furniture or softer, nostalgic hues that can be layered into a neutral space. Thoughtful framing, like sleek black for a mid-century vibe or natural wood for a cosy touch, can further enhance the effect, creating a look that’s timeless, cohesive, and full of personality.
2) Introduce Iconic Retro Colour Palettes
The right colours do more than brighten a room; they can also bring history to life. Retro design thrives on daring, confident palettes that instantly evoke a specific era. Think mustard yellow cushions against a rich navy sofa for that '70s vibe, or pastel pink accents paired with warm woods to channel the playful charm of the '50s.
There’s no need to commit to repainting. You can start small with pillows in dynamic retro hues or drape a boldly patterned blanket over a neutral armchair. Soft furnishings, artwork, lampshades, or even ceramics can also add pops of colour to bring in that vintage energy.
3) Incorporate Vintage Textiles and Patterns
Retro design usually features a richness of textures and patterns, with iconic prints and indulgent fabrics bringing warmth and character to a space. Bold florals, atomic shapes, and plush textiles like velvet or chenille can instantly add a nostalgic flair to a space without demanding a huge overhaul for it. Layer soft furnishings such as cushions or throws with these details, and you’ll be able to create depth without overwhelming the room.
To make the most of these elements, focus on one or two standout pieces, like a patterned rug to ground the room or curtains with a subtle retro motif to frame the space. Thoughtful combinations of textiles and patterns will help establish a cohesive and nostalgic look that’s vibrant, yet inviting.
4) Style with Vintage-Inspired Decor and Accessories
Small details often make the biggest impact when styling a space with retro charm. Accessories like a rotary phone on the side table, a ceramic ashtray repurposed as a catchall, or a vintage alarm clock can bring just the right touch of nostalgic character. If genuine vintage finds feel out of reach, reproduction pieces can evoke an equally timeless aesthetic.
Look for accents that can spark curiosity and tie the room together. Playful, nostalgic, or unconventional decor can be the finishing touch that sets the mood. Consider pairing these accessories with statement art or furniture from the same era to create a look that feels thoughtful and purposeful.
5) Make Your Own Retro-Themed Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is an excellent way to feature retro personality and style in your home without needing to do any major renovations. Combine vintage treasures like old movie posters, old album covers, classic advertisements, or DROOL art prints and posters that nod to past decades through colour, typography, or composition.
For a more dynamic arrangement, start small with a few key pieces and let the collection grow organically. Play with frame styles, for example by mixing sleek wood with ornate brass or coloured frames like a GlowFrame by DROOL for a nostalgic, yet eclectic vibe. Whether you go for a symmetrical layout or an artfully mismatched display, your gallery wall can become a visually striking retro centrepiece for your home.
6) Play with Statement Lighting
Lighting is one of the easiest ways to evoke a vintage vibe without much hassle. Dome-shaped pendants, sculptural floor lamps, and frosted globe fixtures will all effortlessly channel mid-century or ‘70s aesthetics while adding warmth and style to your space.
Even the smallest updates can make a big impact. Replace a plain lampshade with one that’s textured or patterned, or place a retro-inspired table lamp on a console for an instant style boost. Simply rethink the form and ambience of your lighting to easily shift the atmosphere and echo the charm of a past era.
7) Revive the Look with Vintage-Inspired Greenery
Houseplants were a staple of 1970s interiors, bringing life and balance to bold retro designs. Their organic shapes and calming presence can still soften vibrant palettes and dramatic patterns, making them essential for recreating the look. Spider plants, snake plants, and monstera are all perfect choices for channelling vintage vibes while adding texture and colour to any area.
How you display these plants makes all the difference. Up the aesthetic factor even more with tiered stands, showcase the plants in ceramic pots with earthy tones, or let a macramé hanger swing stylishly in the corner. These little styling choices can make greenery feel like a design feature, not just an afterthought.
As seen from the tips above, creating a retro-inspired space doesn’t require a complete makeover on your part. With thoughtful updates and the right mix of colour, texture, and personality, you can transform any room into a distinctive haven filled with vintage charm.
Ready to start your design journey? Explore DROOL’s collection of art prints and find the perfect pieces to bring retro energy into your home—no renovation required. Browse our pages for vintage-inspired work or find your new favourite pieces through our Art Finder Quiz!
