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30 Vintage Living Room Ideas for a Nostalgic Retro Feel

Never been a fan of the most contemporary design trends? Let's turn your living room into a tasteful time machine that matches your definition of vintage.

Retro vibes, a shabby chic twist, inspiration from the 60s or perhaps even the roaring twenties: there are so many different ways to add a vintage touch to your living room.

To help you embrace the right vintage nuance for your own preferences, our interior design experts have scouted for a large variety of examples and tips that you can experiment with.

From small nostalgic accents to a living room that will make your guests wonder if they've accidentally traveled back in time, here's what your vintage vision could look like.

1. Start with a mid-century modern sofa

Lalaklak Interior Architects

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BALTA Dariya Blue 5 ft. x 7 ft. Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug

Lexington Tanzania Leather Chair

Fauteuil en velours vintage, 1970, couleur verte

Poltrona Decorativa Alice Ps Trapzio Suede Amarelo - Ds Estofados

Gold Branch Chandelier Modern Style Pendant Light for Living Room Bedroom - 17-Light / Gold

Carsyn Oval Coffee Table - Cocoa

Kunstwerk: 'Piano in Verlaten Kerk, Belgi' van van Art By Dominic

Modern Metal Chandelier Light Fixtures Multi-Head Hanging Pendant Lights with Globe Glass Shade - 25-Light / Black / White

With it being the core element of your seating area, opting for a mid-century twist for your sofa is an excellent way to introduce a strong vintage vibe in your living room.

The most important part is a horizontal feel, so focus on a long design with a slightly lower back height.

Other iconic mid-century modern elements are slanted wooden legs, warm-colored fabric upholstery, or brown leather.

2. Add a Persian rug…

Living room with a vintage rug
Wendy O'Brien Interior Planning & Design

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Oriental Weavers 3'6" X 5'6" Grey/Sand Small Craft 93003 Area Rug

Living room with a vintage rug

Eugene Lounge Chair - Piccolo Pebble in Gray by Sunpan

Living room with a vintage rug

Vivien Turned Pedestal Coffee Table

Living room with a vintage rug

Tristan 2-pc. Chenille Sofa and Loveseat Set

Living room with a vintage rug

CHICOLOGY Roman Shades for Windows, Roman Window Shades, Roman Shades, Blackout Shades, Window Treatments, Window Shades for Home, Window Shade, 36" W X 64" H, Del Mar Pearl Grey (Blackout)

Living room with a vintage rug

Kate and Laurel Celia Round Metal Side Table, 18.25x18.25x22, Silver

Living room with a vintage rug

TRIBESIGNS WAY TO ORIGIN Andrea 20 in. Rustic Brown Round Thick Wood End Table, Sofa Side Table Accent Table Nightstand with Unique O-Shaped Base

Living room with a vintage rug

Persian rugs are both timeless and full of nostalgic vibes, so they can be the perfect addition to your vintage living room.

Choose a decorative design full of ornate patterns and harmonious lines, but don’t forget to take your palette into consideration to keep it consistent.

An aged or faded effect wouldn’t be a bad idea either.

3. … or make a retro rug the star of the show

Black and white geometric rug
Madison Modern Home

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Bohemian Harlequin Print Carpet Polyester Area Rug Washable Indoor Carpet for Home Decoration - 3'11 x 5'3 / Black White

Black and white geometric rug

Contemporary Tufted Back Standard Couch Linen/Faux Leather Armless Sofa Bed - 79L x 33.5W x 30H / Leather / Beige

Black and white geometric rug

House of Hampton Knisley Damask Sheer Rod Pocket Curtain Panels Polyester in Gray/Brown, Size 108.0 H in | Wayfair | Home Decor

Black and white geometric rug

Vance Round Coffee Table with Woodgrain Finish - Black Oak

Black and white geometric rug

Table basse en formica

Black and white geometric rug

Rare Artist's Proof Abstract Composition Lithograph From Russian/French Artist Andre Lanskoy. Signed and Dated 1968

Black and white geometric rug

Hollywood Regency Pair Of Elegant Table Top Lamps MCM Falkenstein Orange Vintage Free Ship

Black and white geometric rug

Wooden Heart Bowl

Black and white geometric rug

Bold geometric patterns were extremely popular with different 20th-century interior styles, and especially in mid-century modern homes from the 50s and 60s or with trends from the 70s, too.

From recognizable shapes to more creative geometric patterns, these rugs can really tie your living room decor together while showcasing your retro inspiration.

How about one that creates a bold contrast like with this black and white design?

4. Use geometric shapes as accents, too

Sofa with cushions including geometric patterns
Tobi Fairley

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Lexington Shaws Cove Sofa

Sofa with cushions including geometric patterns

Teppich Modern Trendline Retro

Sofa with cushions including geometric patterns

Pillow cover, Imperial Trellis Treillage, geometric, Orange Olive Studio

Sofa with cushions including geometric patterns

X-Bench

Sofa with cushions including geometric patterns

Spoonflower Lumbar Throw Pillows - Green Geometric Chinoiserie Trellis Celery

Sofa with cushions including geometric patterns

Fused Glass Vase, Blue Turquoise White Art Glass Vase, Pattern Bar Vase

Sofa with cushions including geometric patterns

"Green trellis pillow cover. Kravet Treads pillow cover. 18\" x 18\". 20\" x 20\".22\" x 22\".24\" x 24\". 26\" x 26\"."

