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Vintage Art Prints – What to Look For and How to Hang Them

Post author By Vintage
Post date 4th December 2022

Les Trois Beautes de Mnasidika, 1922. Art deco art print by George Barbier.

Vintage Art Prints

Are you looking for a way to add some personality to your home, but without spending a fortune? Tastefully chosen vintage art prints are a great way to do just that.

Falling between original art and antique art, vintage art prints can really express your personality, whist being easy to frame, beautiful to look at and easy to move around the home when you feel like a change.

Needless to say, these prints can be found in a wide range of styles and sizes, so there’s sure to be something that fits your taste. Plus, they’re relatively affordable, so you can fill up your walls without breaking the bank. Ready to get started? Here are a few tips for finding the perfect vintage art print for your home.

What are vintage art prints and where to find them

The word vintage isn’t an industry term with a specific meaning, but we can agree that it generally means something that’s at least two decades old, but newer than antique, so probably not much older than 120 years old.

So, within that range at the time of writing, we’re in the time zone between about 1880 and 2000. Roughly!

Within this time period fall millions of photos and artworks that express something about the time and place they were created.

Vintage means now, then

One defining factor is that vintage imagery usually depicts what was cutting-edge at the time of production, instead of what was nostalgic, historical, backward-looking or “traditional” at that time. It’s that avant-garde up-to-the-minute feeling that gives vintage an excitement and energy that still shines through today. Vintage really means what was new and contemporary and exciting then.

Because these images are available as art prints, they can be rendered in very high resolution on good quality paper. Combine the print with a high-quality frame and (most importantly) high quality glass, and you have a piece of wall art that will be a conversation starter and a real asset to your interior.

Vintage art prints are becoming increasingly popular among collectors and interior decorators, adding a touch of nostalgia to any home. They are reproductions of old artwork such as paintings, photographs or etchings, printed onto paper or canvas.

Subjects

Although vintage prints can depict any subject, particularly popular subjects include advertisements (especially film and fashion ads), cars, sports, music, celebrities, and often street photography.

Vintage can mean rural but just as often means urban. Vintage lovers often use place as their subject of choice, seeking out photos, prints or advertisements that are related to the town, city or country they live in. Sometimes even old street signs can be found!

The other side of the local vintage coin is travel. Posters and advertisements depicting travel to exotic locations for holidays is a forever popular subject for vintage prints. Think: where was your best holiday ever? There’s bound to a classic print showing that country or city available.

Types of print

Vintage art prints can be images that are in the public domain – these are images that are out-of-copyright either because they are old enough or because they have been donated to the public domain by the copyright holder.

They can also be of copyrighted artworks which the printer has a licence to reproduce for you. It’s always worth checking that your print is sufficiently licenced for reproduction. Never take images from the Internet and send them to the printers without first establishing whether you have a right to do so.

Where to find

Today, these pieces can be found for sale at local vintage and antique markets or online second-hand shops and stores. High-end galleries also now have a huge range of vintage-style prints and host online auctions for rare pieces, with prices ranging from hundreds to thousands of pounds depending on their condition and demand.

While finding a genuine vintage print may take some time and research, it is often worth the effort as these one-of-a-kind pieces can truly become family heirlooms that endure for generations. Know that when properly cared for, prints can continue to offer beauty and enjoyment for years to come. If you’re looking to add some timeless classiness to your home décor, consider investing in one of these timeless gems!

How to incorporate vintage art prints into your home décor

Decorating with vintage art prints can be an exciting way to add a unique style to your home.

Choose pieces that complement the look and feel of your home — muted tones for a neutral palette, vibrant colours for a bold statement — and you’ll quickly end up with inspiring artwork that makes your house come alive. It’s also important to think about placement; the right picture in the right spot can drastically change how it looks and feels. Wall-mounted art prints don’t just need to hang on walls – you could use shelves or ledges to create interesting gallery displays or vignettes. The same goes for framed pictures — adding them in unexpected places near windowsills, above doorways, on doors, in unexpected rooms such as the toilet, creates an interesting narrative between pictures and objects.

Large, floor level images also make an impactful statement, so couple prints with vintage furniture and other smaller knickknacks for a balanced display.

No matter how you decide to incorporate vintage art prints into your home décor, each piece is guaranteed to make your space uniquely yours!

Tips for choosing the right vintage art print for your home

Finding the right artwork for your space can feel like a daunting task – especially when it comes to vintage art prints.

