Are you a fan of warm colors, weathered materials, and a story behind every piece of furniture? Then the vintage living style is perfect for you. This style combines the best of the past with the comfort of today and fits seamlessly with the country living style, which is all about tranquility, natural materials, and a homely atmosphere. In this extensive blog of about 1,200 words, you'll discover how to create a vintage interior yourself, which colors and materials are essential, and how a few smart purchases can deliver instant results. Grab a cup of coffee and get inspired!
What makes an interior ‘vintage’?
An interior is called vintage when the items used come from, or are inspired by, the period between the 1920s and the late 1980s. It’s not just about truly old pieces; new furniture and accessories with a lived-in look can also be called vintage. Think of a classic armchair with velvet upholstery or a 1960s sideboard on slender legs. The most important thing is the visible soul of the object: scratches, discoloration, or a slight worn spot are part of it and add character. It’s precisely this imperfection that makes each piece unique and personal.
Vintage also stands for quality. Many pieces from that era are made of solid wood or sturdy steel, designed to last for generations. By giving such items a second life, you automatically choose sustainability. With modern reproductions, you can achieve the same effect, as long as the design and finish feel authentic.
Vintage and country: a golden duo
On paper, vintage and country may seem like two different styles, but in practice, they complement each other beautifully. Both rely on warm colors, natural materials, and an inviting, cozy atmosphere. While country interiors are known for moldings, wooden beam ceilings, and linen fabrics, vintage adds a touch of nostalgia and retro flair. For example, a country farmhouse table gets extra charm with chairs from the 1950s, while a chunky linen sofa pairs perfectly with cushions in a retro floral print. As long as you keep the color palette calm and choose natural materials, both styles form a harmonious whole.
Color palette: warm, muted, and timeless
Colors largely determine the atmosphere of your interior. In a vintage living style, you’ll mainly see warm, muted shades like terracotta, olive green, ochre yellow, and dusty pink. This palette pairs beautifully with country basics like sand, beige, and creamy white. Want more punch? Add an accent color in deep orange or forest green, for example with a statement armchair or striking lamp.
- Base: neutral tones (creamy white, light gray, sand) on walls and large furniture;
- Accent: warm retro colors (ochre, rust, moss green) in accessories and smaller furniture;
- Counterpoint: industrial black or dark metal for a bold edge.
By cleverly combining these layers, you create depth without making your interior feel busy. Try a wainscoting in a deep color: it visually breaks up the wall and instantly adds atmosphere.
Materials & textures: wood, leather, and rattan
Natural materials steal the show in a vintage-country mix. Solid wood with a visible grain often forms the base: think of a robust dining table or a wall shelf with wooden planks and metal brackets to display your favorite decor. Combine this with rattan chairs, leather poufs, and ceramic vases for extra texture. Fabrics like linen, velvet, and bouclé add a soft touch and increase the coziness.
Tip: dare to mix different textures. A smooth leather sofa looks stunning next to a rough linen throw, while a high-pile rug contrasts beautifully with a herringbone wooden floor. This tension is exactly what makes the whole look inviting and lived-in.
Furniture with character
When it comes to furniture, you can think big or small, as long as each piece tells a story. A vintage sideboard is ideal for extra storage and as an eye-catcher. Pair it with a vintage bar cart for a touch of 1920s glamour. Need open display? Look for wall shelves in metal and wood. In our collection of wall shelves you’ll find various sizes and finishes to showcase your favorite retro finds – from old cameras to record sleeves.
Lighting also makes a big difference. Hang an industrial factory lamp above the dining table or place a tripod floor lamp next to your vintage armchair. By combining different light sources (ceiling, wall, and ambient), you create more depth and make the space extra cozy in the evening.
Accessories: the cherry on top
Accessories make all the difference. A few well-chosen items instantly give your interior the desired atmosphere. Start with vintage cushions: velvet, chenille, or retro floral prints always look great on a neutral sofa. Add a soft throw in chunky knit for chilly evenings. Hang a gallery of old photos in weathered frames on the wall or go for a typical 1960s sunburst mirror.
Plants are a must in a vintage home. Think of large-leaf plants like the Monstera or rubber plant in ceramic pots, or hanging plants in macramé holders for a touch of boho. With an open shelf, you can easily switch up your styling: alternate books, plants, and curiosities for a dynamic look.
Styling by room: living room, kitchen, and bedroom
Living room
Start with a comfortable (linen) sofa in a neutral shade and build up layers around it. A vintage coffee table, wall shelves with decorative objects, and a retro rug with a geometric pattern complete the look. Place a record player in the corner and you’ll have an instantly cozy vibe.
Kitchen
In the kitchen, country and vintage elements come together perfectly. Choose wooden fronts, authentic handles, and a freestanding china cabinet in a pastel shade. Combine with accessories from Bloomingville for subtle Scandinavian vintage vibes. Think ceramic bowls with retro prints, wooden serving boards, and enamel mugs. A metal bar stool with a leather seat at the island adds a bold finishing touch.
Bedroom
Opt for a wooden bed frame with spindles or a fabric headboard with tufted buttons. Add a bedspread in velvet or chenille and place two vintage nightstands, for example simply painted crates. A 1970s dresser on slender legs offers extra storage and charm. Finish with a brass wall lamp and an elegant rug for warm feet.
Vintage parquet & maintenance
Nothing exudes as much character as a wooden floor in herringbone or wide planks. In a vintage interior, such a floor truly shines. It’s important to take good care of the wood, especially if you choose an oiled finish. That’s why we recommend our parquet cleaner for oiled floors. This cleaner removes dirt and nourishes the wood at the same time, helping the floor retain its deep color and matte sheen.
Sustainable shopping & smart budget tips
A vintage interior doesn’t have to be expensive. Combine heirlooms, thrift store finds, and new items with a vintage look to stay within budget. Brands like House Doctor offer affordable furniture and accessories that look lived-in without needing to restau