Sofa with cushions including geometric patterns

Geometric shapes and patterns were so popular with retro interiors that it’d be a shame to only introduce them through a rug!

Think of smaller but noticeable accent items too, such as cushions, artwork, vases, or lamps.

For the best results and to avoid an overwhelming feel, introduce them against a monochrome background.

5. Include a vintage mirror frame

Vintage living room with shabby chic elements
Nichole Loiacono Design

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Daydream Velvet Berry Richmond Sofa

Vintage living room with shabby chic elements

French Print Frame, Frame 19th, Silver Bronze Frame, Wall Frame, Die Cut, Religious Print 19th, Lace Print

Vintage living room with shabby chic elements

Modern Ivo Round Bistro Table White - CorLiving

Vintage living room with shabby chic elements

38.5" Omega 3 Tier Corner Bookcase White - Breighton Home

Vintage living room with shabby chic elements

Loberon, Couchtisch + Beistelltisch, Caraman ( 70 cm)

Vintage living room with shabby chic elements

Loop Side Chair in Eggshell White

Vintage living room with shabby chic elements

Blanco 2577 Dining Table

Vintage living room with shabby chic elements

Recessed Framed Print | Hello Summer - Close-up Rose Baby Blue Color by Pivi Vikstrm - Maple - 8" x 10" - Society6

Vintage living room with shabby chic elements

An extremely ornate mirror frame will instantly showcase your vintage inspiration, so don’t be afraid to go big!

As for styles, we especially recommend decorative designs in a golden or silver hue. Oval shapes are especially popular with vintage living rooms, but you can also experiment with more creative ones like this stunning example.

And, if you’re really obsessed with these frames, choose similar ones for your pictures, too.

6. Include a modern console table or cabinet

Mid-century modern living room corner
Zigzag Studio Design

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Broyhill Brasilia Walnut Credenza #6140-10, Circa 1960s - *Please read out shipping notes before you buy.

Mid-century modern living room corner

Estilo Minimalista Moderno Alfombra De rea A Rayas En Blanco Y Negro Sala De Estar Dormitorio Suave Alfombra Lavable A Mquina Respaldo Antideslizante Sala De Estar Dormitorio Estudio Comedor Guardera Oficina En Casa Deco

Mid-century modern living room corner

Mina Victory Throw Pillow L0388 - Color: Coral; Size: 18" x 18"

Mid-century modern living room corner

Everly Quinn Modern & Contemporary Round Accent Mirror Metal in Yellow | 28 H x 28 W x 0.5 D in | Wayfair | Home Decor

Mid-century modern living room corner

31.5" Kurv Cafe Dining Table White - Jamesdar

Mid-century modern living room corner

Ivanna Stripe Cotton Tassle Cushion Cover

Mid-century modern living room corner

Rare Antique Two Finger Loop Handle Amber Glass Jug, gallon jug, collectible glass, farmhouse rustic home decor

Mid-century modern living room corner

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Mid-century modern living room corner

For a stronger mid-century modern vibe, don’t forget to include a console table that embodies this vintage style’s iconic features.

For example, a horizontal feel can be achieved both by choosing long but short designs and by including drawers in the same style. Consider warmer or darker wood finishes, a combination of wood and glass, thin or slanted legs, and an asymmetrical mix of open and closed storage.

7. Consider an apothecary chest

Vintage living room with an apothecary chest
Trish Kachel Apothecary Design

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Antique Yawman and Erbe Coffee Table Console Filing Cabinet Console

Vintage living room with an apothecary chest

Antonio Sofa by Abbyson Living

Vintage living room with an apothecary chest

LE Smith Beaded Medallion Pattern Pressed Glass Perfume Bottle

Vintage living room with an apothecary chest

Hoya Krohniana Super Silver / Hoya Krohniana Eskimo   6 inches pot

Vintage living room with an apothecary chest

Farmhouse Decor for The Home, Farmhouse Bathroom Decorations - Modern Farmhouse Decorations Farmhouse Table - Eucalyptus Plant

Vintage living room with an apothecary chest

"Moroccan Cushion Ottoman - Moroccan Square Pouf 24\" - Berber pillow - handmade kilim - Moroccan pouf ottoman - foot kilim stool"

Vintage living room with an apothecary chest

Arenaria Seat by Imperfettolab

Vintage living room with an apothecary chest

This is a vintage living room idea that can convey more of a nostalgic and antique feel rather than a modern retro vibe.

With their range of small drawers, these pieces are the opposite of the clean lines and minimalist elements that characterize contemporary furniture, so display them proudly.