With so many unique styles, designers, and eras to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. Before you begin browsing for your perfect print, consider some of these tips that will help guide you along the way. First, choose a style that speaks to you – think about how the color scheme complements your home and the atmosphere it creates.

Know what size frame you need – larger frames are typically more expensive.

It’s always a good idea to do a little bit of research into the artist or designer behind the print – discover their process and philosophy may give insight into why this piece of art should mean something special to you.

For example, the famous botanical artist Ernst Haeckl produced some of the most popular drawings of beautiful natural botanicals and sea-creatures, which still sell like crazy today. But you might not like Haeckl’s social Darwinistic views that were co-opted by the Nazi party.

If buying second-hand, look out for condition and quality issues – make sure there is no fading or water damage in order to guarantee that your vintage art print is something that will look perfect in a contemporary home, and not fade further or begin to look shabby.

With these tips in mind, picking the perfect vintage art print for your home can be an enjoyable journey full of surprises. Enjoy the ride!

How to frame and display your vintage art print

If you have a print that looks like it deserves to be hanging on the wall, then congratulations – you have a great piece of décor in the making.

The first step in displaying it is to choose the perfect frame. Depending on the look you’re going for, this can range from a traditional wooden frame’s timeless elegance to something more modern and playful.

Once you’ve made your choice and had the frame attached, you can move onto hanging your artwork up on the wall.

Make sure there’s enough breathable space around it – don’t be tempted to crowd too many pieces together into one area. When deciding where to place your vintage art print, consider its size relative to furniture in the room, as well as how much natural or artificial light it will be receiving during different times of day.

Sizing and positioning are key elements when displaying artwork properly: play around until you find what works best for yours. And voila! You’re now ready to admire your masterpiece of framed vintage art all year round – enjoy!

Ideas for using vintage art prints in other creative ways

Vintage art prints can be so much more than just a piece of wall decor! With a little bit of creativity, you can repurpose them into unique and stunning home accents.

Try framing your prints as a tabletop centrepiece and tucking in some fresh flowers or potted plants to make an eye-catching display. If you’re feeling crafty, transfer your print onto wood blocks to create one-of-a-kind coasters – or better yet, make a set of fabric napkins featuring the image of your favorite print. You could even cut out individual pieces to fashion punches, decals or custom wrapping paper for special gifts. Vintage art prints are surprisingly versatile – no matter how you choose to use them, there’s sure to be some aesthetic delight in store!

Vintage art prints are a popular way to add character and personality to your home décor. They can be found in a variety of styles and colours, so there is sure to be one that matches your personal taste.

When choosing a vintage art print for your home, it’s important to consider the style of your space and what you want the print to accomplish. Are you looking for something that will make a bold statement or something more subtle?
Framing and displaying your vintage art print is an important part of bringing it together with the rest of your décor. There are many different ways to do this, so take some time to experiment until you find the look that you love.
Vintage art prints can also be used in other creative ways. For example, why not use them as part of a themed party or event? Or hang them in a child’s room for added interest and colour?

Home Kitchen

What To Look For In Vintage Kitchenware

Post author By Holly Daffurn
Post date 29th November 2022

Vintage colander

If the kitchen is the heart of the home, then isn’t it worth spending a bit of time and effort on finding great quality kitchenware that will last for years and become familiar and treasured possessions?

Cooking, eating, and sharing mealtimes together are some of the things that binds families together. We all have memories of the kitchens in the homes we grew up in. The smells, the recipes, and our parents’ unique ways of preparing food.

In times past, kitchenware was built to last. And today, many of us are looking not just to relive our childhoods, but also to genuinely find great quality cookware that will last a long time and become a central part of our daily food preparation experience.

So, if you’re on a mission to add some high-quality vintage kitchenware pieces to your collection – be it pots, pans, scales, cutlery or crockery, read on for some thoughts on what to look for in vintage kitchenware.

The different types of materials used in vintage kitchenware

In any kitchen, the cookware is nearly as important as the ingredients. After all, even the best recipe could be ruined if it’s cooked in a subpar pot or pan. Great quality kitchenware makes cooking a joy, and can even contribute to the quality of the food!

For those who love vintage kitchenware, the style of the cookware is just as important as its function.

