Useful Stuff

One of the big styles that seem to be making a comeback in the world of interior design appears to be the retro style. That funky semi-modern look that was largely about experimenting with brand new breakthroughs in technology during the 1950s, 60s and 70s is making a comeback in a big way. The style extended from large pieces of furniture such as lounge chairs and tables through to soft furnishings and small items such as lamps.

The retro style was eclectic too with something that looked dated and traditional just as likely to be placed in a room with a space age Arco floor lamp. The fact is that pretty much anything goes when it comes to using retro furniture in the home. The style is carefree and daring and willing to challenge the eye without too much concern over whether anyone is impressed or not.

Another part of the retro era, apart from the furniture itself, is the artwork that can make a bold statement when used in sensible proportion. In other words, don’t completely overcrowd the room with retro hangings or sculptures. Less is very much more when it comes to the funky appeal that an odd piece will have on a room.

Co-ordinating this kind of a room can be a lot of fun. You get the feeling that the gloves are off and your creative energy can be let off the leash. Mixing and matching with all kinds of retro furniture and accessories can throw up some very interesting combinations and unusual results.

One of the most rewarding pastimes I can think of is searching for old furniture with a view to restoring it or renewing it before either adding it to my own collection or putting it up for sale at auction. It takes a little bit of experience to pick out something like an antique wardrobe, deciding that even though it may look a little worse for wear it can still be freshened up and then making a tidy profit on the deal.

If you enjoy wandering around the many antique stores and charity shops looking for eligible pieces of furniture then the challenge of turning something over is almost too good to refuse. There is an endless supply of material to work with and if you are the slightest bit handy with the carpentry skills, then the restoration is a doddle.

To ensure that you are able to bring the best out of the pieces that you buy, it would be a good idea to have some sort of training in the restoration business. This doesn’t amount to a whole lot. Some French polishing or basic staining techniques should be sufficient. As I mentioned earlier, cabinetry, woodworking or carpentry skills will stand you in a great position. Failing that there is always the option of outsourcing the parts of the job that you feel is too much for your skills. This, of course will eat into any profits you might hope to make, but that’s a decision you may make from one job to the next.

What you are going to be left with is the satisfaction of knowing that you have turned a tired old piece of antique furniture into a vital, fresh looking piece that people will fall over themselves to own.