You can add to their intrinsic vintage feel by opting for a wooden model with a distressed finish.

8. Include eye-catching chairs

Modern living room chairs
Katie Hodges Design

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Paire de fauteuils Sirocco Safari par Arne Norell, 1960s

Modern living room chairs

Graues Sideboard mit Beinen aus Walnussholz

Modern living room chairs

4 ft. Potted Nandina Tree with 118 Leavess - Green

Modern living room chairs

ANGELES HOME 7 ft. W x 9 ft. L Black Awning Side Mesh Screen Sunshade with Complete Kits

Modern living room chairs

Round Trivet - Turmeric / 12

Modern living room chairs

SA Internal Glazed Unfinished Oak 10 Lite Door - 686 x 1981mm Brown

Modern living room chairs

J16 Stool - Oiled Oak / Natural paper cord

Modern living room chairs

Huile sur toile tude de nu fminin vintage

Modern living room chairs

Rather than the bulkiest armchairs with an attention-grabbing backrest, choosing smaller chairs is a wiser idea in vintage living rooms where space isn’t a luxury: they’ll help you inspire an airier feel instead of getting in the way of your visual flow.

An instantly recognizable modern design includes the combination of a wooden frame with clean lines and some leather upholstery.

9. Use the right mixture of painted walls and wallpaper

Nostalgic vintage living room section
Heidi Caillier Design

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Haraz HRA-1001 Neutral/Neutral Rug - Neutral, Neutral / Rectangle 8' x 10'

Nostalgic vintage living room section

Baxton Studio Jacintha Espresso Coffee Table, Brown

Nostalgic vintage living room section

Colorado Lounge Chair by Folke Olsson for Bodafors, 1960s

Nostalgic vintage living room section

Cortina Blackout com Voil para Trilho Suio 5,00 x 2,30 Avel

Nostalgic vintage living room section

Trunk Segment Side Table - Finish: Silver Leaf

Nostalgic vintage living room section

Green Milan Nut Branch Bundle - 51"

Nostalgic vintage living room section

Armchair - Red Barrel Studio Johanna 28.7" Wide Armchair Wood / Polyester in Brown / Gray / White, Size 34.8 H x 28.7 W x 30.0 D in | Wayfair

Nostalgic vintage living room section

If, when thinking of vintage living rooms, you instantly picture the most decorative wallpaper, go on and cover your main walls with it!

Worried that it’s gonna feel too overwhelming?

Here’s a practical compromise: stick to white or monochrome walls in most of your living room but use wallpaper on an accent wall or a separate section, like in this delightful example.

10. Create a warm vintage palette

Living room with warm colors and wood
Jamie Bush

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"Stylish 4' x 6' white flokati rug | Super thick 3.25\" pile | 100% organic wool  | Hand-made | Free shipping!"

Living room with warm colors and wood

Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Upholstered Fabric Sofa in Citrus

Living room with warm colors and wood

Powell Iron Coffee Table Base with 36"D Beveled Glass Leaf - Gold - 36"L x 36"W x 18.5"H

Living room with warm colors and wood

Mid-Century Duyan Lounge Chair by John Risley for Ficks Reed, 1950s

Living room with warm colors and wood

Franco Albini Small Rattan Ottoman

Living room with warm colors and wood

Modern Ceramic 12 Inch Vase - Pandemic Design Studio

Living room with warm colors and wood

Mid Century Franco Albini Style Rattan Wicker Footstool Ottoman

Living room with warm colors and wood

Set of 2 Fuji Stackable Counter Height Barstools Leather/Steel Camel Brown - LumiSource

Living room with warm colors and wood

This isn’t to say that cold hues can’t work in vintage living rooms.

However, warm colors like yellow, ochre, orange, beige, and brown are especially tactical when it comes to inspiring a nostalgic retro vibe.

Plus, they’ll work divinely with the wooden finishes of your vintage or modern furniture.

11. Include dark wood finishes

Living room with white walls and dark wood
Heidi Caillier Design

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Cape Cod CAP310 Hand Woven Area Rug - Natural/Black - 6'x9' - Safavieh..

Living room with white walls and dark wood

, Rosebury,  E.Gallina

Living room with white walls and dark wood

Fauteuil style brutaliste

Living room with white walls and dark wood

Bruegel the Elder Fine Art Print Landscape with the Fall of Icarus Vintage Wall Art Renaissance Oil Painting Reproduction Framed Lithograph

Living room with white walls and dark wood

Merrick Lane Outdoor Furniture 4 Piece Black Woven Aluminum Frame Loveseat, 2 Chair and Coffee Table Set With Gray Cushions

Living room with white walls and dark wood

Finley Armchair, Charcoal Cotton

Living room with white walls and dark wood

Checked Out Pillow - Color: Denim

Living room with white walls and dark wood

Lampadaire en H Zorax H165cm Tissu Bordeaux et Mtal Noir et Bronze

Living room with white walls and dark wood

While lighter options make more sense in contemporary homes, dark wood finishes were definitely more popular in modern and vintage living rooms.