Collectors scour flea markets and antique stores for rare finds, and they’re willing to pay a high price for pieces in good condition. The most sought-after kitchenware is usually made from copper or cast iron. Copper conducts heat well and can develop a beautiful patina over time. Cast iron is also an excellent conductor of heat, and it’s prized for its durability. However, both copper and cast iron can be quite heavy, so they’re not always practical for everyday use. That’s where enamelled kitchenware comes in.

Enamelled pots and pans are often just as beautiful as their copper and cast-iron counterparts, but they’re lighter and easier to handle. As a result, they’re more popular with home cooks who appreciate both form and function.

Whether you’re a casual collector or a passionate pursuer of all things vintage, kitchenware is a fascinating area to explore. With so many different materials and styles to choose from, there’s something to suit every taste.

How to spot a fake vintage piece

With the popularity of vintage living, it’s no surprise that fake vintage kitchenwares have begun to flood the market. However, there are a few ways to spot a fake.

First, take a close look at the construction and build. Real vintage pieces are often made from higher quality materials than today’s mass-produced, cheap kitchenware.

In scales and other plasticware, check the quality and thickness of the plastic. Cheap repro scales are unlikely to be accurate.

In copperware and ironware pots and pans, check for patina, makers’ marks, and the quality of construction, especially in joins. True vintage pieces were often handmade and therefore (pleasingly) doesn’t suffer from the mass-produced perfection of reproduction pieces.

Finally, trust your gut. If something feels off about the piece, it probably is. With a little careful examination, it’s easy to spot a fake vintage piece.

The importance of condition when buying vintage kitchenware

If you’re like me, your kitchen is your pride and joy. It’s the heart of your home, where family and friends gather to share meals and memories. But it’s also a place where spills happen, accidents happen, and things just generally get worn out with use.

That’s why it’s important to be choosy when purchasing vintage kitchenware. After all, you want your kitchen to reflect your impeccable taste, not your chaotic life.

Look for pieces that are in good condition, with minimal wear and tear. If you’re concerned about water spots or stains, consider opting for a different piece.

And if you’re really looking to make a statement, go for something that’s unique and eye-catching – something that will make your guests say “wow” when they see it. With a little bit of effort, you can create a stunning vintage kitchen that will be the envy of everyone who steps foot in it.

All your pieces don’t necessarily have to be from the same era or decade. An eclectic but well put-together collection of pieces is just as beautiful as a complete set of collectors’ items.

What to do if you find a rare piece of vintage kitchenware

You’re rummaging through your local flea market when you come across a beautiful piece of vintage kitchenware. It’s in pristine condition, and it’s clear that it’s a real collector’s item. But what should you do next?

First, take a deep breath and resist the urge to immediately buy it. There’s a good chance that the seller is also aware of its value, and you don’t want to overpay. Instead, do some research to get an idea of what it’s worth. Once you know how much it’s worth, you can negotiate with the seller from a position of strength.

Of course, even if you manage to get a good deal on the piece, there’s no guarantee that it will appreciate in value over time. But if you’re lucky enough to find a rare piece of kitchenware, it’s definitely worth investigating further. Who knows? It might just be the start of a whole new collection.

Where to find affordable vintage kitchenware online and in stores

If you’re looking for affordable vintage kitchenware, the internet is a great place to start your search. There are numerous online retailers that specialize in selling vintage kitchenware, and many of them offer competitive prices. You can also check out local charity shops, car boot sales, garage sales, auctions and estate sales; you never know what treasures you might find.

Just be sure to inspect the items carefully for chips, cracks, and other damage. With a little patience and effort, you’re sure to find the perfect piece of vintage kitchenware for your home.

Conclusion paragraph: The next time you’re out antiquing or perusing your favourite online vintage store, keep these tips in mind. With a little bit of knowledge and some careful observation, you can add a beautiful piece of vintage kitchenware to your collection that will last for years – and maybe even increase in value over time. Happy hunting!

1940s History Home Kitchen Vintage wallpaper

1940s Kitchen Wallpaper

Post author By Vintage
Post date 25th October 2022

If you’re a fan of retro style, you’ll love the 1940s kitchen wallpaper patterns that are back in fashion. These colourful designs feature classic motifs like flowers and paisleys, and they add a touch of nostalgia to any room. You can use them to create an accent wall or to dress up a plain backsplash. So if you’re looking for a way to add some vintage flair to your kitchen, check out these stylish wallpaper designs.

