Best Retro Touches for Each Room of Your Home
One of the hottest themes in today’s décor is retro style. Vintage pieces (and great modern reproductions) are everywhere—bringing old-school charm into fresh, updated spaces. The good news: you don’t have to go full retro to enjoy the look. A few well-placed accents can add personality and a fun throwback vibe. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Kitchen
Small appliances are an easy place to begin, especially when they live on the countertop. Mixers, blenders, tea kettles, and storage canisters come in bold colors that coordinate beautifully—or add a pop of contrast. Explore options at SMEG.
You can also work in vintage-inspired bread boxes, clocks, telephones, or lighting fixtures. For bigger impact, consider a 1950s diner-style table and chairs or a 1970s-style Formica island.
Want to go all-in? Some brands make new refrigerators and ranges that look like they’re straight out of the 1940s–1970s, in finishes ranging from stainless steel to iconic throwback colors. See examples at Big Chill.
Tile is another great retro opportunity. Bold colors like teal, red, black, white, or cream—arranged in classic patterns—can instantly transform a room. Browse inspiration here: retro tile flooring ideas.
Finish the look with vintage-style dinnerware and glassware, like Fiesta Dinnerware.
Living Rooms, Family Rooms, and Great Rooms
Furniture is one of the most fun ways to play with retro décor. Look for rounded corners, tapered legs, glass tops, and mid-century silhouettes. A bold “mod” sofa or a sleek vintage-style chair can be the centerpiece that sets the tone.
You can also add a compact bar setup with stainless barware and retro glassware. If you’re feeling brave, classic wood paneling can look surprisingly stylish when paired with modern lighting, bold curtains, or a textured area rug.
For wall décor, mod mirrors are a simple, high-impact choice. And for music lovers, a retro-style record player can add both style and sound.
Bedrooms
Many living-room ideas translate beautifully into bedrooms—especially retro mirrors, warm wood tones, and bold color palettes. Retro-patterned bedding is an easy upgrade that doesn’t require any remodeling.
Try vintage-inspired bedside lamps, pendant lighting, or even a throwback telephone-style accessory for a playful nod. And for the truly nostalgic decorator, a few faux-fur pillows and a bright accent chair can bring that classic vintage vibe (without committing to a full theme).
If you’d like help mixing finishes and colors without overdoing it, visit our Design Studio for inspiration and guidance.
Bathrooms
Retro color shines in bathrooms—especially if you love pink, mint green, or powder blue. If full-color fixtures feel like too much, you can still get the look with retro-inspired faucets, lighting, mirrors, or cabinet hardware.
Retro tile flooring pairs beautifully with vintage palettes. For inspiration, browse retro bathroom ideas.
Or go for a space-age twist with sleek glass shower doors, unique cabinet shapes, and statement fixtures.
Outdoor
Don’t forget your deck, patio, or sunroom. Mid-century outdoor living is having a moment, and metal patio furniture with playful cushions—florals, stripes, or polka dots—can bring instant retro charm to your exterior space.
For more home inspiration and design tips, explore the Ernest Homes Blog or reach out through our Contact Us page.