They’ll easily help you maintain a nostalgic feel that blends coziness and sophistication.

However, dark wood finishes can also make a small room feel even more cramped, so we mainly recommend them in large or, at least, particularly bright settings.

12. Create some contrast against dark walls

Vintage living room with navy walls
Katie Geddes Interiors

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Linen Willoughby Sofa, Hickory

Vintage living room with navy walls

6 ft. Green Indoor Outdoor Decorative Artificial Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Plant in Pot, Faux Fake Tree Plant

Vintage living room with navy walls

Mahogany Mid Century Modern Lounge Chair

Vintage living room with navy walls

Kaia Coffee Table - Brass

Vintage living room with navy walls

Large decorative raffia mirror

Vintage living room with navy walls

Throw Blanket | Abstraction_sunset_ocean_minimalism_001 by Forgetme - 51" x 60" Blanket - Society6

Vintage living room with navy walls

Antique Federal Period Mahogany Tilt Top Candlestand / End Table

Vintage living room with navy walls

Blue Ceramic Flower Vase Home Decor, Handmade Ceramic Planter, Pottery Handmade Housewarming Gift, Vase For Flowers Party Decor, Boho Decor

Vintage living room with navy walls

If you’d rather opt for darker walls in a strong saturated hue, decorate them wisely with lighter-colored items or some on the opposite side of the wheel.

That way, you’ll create a visually interesting contrast while avoiding a heavy feel.

See how well it works for this living room with a hay-style mirror, bright yellow lamp, and salmon sofa against a navy wall?

13. Sit around a corner sofa

Vintage living room with a corner sofa
JL Interior Design, LLC

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Michele Ceramic Lamp.

Vintage living room with a corner sofa

Vintage Chaima Tribal Rose Rug - 6'6''x9'5''

Vintage living room with a corner sofa

Lampada grande ad arco Niels

Vintage living room with a corner sofa

Table Basse Rotin Farah

Vintage living room with a corner sofa

White Solid Rod Pocket Sheer Curtain - 50 in. W x 95 in. L

Vintage living room with a corner sofa

Richfield Round Coffee Table

Vintage living room with a corner sofa

Indian Ethnic Handmade Homestay Living Room Cushion - Turmeric (45X45cm)

Vintage living room with a corner sofa

If the layout of your living room allows it, the introduction of a corner sofa could help you further emphasize the warmth behind your cozy nostalgic inspiration, allowing your household and guests to gather together.

The most logical ways to position a corner sofa are along two perpendicular walls or, in larger settings, the middle of the room to separate your seating area from the rest of the living room.

14. Blend a neutral base and colorful accents

Vintage sofa with bright cushions
Maureen Stevens Design

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Joybird Purple Mid Century Modern Daybed Sofa - Marin Mauve - Mocha, Anton

Vintage sofa with bright cushions

IKEA - SANELA Lysdmpende gardiner, 2 stk., mrkebl, 140x250 cm. 100% bomuld

Vintage sofa with bright cushions

Feizy Stoneleigh Solid Rug - 8830F - Color: Ivory, White; Size: 9' x 12'

Vintage sofa with bright cushions

Alina Tall Tufted Back Chair - Grey (Shipping Mid October 2022)

Vintage sofa with bright cushions

Vintage Room Divider, Gray Wood Room Divider Frame with Four Removable Burnt Wood Shelves

Vintage sofa with bright cushions

Lorts Organic Side Table, Old World

Vintage sofa with bright cushions

Gabi's Brocadel DIY ACCENT PILLOW STENCIL KIT

Vintage sofa with bright cushions

Espresso Wooden Tower Object

Vintage sofa with bright cushions

A beautiful, balanced idea for your vintage living room palette is to choose light neutral colors for larger items, such as a beige or light gray sofa.

Then, help them pop by introducing smaller accents in attention-grabbing hues, like these fuchsia and green cushions.

15. Make a bold statement with a large artwork

Retro room with an artwork above the fireplace
Michelle SABIN Interior Design

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Trinity Modern Area Rug AbstractSoft Fluffy Throw Carpet Accent Rug for Living Room Bedroom, 9' x 12' Blue

Retro room with an artwork above the fireplace

Haven 108" Multi-Seat Sofa, Standard Depth, Distressed Velvet, Ocean

Retro room with an artwork above the fireplace

Steinhauer vloerlamp Prestige chic - zwart - metaal - 8113ZW

Retro room with an artwork above the fireplace

Black Bird Minimalist Print from My Original Watercolor Painting, Black and White Watercolor Print, Bird Print, Home Decor Wall Art. CP

Retro room with an artwork above the fireplace

Coyuchi Sequoia Throw Blanket

Retro room with an artwork above the fireplace

Corrigan Studio Vernell Patio Chair w/ Ottoman Wood in Pink, Size 38.0 H x 29.0 W x 31.0 D in | Wayfair

Retro room with an artwork above the fireplace

Kamerplant van Botanicly  Afrikaanse vijgenboom  Hoogte: 150 cm  Ficus Cyathistipula

Retro room with an artwork above the fireplace

Fauteuil En Tissu Bouclette Et Chne

Retro room with an artwork above the fireplace

Whether that’s your largest wall or the spot above your fireplace or console cabinet, decorating the main focal point in your living room could help you reinforce its vintage vibes.