In the 40s, Britain underwent total transformation. Every single person was affected by World War II, and almost everybody played an active role. You’ll know about the Land Girls for example, pioneering women who were posted to work on the land to make sure food did not need to be imported, and the UK was self-sufficient.

Whilst society underwent transformation so did gender roles, with 36% of women in work – many of whom were enlisted into factory and agricultural jobs.

Not a time to be thinking much about decorating the kitchen wall, you might think. But what never ceases to amaze about WW2 is that folks somehow managed to stay cheerful – and this was reflected in their choices for interiors.

By the end of the war, austerity was the order of the day and styles were muted. The mood was subdued but resolute. “Make do and mend” was the motto.

With Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters crooning from the radio, women kept the nation’s spirits up with wholesome, unfussy food and built their families with love and great care, savouring each day as it came, whilst saving every penny and making everthing count. “We Can Do It”, said the poster, and it was right.

We Can Do It poster — We Can Do It, said Rosie the Riveter – and she was right.

The 1940s kitchen colour palette is one of mint greens, creams and blacks, plain wooden furniture and scrubbed tiles.

Everything needed to be fresh and clean, if not antiseptic.

Kitchens needed to be practical and were used for many purposes, from cooking to washing, ironing, eating and as a central point for the family to gather.

Fridges were in, but electrical gadgets such as microwaves and air fryers were still a long way off.

This sugar bowl sums up the 40s palette. Greens, dark browns and creams were the palette of the decade.

The 1940s kitchen colour palette: cream backgrounds, botanical greens, rich reds, browns and duns.

Most kitchens were not wallpapered, but simply painted in single tones or tiled. Partly because kitchens back then were generally steamier places than they are today. There were fewer extractor fans and kettles, boiling vegetables (not microwaved), washing and ironing all produced steam in vast quantities that would run down the wall and condense on cold windows.

Folks would even boil their knickers on the hob when a washing machine wasn’t available. (“Granny, why are you cooking your pants?”)

But when they were papered, patterns with muted colours were favoured. Small patterns such as botanicals would be favoured over garish patterns. Fruit and flower motifs were especially popular, but in subdued tones and styles. This was a time of humility, not self-indulgence.

To get the 1940s look you’ll want to focus on simple practicality and good quality. This was not a throwaway decade and money was tight. Reflect this with high-quality kitchen goods and wallpapers that will last a long time.

If you’re looking to add some retro flair to your kitchen, consider choosing a 1940s kitchen wallpaper style. This type of wallpaper can be found in a variety of styles and designs, so you’re sure to find something that fits your taste. Plus, it’s a great way to add some unique style to your space.

By the end of the decade, the nation’s mood was lifting a little bit. Although rationing did not fully end until 1954, but the 50s it was clear that the UK’s economy was on the up, and wages rose, men went back to work, and new houses were built in bombed-out cities.

This was reflected in our interiors, with brighter colours coming in and new gadgets cropping up. So if your thing is late 1940s, you’ll want to include some eye-popping colours here and there, whilst retaining the basic sturdy and clean look and feel.

In summary:

The 1940s were a time of transformation in Britain.
Gender roles changed during this time, with more women working outside the home.
The mood was subdued but resolute, and the motto was “make do and mend.”
The kitchen colour palette of the 1940s consisted of mint greens, creams, and blacks.
Kitchens were used for many purposes beyond cooking, such as washing and ironing clothes.
By the end of the decade, the nation’s mood was lifting a bit as rationing came to an end and wages rose.
For wallpaper styles go for small, detailed florals and botanicals with washed out and muted colours such as browns and greens.

1960s 1970s Home Vintage Vintage Interiors wallpaper

Vintage Wallpaper 2021

Post author By Heather Morris
Post date 17th July 2014

Updated 17/1/2021

Lovers of vintage often find that the addiction to bygone eras is wildly infectious.

What starts off as a collection of 1950’s frocks or a couple of 1970’s suits, soon becomes an entire wardrobe. Before long you’ll find that you want to wear exclusively vintage, your accessories will have to be vintage and you’ll be visiting a specialist hair salon and picking up pin-up style make-up tips from YouTube videos.

Elegant Art Deco paper by Bradbury and Bradbury

Oh so fabulous

The obsession rarely stops there, because wearing vintage feels so delicious and so fabulous. You’ll find yourself drooling over cake stands, teacups and charming milk jugs. Your crockery cupboards will be brimming with vintage-style oddments to match your wardrobe and jewellery collection. This infectious craze will take over the rest of your house.

It makes sense. Not only is it stylish and beautiful to look at but it is so economical and makes fabulous environmental sense. Buying vintage means that you’re reusing, it’s green and can be so very affordable. You can pick up furniture and kitchenware from charity shops and reclaim them with a little paint and some well-chosen fabric until they look unspeakably vintage.

So what started off as you coveting a pretty 1950s dress, has evolved into you collecting a house full of vintage and retro knick-knacks. But, if you really want to make visitors feel like they are stepping back in time, then you’ll have to go one step further. What about vintage wallpaper?

1970s Wallpaper

Papering over the cracks

Sadly, original vintage wallpaper is almost impossible to get hold of. Even if you could lay your hands on enough to paper a whole room, you may find it is not quite up to standard and may well be ravaged by time. Unless you fancy scouring the country for any unlikely house that hasn’t been redecorated since the 1950s, you are best focussing on reproduction wallpaper for your home.

Kitschen paper

If you are only going to paper one room in your home, then the kitchen is a great choice to start with.

Prior to the 1920s kitchens were unpapered as it was considered wasteful. Kitchens in wealthier homes were only seen by the staff, and poorer people could not afford wallpaper or worried that cooking fumes and steam would damage the paper.

In the 1920s we became a bit obsessed with sanitation and hygiene and it was very popular to paint kitchens white or to tile them with gleaming white tiles. This was to show up any hint of dirt and to portray high levels of cleanliness.

It wasn’t until the 1930s that wallpapering the kitchen became popular. Kitschy imagery was popular. It was supposed to keep the housewife cheery as she prepared the meals and toiled away for hours a day.

Images of domesticity, such as tea pots and kitchen implements, were in. Fruit (especially cherries and strawberries) was commonly seen and quaint cottage scenes or simplistic floral motifs featured strongly.

This trend continued until the 1960s, when more vibrant and psychedelic papers starting appearing, and in the 1970s the trend for tiling and painting the kitchen became more en vogue.

Out of the kitchen

When choosing wallpaper for the rest of the house it helps to know a little about its history.

Wallpaper was once thought of as a cheap alternative to “proper art” and paintings. Being much cheaper, easy to replace and quick to apply; those who couldn’t afford fine artwork would opt for wallpaper to add colour to their homes.

This distinction didn’t last, as those with money soon opted for the most expensive wall coverings; choosing precious metals, unusual designers, imports from overseas and fine fabrics when selecting their wall papers.

During the Second World War, wallpaper was considered a non-essential commodity and so style, ranges and types were limited. The wallpaper industry suffered greatly, as manufacturers were forced to use finer paper types and produce lower quality paper.

After the war, the demand for wallpaper returned and the market thrived. During this era many more exciting designs came out and people eagerly snapped up the new products.

Machine-age colours were particularly popular during this time – so if you fancy something from this era look out for reds, blacks, white and metallic silver designs.

1950s wallpaper

The two main vintage wallpaper designs to indulge in are definitely the sweet homely feel of the 1940s-1950s or the striking geometric abstract designs from the 1960s.

You also need to decide if you want your wallpaper to look like genuine vintage paper or if you want wallpaper that shows vintage items. Both types are readily available, especially online and will really make a difference to a space.

If you are opting for a very busy design, such as a typical 1960’s pattern you may prefer to only paper one wall, and paint the remaining walls in a colour from the design. Busy prints can make a room appear smaller, can make things feel cluttered, unrelaxing, and are difficult to hang pictures on. If you want somewhere to display photographs or pictures, then you’ll definitely want to paint at least one wall in a more muted tone.

1960s wallpaper

Because vintage wallpaper tends to be quite involved and detailed, it’s usually best to pick out the paper before you pick items for the rest of the room. Vintage wallpaper can be a feature in itself, and will only look its best if the rest of the furniture and décor has been chosen to fit with the theme.

If you are desperate for paper that looks like it was actually from the 1940s, rather than reproductions of the original, but cannot find anything from the era then you may like to use brand new paper and treat it to make it look older.

Carefully applied stain can add a softer look to brand new paper, or you could gently sand the surface for a more distressed look.

Personally I think new paper is great, and it will last a lot longer. You can always opt for softer tones to add a slightly sunbleached feel to the wall coverings. Now is the time to start going vintage with your wallpaper. Shabby chic furniture styles are all the rage, and the next step is definitely some beautiful vintage wall paper.