For example, you could introduce a large print consisting of a design with geometric shapes or a charming, nostalgic painting.

16. Brighten it up with some vintage lighting fixtures

White living room with colorful furniture
Claire Campbell Mint Home Decor

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Clarion Ivory Shag

White living room with colorful furniture

3 Piece seat Sofa Couch with Scooped Armrest/Wood legs,Upholstered Velvet 3-seat Sofa with Removable Cushions

White living room with colorful furniture

3 Piece Table Set in Black

White living room with colorful furniture

Walnut Lounge Chair

White living room with colorful furniture

Chaise Lounge - Everly Quinn Florentia Right-Rolled Arms Chaise Lounge Wood/Velvet in Blue, Size 29.5 H x 70.0 W x 70.0 D in | Wayfair | Black Friday / Cyber Monday Deals

White living room with colorful furniture

Mercury Row Minix 58.9" Tripod Floor Lamp Metal in Gray/Red/White, Size 58.94 H x 16.0 W x 11.75 D in | Wayfair

White living room with colorful furniture

Powell Company Jessy 16 in. x 23.5 in. Black Circular Marble Top End Table

White living room with colorful furniture

Blue Tide

White living room with colorful furniture

There are so many different vintage lamps you can experiment with depending on what decades you’re drawing inspiration from.

For example, scout for Tiffany lamps for an art nouveau or art deco vibe, simple geometric shapes for mid-century modern twists, or bold patterns and plastic designs for a 70s touch.

Overall, empire lamp shades never fail to convey a more generic vintage feel.

17. Try a vintage living room with a shabby chic twist…

Vintage shabby chic living room
Andrea West Design

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Safavieh VTG433D Rug - Size: 5'1" x 7'7"

Vintage shabby chic living room

Canora Grey Obrien 35" Wide Tufted Armchair Polyester/Fabric in Brown/White, Size 36.5 H x 35.0 W x 38.0 D in | Wayfair

Vintage shabby chic living room

Caracole Streamline Sofa - Beige

Vintage shabby chic living room

Lark Manor Beecher 28.75" Wide Club Recliner Faux Leather / Genuine Leather / Water Resistant in Brown | 42 H x 28.75 W x 37 D in | Wayfair

Vintage shabby chic living room

Marilyn Rectangular Cocktail Table

Vintage shabby chic living room

Henredon Historic Natchez Collection Mahogany Demilune Console

Vintage shabby chic living room

Vintage Ornate Mirror, Mirror, Wall Decor, Home Accessory, Home Furnishing, Wall Art, Wedding, Home Decor, Fancy Mirror, Hollywood Regency

Vintage shabby chic living room

With vintage vibes being a core element of shabby chic interiors, why not embrace the rest of this style, too?

We especially recommend it if you love feminine and highly decorative interiors.

Start with a palette including an abundance of white, light pastel colors, and pink, fuchsia, or red accents. Choose furniture and items with an aged feel, harmonious lines, and heavily ornate elements.

18. … a colorful boho take…

Vintage room with boho elements
Slic Design

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Alfa 3 Seat Sleeper (Redeyef Brown) by Bellona

Vintage room with boho elements

19th Century Cast Iron London Pub French Bistro Table W/Wooden Top

Vintage room with boho elements

Baer Hooked Ivory Rug

Vintage room with boho elements

Fauteuil relax inclinable

Vintage room with boho elements

Framed Art Print | Bouquet In Blue by Morgan Harper Nichols - Scoop Black - X-Small 8" x 10"-10x12 - Society6

Vintage room with boho elements

Hibiscus Flower 424 Digital Download Wall Art

Vintage room with boho elements

Globe vintage 1967 terrestre Taride tripode dor verre - 22 cm

Vintage room with boho elements

70s interiors in particular were characterized by heavily saturated elements and sections.

The same bold color choices are found in bohemian interiors too, so you could blend the two to create your own take on boho vintage living rooms.

Think patterns, natural wood finishes, and some more iconic boho elements such as rattan furniture and eclectic decorative items.

19. … or a Hollywood regency room!

Bold and opulent Hollywood regency living room
Lisa Gilmore Design

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Cisco Fabric JD Rye Black - Grade L - Linen - Swatch

Bold and opulent Hollywood regency living room

Shahbanu Rugs Husker Red Evenly Worn Pure Wool Abrash Hand Knotted Vintage Persian Heriz Tribal Ambience Clean Rug (7'1"x9'7")

Bold and opulent Hollywood regency living room

Coming soon

Bold and opulent Hollywood regency living room

Southern Enterprises MS1073T Window Pane Media Cabinet in Cherry Red, Transitional | Bellacor

Bold and opulent Hollywood regency living room

Fairport Wall Sconce - Aged Brass

Bold and opulent Hollywood regency living room

Parrot on Stand Floor Lamp

Bold and opulent Hollywood regency living room

1820s Group of 9 "Royal Residences" Aquatint Engravings by W. H. Pyne - Set of 9

Bold and opulent Hollywood regency living room

Pair of Antique Framed Photogravure made by Goupil & Co Wall Art

Bold and opulent Hollywood regency living room

Does your idea of vintage living rooms stem from the opulent homes of movie stars and directors from Hollywood’s golden age?

Then impress your guest with interiors where each piece looks as if it were one of a kind, and don’t hold yourself back when pairing up contrasting colors.

Other iconic Hollywood regency choices are animal prints, different textures, and glam, golden, glass, mirrored, or lacquered surfaces and accents.

20. Make your vintage living room more eclectic

Vintage living room with different styles
Steve Somogyi and Filip Malyszko, steve + filip design

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Holloway 13 in. Gold Round Metal Accent Table

Vintage living room with different styles

Addison Table Lamp - Ivory

Vintage living room with different styles

Coffee Table Square from Australian Hardwood Reclaimed Wood Local Made Wooden Living Room Coffee Table Custom Furniture

Vintage living room with different styles

Litton Lane 32 in. Iron Round Scrollwork Wall Mirror

Vintage living room with different styles

Art Print | Verneuil - Japanese Paper And Fabric Designs (1913) - 75: Ornamental Patterns by Public Domain Gallery - X-Small - Society6

Vintage living room with different styles

If you’re not a fan of perfect symmetries and cohesive results, you might want to consider drawing inspiration from different decades rather than fully embracing a specific vintage style.

For example, get creative by including eye-catching elements that, as well as different time periods, look as if they had been found in quirky shops or markets in other parts of the world.

21. Keep it cozy

Vintage living room with wooden furniture
Kristin Lam Interiors

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Blue / Brown Area Rug - RugPal Contemporary Stirling Area Rug Denim Color Polypropylene in Blue / Brown, Size 120.0 W x 0.3 D in | Wayfair

Vintage living room with wooden furniture

Rosecliff Heights Brandi 31" Table Lamp Glass/Linen in Black/Brown/White, Size 31.0 H x 18.0 W x 18.0 D in | Wayfair

Vintage living room with wooden furniture

"ALTAVISTA LANE Burled Walnut Rustic Americana 60\" Accent Coffee Table 1657-91"

Vintage living room with wooden furniture

1990s Pair of Keilhauer Maple Belle Accent Side Chairs by Tom McHugh

Vintage living room with wooden furniture

Free Shipping Within Continental US - Vintage Dresser Dovetail Drawers Cabinet Storage

Vintage living room with wooden furniture

Besthom Horizon Tan Nylon Ottoman

Vintage living room with wooden furniture

Club Chair - Bradington-Young West Haven 37" Wide Club Chair Genuine Leather / Fabric in Gray, Size 36.0 H x 37.0 W x 38.0 D in | Wayfair

Vintage living room with wooden furniture

While specific styles and influences make all the difference, at the end of the day your living room is still the place to gather with your family and friends: so, don’t sacrifice coziness in favor of decor.

Consider sticking to wooden furniture, a warm palette, and tactile textures that inspire comfort (for example, woolen blankets and fluffy pillows).

22. Include some Danish modern elements

Vintage living room with Danish chairs
NATALIE MYERS Veneer Designs

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Valour Performance Velvet Sofa Gray Modway

Vintage living room with Danish chairs

Vintage Turkish western Anatolian Kilim Rug

Vintage living room with Danish chairs

"Ficus Lyrata Tree Plant in 12\" Pot - Also Called Fiddle Leaf Fig or Pandurata - About 54\" tall - Nice!"

Vintage living room with Danish chairs

Noma Floor Lamp-Polished White Terrazzo

Vintage living room with Danish chairs

Silln Nordic (T), Fresno, Similpiel Negra

Vintage living room with Danish chairs

Modern Fog ColorStak- Set of 3

Vintage living room with Danish chairs

Rocking Chair with Pocket

Vintage living room with Danish chairs

Book Illustration of Medieval Weapons by Corbis - Painting Print

Vintage living room with Danish chairs

Here’s a creative take on vintage living rooms that brings style and coziness to the next level: some Scandinavian inspiration.

Danish modern design, in particular, offers the most possibilities since it boomed between the 40s and 60s.

As well as chairs with pure but creative lines, choose lighter wood finishes for more of a Scandinavian influence and warmer or darker ones to focus on the mid-century modern side of things.