Where to find new vintage wallpaper

Little Greene

Little Greene are well-known for their paints but they also have a terrific range of wallpapers. From geometric patterns in traditional-looking hues, to patterns featuring plants and animals plus sea themes, Little Greene have put together a stupendous collection of papers that will complement any home. They also have a partnership with the National Trust.

Graham & Brown

Graham & Brown have curated a beautiful collection of vintage and art deco papers. They come in a wide range of geometric patterns in greens, blues, pearl whites and more. Rose gold is on trend at the moment and Graham & Brown have seized on this trend in some of their papers.

i want wallpaper

These folks only do wallpaper (as their name suggests) but they have a particularly strong collection of vintage, retro and trad wallpaper designs. As well as the commonly-seen washed-out greens and blues of the 50s and 60s they have quirky animal prints and many other designs that will make you smile!

Wallpaper from the 70s

If it’s the 1970s that turn you on, then Wallpaper from the 70s is the niche wallpaper site for you! They stock many bold and bright patterns in typical 70s colours. Be prepared for a smorgasbord of loud and louche patterns, including many botanicals and florals.

Holly.

1940s 1960s 1970s Home Kitchen

Vintage Kitchenware

Post author By Vintage
Post date 29th August 2013

Vintage sugarbowl

Classic simplicity

In the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s is that practicality was the aim of the game; it wasn’t about fancy gadgets that would be used once or twice. In the post-war era, kitchenware was built to last, not be used for a year or two and replaced. Some of those designs were so good they became style icons in their own right.

How many people have been into Grandma’s and found a 1950’s Swan colander? Beats your vulgar plastic version purchased from the local supermarket hands down, right?? And the plastic version probably only has a year or so left on its shelf life, whilst Grandma’s is hitting the mid-sixties age range.

In the grand scheme of good vintage brands, Swan is right up there for quality and reliability, and they produced everything from jelly moulds, jam pans, aluminium kettles, enamel pans and teapot sets amongst other things. Swan is possibly the Daddy of vintage kitchenalia and went on to be some of the first manufacturers to produce the toaster and a kettle containing an element as well as develop the world famous ‘Teasmade’ alongside co-subsidiary, Goblin.

The 1950s kitchen

The style: open-plan, fitted kitchens.
Brighter colours, greater convenience and great utility were the hallmarks of the 50s kitchen. Rounded “bubble” corners on shelving and doors.
The palette: bright pastel greens, blues and oranges.
New materials: linoleum, PVC and Formica began trending.
Influences: American diners, pop culture
The look: chequerboard lino flooring. Open plan. Chrome and plastic stacking chairs. Polka dot curtains.

Another key appliance of vintage kitchenalia that is conjured up in the mind’s eye is the big electric mixer, usually produced by Kenwood and absolutely screams 50’s housewife. The majority of these appliances left on the market are still in good working order, look great and are a hell of a lot cheaper than their modern counterparts.

A set of Salter scales is another great idea for a kitchen going for a throwback look. Known for their accuracy, these scales often sell for more than a brand new set from a department store, but their look and resilience to last through the decades makes the benefits of owning a vintage set of Salter scales far outweigh the pros for buying a new set, pardon the pun …

To demonstrate the style of the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, Sadler is a brand to certainly look into. Their teapots, creamers, storage jars and sugar basins amongst other things certainly span the decades. Whether it be the somewhat brash colourings of the 60’s, the fun look of the 50’s or that smidge of chintz that the 40’s offered, a Sadler piece will be out there somewhere.

Unlike many moons ago, in this day and age, people can afford to spend money without worrying whether what they are buying has a practical implication, so opting to spend a few pounds on vintage tea tins such as Twinings, Tetley, Lyons and Typhoo is another option for a proper vintage look.

The key to combining vintage kitchenalia with a modern kitchen is playing around and choosing the right things, so that the overall look doesn’t become tacky or gimmicky but still manages to throw in some great nostalgia.

1950s kitchen — The 50s kitchen – bright colours, rounded corners, checkerboard flooring.

You can’t have missed the trend for injecting vintage chic with kitchenalia that throws back to the golden years of classic design. The kitchen is the heart of the home, so it’s well worth putting some thought into getting it just right. It’s easier than you might think. Any kitchen can be transformed using a few well-chosen vintage/retro objects. You don’t have to pay the earth – second-hand or refurbished items are just as good as brand new. It’s all about what you choose.