23. Blend glass and wood

Vintage living room with bold colors
Kimball Starr Interior Design

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Table basse Astro ovale Victor Wilkins

Vintage living room with bold colors

Mid Century English Modern G Plan Astro Coffee Table

Vintage living room with bold colors

Set of 3 Iconic Poul Jensen for Selig "Z" Lounge Chairs and Ottoman

Vintage living room with bold colors

Paire de suspension plexiglas et chrome

Vintage living room with bold colors

Linden 71" Floor Lamp - Arteriors 76492-333

Vintage living room with bold colors

Kas Oriental Illusions 6207 Blue Green Rug - 9'10x13'2 - Rectangular

Vintage living room with bold colors

Litton Lane Brown Leather Vintage Accent Chair

Vintage living room with bold colors

Mini mundus dollhouse biedermeier dining chairs set of 2, furniture kit

Vintage living room with bold colors

Furniture that includes both wood and glass elements is another staple of retro interiors (mid-century modern and 70s homes in particular!).

Your coffee table is a central spot to experiment with this combination of materials, but you can find it in other pieces of furniture too, such as console tables and storage cabinets.

24. Gather around the fireplace

Vintage living room with a fireplace
Molly Erin Designs Inc

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Safavieh Kayley Rectangular Modern Glass Coffee Table

Vintage living room with a fireplace

Room & Board | Modern Jasper Chair in Blue Vento Leather w/ Metal Legs

Vintage living room with a fireplace

Theo Sofa Family - XL Sofa / M | shipping 4/11/2024

Vintage living room with a fireplace

Temu10/20pcs Oats Dried Flowers Bouquet Interior Living Room Decoration Ornament Diy Handmade Material Home Office Decorations

Vintage living room with a fireplace

"William Morris Pillow, Morris Pillow Cover, Strawberry Thief Pillow, Blue Bird pillow, 18\" x 18\", Arts & Crafts Movement Pillow, Soft Fabric"

Vintage living room with a fireplace

"William Morris \"Wandle\", Arts and Crafts, red, blue and yellow floral linen cushion cover, throw pillow cover, home decor."

Vintage living room with a fireplace

A cozy fireplace would certainly help reinforce the warmth and familiarity of vintage interiors.

If your living room includes one, position your retro furniture so that you can all gather around it, and use the mantelpiece to display a carefully crafted selection of items that add to your palette and vintage style.

25. Consider an antique kind of vintage living room decor

Antique vintage livi
Jessica Helgerson Interior Design

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Woven Table Lamp with Linen Shade

Antique vintage livi

Interlude Home Royce Lounge Chair - Finish: High Gloss Walnut, Natural White

Antique vintage livi

Vintage Armchairs in White, Set of 2

Antique vintage livi

Armchair - Latitude Run Francien 26.5" Wide Armchair in Brown, Size 28.0 H x 26.5 W x 27.5 D in | Wayfair

Antique vintage livi

Ether Multi Light Pendant Light - Medium / LED+Halogen

Antique vintage livi

Designer Crystal Chandelier for Living Room Bedroom Ceiling Light Fixture - Round D30.7 / Dimmable White Light

Antique vintage livi

Perhaps your idea of vintage goes further back than 70s glam and mid-century modern homes?

Then prioritize much darker furniture and wooden accents for an antique feel.

Heavily ornate pieces (for example, including cabriole legs or wood carvings) and sophisticated accents (like pendulum clocks) are the kind of elements you’re after. Curio cabinets are also a must with this type of vintage decor.

26. Showcase your attention to detail

White vintage living room
The Rustic Warehouse Designs

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Oh Hello Embroidered Throw Pillow

White vintage living room

1-1/4" Diamond Cut Acrylic Knob Clear and Chrome

White vintage living room

Oxford Center Bookcase

White vintage living room

5-Blade Brass Floral Shade Hanging Fan Lamp Classic Frost Glass 3 Bulbs Living Room Semi Flush Light, 42.5 W - Brass

White vintage living room

Cottage Collection Hand Rubbed Square Coffee Table with Drawer Beach White - International Concepts

White vintage living room

"Vintage Tapestry Style Pillow, 15\" X 12\" plus 2\" fringe"

White vintage living room

Antique Garden Fence, Wrought Iron Gate, Victorian Gate, Outdoor Decorations, Old Cute Chippy, Shabby Chic Decor, 1800s Salvage, Yard Art

White vintage living room

woven stripe pillows

White vintage living room

You don’t necessarily need to go overboard with your vintage living room! If you’d rather opt for a more subtle nod to this decorative style, channel it through smaller items and elements.

For example, this living room involves a fairly traditional decor style, but it’s made nostalgic through more ornate elements like the column-style layout of the fireplace, cupboard doors with recessed panels, and thoughtfully placed decorative items on the shelves.