What To Look For In Vintage Kitchenware

1920s 1940s 1960s Art Deco Furniture Home

Vintage Furniture Trends

Post author By Jamie Banning
Post date 19th August 2013

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Give your home the stylish vintage look

Everyone loves the revived look that interiors and exteriors take on in preparation for the much welcomed summer months. However, a spring clean is often the precursor to a bigger decorating make-over, and it could be one that involves a totally new feel and look to a home. Deciding on a style can be fun – you get an excuse to spend time leafing through glossy design magazines and visit stylish websites. It’s the best way to get ideas and draw inspiration when you want to revamp a home with well-chosen vintage furniture.

Many of us live in houses built in the Victorian or Edwardian eras, and want to recreate some of the atmosphere those early owners of the properties might have enjoyed. But you don’t need to go vintage right down to carpets and cushions. A better idea is to spend your budget on a small number of larger pieces – maybe a desk, set of chairs, wardrobe or dresser – and stick with modern materials with vintage designs for the carpets, curtains and soft furnishings.

The vintage look is a popular trend that’s stood the test time. If well thought through, vintage can add a certain cachet to a home. It’s possible to create a luxurious or cosy retro feel in your living room, kitchen or even bathrooms – think sumptuous copper bath tub surrounded by Biba style Kentia palms. Even on a small budget, it’s possible to achieve a great vintage look and have fun doing it too! To get started it’s a good idea to know about some of the main eras of vintage style.

1930s Appeal

The thirties were a very stylish decade, and about as far back as you can go before you’re in the realm of “antique”. You may want to create a Poirot-style opulent Agatha Christie ambiance. Or recreate a Jeeves and Wooster living room. Twenties and thirties furniture was characterised by clean lines, practical thinking, and a thoroughly “modern” break from the cluttered past of over-decorated Victoriana. Think bird’s eye maple desks, sumptuous walnut bedroom suites and for the lounge, think leather tub chairs paired with a Marcel Breuer style chrome chair or two. Geometric carpets and fabrics add the all important finishing touch.

Sedate Post War Trends

The post-war era brought austerity to Britain, and practicality and “built-to-last” was the uppermost in designer’s minds. It’s possible to find brilliantly made English retro furniture – Utility being one of the companies that in its heyday produced masses of utilitarian furniture. Although not to everyone’s taste back then, it’s enjoying a revival in these modern times. The great thing about retro English furniture is that because much of it had been overlooked up until recent times, it is more affordable than some Scandinavian vintage furniture that’s around.

Fifties Revival & Sixties Style

The fifties were pretty austere times for most – yet the 1951 Festival of Britain saw innovative furniture designs and futuristic objects that today, are extremely collectable. Companies like Metamec made stylish, colourful clocks whilst glassware was ultra kitsch – especially the Italian coloured glass fish that adorned many 1950’s fashionable homes. Today, the glassware is getting more and more collectible.

After the war, furniture makers like the Morris Furniture Group, began producing innovative designs. They were the brainchild of Neil Morris, son of the company’s founder. He pioneered fascinating new shapes for chairs and tables using the latest wood technology in laminated woods. Later, in the sixties, Neil Morris won awards for the now extremely collectible Bambi chair and Clouds occasional tables. Today, these items are snapped up when they appear on the market.

Other furniture makers of the time were Ercol, E Gomme, the company that produced G-Plan. Then there was Stag’s C-Range and later the Minstrel range of furniture, all of which is much sought after by people who want to recreate that retro look in the modern day home

The Scandinavian Influence

By the sixties, Scandinavian furniture makers began to make their mark all over the world. Again, furniture designs were innovative with teak and rosewood being a popular choices of wood. The teak Danish sideboard is one of the most popular vintage items of furniture today.

Sourcing retro furniture is that much easier with the advent of the Internet and it’s great fun deciding on which style to go for. There’s a heap of choices from furniture made out of exotic laminate woods to solid teak, rosewood. Then ther are the bentwoods made famous by the likes of Thonet and Alvar Aalto. It’s just a question of sitting down and deciding which would suit your lifestyle and budget. Then the fun really begins as you start sourcing the vintage furniture you want – not forgetting the all important retro objects too!

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1920s entrance hallway

The Jeeves and Wooster interior style

The FiftyFive armchair by Gplan Vintage

1950s living room

1940s interior

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