27. Make the most of your coffee table

Vintage living room coffee table
Willadsen Design

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Milan Coffee Table Natural

Vintage living room coffee table

-  , Camille

Vintage living room coffee table

The Last Rose of Summer DIY Kit

Vintage living room coffee table

Big Blocks Crochet Afghan Pattern/Annie's Crochet Quilt & Afghan Pattern Club

Vintage living room coffee table

2 Crushed Velvet Sofa Cushion Covers - Invisible Zipper - WineRed / 24x24

Vintage living room coffee table

Wide Open Spaces Down Filled Pillow

Vintage living room coffee table

Blue and white pagoda Chinese pagoda ceramic pagoda chinoiserie vase pagoda Chinese vase porcelain vase blue and white China pagoda storage

Vintage living room coffee table

Copricuscino in velluto Dana

Vintage living room coffee table

Glass and wooden designs, ornate legs, aged finishes, retro pastel colors, mid-century modern legs… There are lots of different coffee table designs that you can consider for your vintage living rooms!

Because it’s right in the middle of your seating area, though, it’s the items you place on it that’ll make all the difference: be sure to include some retro or nostalgic ones, from old book editions to ceramic souvenirs.

28. Include some starburst designs

Vintage living room with a starburst mirror
Laura Lee Home

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Vanguard Furniture Crew Extended Sofa

Vintage living room with a starburst mirror

1 Pea Planta Artificial Folha , Verde Tecido Falso Folha De Eucalipto , Para Casa Decorao

Vintage living room with a starburst mirror

Upholstered bench, Ottoman bench, Living room bench, Piano bench, Vanity bench, Bedroom bench, Entry bench, Hallway bench, Shoe bench

Vintage living room with a starburst mirror

Art Print: Asti Cinzano, c.1920 by Leonetto Cappiello : 24x18in

Vintage living room with a starburst mirror

Fauteuil en cuir marron

Vintage living room with a starburst mirror

Eichholtz Solaris Mirror

Vintage living room with a starburst mirror

Pagoda Table Lamp Contemporary Fabric 1 Bulb Task Lighting in Gold for Living Room - Gold

Vintage living room with a starburst mirror

20"x20" Oversize Velvet Bold Butterfly Print Square Throw Pillow Blue/Ivory - Edie@Home

Vintage living room with a starburst mirror

It’d be hard not to find any of these shapes in 50s and 60s homes!

The iconic starburst design is an immediate giveaway of your vintage inspiration, and you can use it through one or more of these strategic elements: mirrors, picture frames, overhead lights, clocks, and smaller decorative items on shelves.

29. Relax on some leather upholstery

Vintage living room with leather seats
Designology Luxury Interiors

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Campora, 1986, by Marco Zambrelli

Vintage living room with leather seats

Brigitte Sofa - Leather 9031 GR 9

Vintage living room with leather seats

Strie Buffet Table Lamp - Aged Iron

Vintage living room with leather seats

Solid Cashmere Throw - Black - A&R Cashmere

Vintage living room with leather seats

Mid Century Modern Style Chair by Adriana Hoyos

Vintage living room with leather seats

Mid-Century Black Ebonized Isabella Rocking Chair by Karl-Axel Adolfsson

Vintage living room with leather seats

Leather furniture is sophisticated and timeless, but there are certain designs and colors that were particularly popular over the past decades.

For instance, consider brown and tan leather, tufting or channeling, long horizontal shapes, wooden legs, or instantly recognizable sofa designs like the chesterfield.

30. Include a showstopping floor lamp

Vintage living room with a 70s floor lamp
Kimball Starr Interior Design

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Nourison Home GRW04 Rug - Size: 7'10" x 9'10"

Vintage living room with a 70s floor lamp

1980s Vintage Arts & Crafts Queen Anne Thomasville Maple Open Arm Side Chair in Flame Stitch Upholstery

Vintage living room with a 70s floor lamp

Modern Minimalist Style Chandelier-Bamboo Lamp Shade-Fabric Lamp Shade-Home Decor Lamp-Blue&Gray Color Pendant Light

Vintage living room with a 70s floor lamp

17 Stories Contracted Oil Wax Leather Sofa Living Room Straight Foam&Down Orange 70.87"Length Genuine Leather in Brown / Orange | 30.31 H x 70.87 W x 35.43 D in | Wayfair

Vintage living room with a 70s floor lamp

John Lewis Hector 3 Arm Arched Floor Lamp

Vintage living room with a 70s floor lamp

Duralee Furniture Uptown 60" Recessed Arm Loveseat in Gray/Brown, Size 36.0 H x 60.0 W x 34.0 D in | Wayfair

Vintage living room with a 70s floor lamp

"Vintage Mid Century Modern Teak \"Astro\" Coffee Table by G Plan"

Vintage living room with a 70s floor lamp

Shaw Insightful Way Carpet in Park Avenue | Nebraska Furniture Mart

Vintage living room with a 70s floor lamp

As well as a vintage table lamp and a starburst overhead light, you could impress everyone with a bold floor lamp that’s both functional and decorative.

Colorful and rounded dome shades are a great starting point for a 70s vibe, especially if paired up with nickel finishes. Victorian lamp shades (perhaps with fringes) convey more of a nostalgic vintage feel, or just focus on retro designs with geometric shapes.

Foter is a premier architecture, decoration, interiors and design website. We inspire and guide you to make your home a more attractive place.

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