Retro Style Home: Interior Tips & Wallpapers

The charm of retro style interiors lies in their ability to transport us back to an era of bold patterns, vibrant colours, and unique design elements. Embracing retro style in your home not only brings a sense of nostalgia but also allows for a fun and playful approach to decorating. This guide will delve into the key aspects of retro style interiors, offer practical tips on how to achieve this look, and highlight some stunning wallpaper options to complete your retro-inspired home.

Understanding Retro Style

Retro style is a broad term that covers various design trends from the 1950s to the 1970s. This era was marked by a mix of bold and vibrant colours, geometric patterns, and unique materials. Here are some key characteristics:

Bold colours

Retro style is known for its use of bright, eye-catching colours such as mustard yellow, avocado green, burnt orange, and teal. These colours can be used on walls, furniture, and accessories to create a lively atmosphere.

Geometric patterns

Patterns play a crucial role in retro interiors. Think of large polka dots, chevrons, stripes, and abstract shapes. These patterns can be incorporated into  wallpapers, textiles, and decor items.

Vintage furniture

Retro furniture often features clean lines, tapered legs, and a mix of materials like wood, metal, and plastic. Look for iconic pieces like mid-century modern chairs, formica tables, and vintage sideboards.

Unique accessories

Accessories in a retro home often include items like lava lamps, record players, and vintage posters. These elements add character and a touch of whimsy to the space.

Mix of textures

Combining different textures, such as shag rugs, velvet upholstery, and glossy finishes, can enhance the retro vibe.

Our retro wallpapers will surprisingly transform your space

Wallpaper is a fantastic way to bring retro style into your home. Here are some of our stunning options to consider:

Groovy geometrics collection

Geometric patterns are synonymous with retro style. Choose a wallpaper with bold, abstract shapes in vibrant colours to make a statement. This type of wallpaper works well in living rooms, dining areas, and bedrooms.

Retro style wallpaper #1: Slow Assembly, Geometric Pattern Wallpaper

Transform your walls with the striking Slow Assembly Geometric Pattern Wallpaper. Featuring a gradual build-up of abstract shapes inspired by the everyday world, this design is perfect for creating a bold statement. Its dynamic geometric patterns make it an ideal choice for those looking to infuse their rooms with a modern and retro style touch to your home.

A modern bathroom, accentuated by the Slow Assembly Geometric Pattern Wallpaper in Black, features a unique mirror and contemporary amenities. The room’s design, lighting, and decor harmoniously complement the wallpaper’s bold patterns.

Retro style wallpaper #2: Tribe, Geometric Pattern Mural Wallpaper

Experience the captivating allure of Tribe Geometric Pattern Mural Wallpaper. This unique design features expansive geometric shapes—circles, squares, and rectangles—that blend seamlessly in soothing colorways. The visually harmonious masterpiece pairs beautifully with sleek, modern furniture, making it perfect for transforming any space into a contemporary retro-style interior.

The room features a wall adorned with multicolored Tribe Geometric Wallpaper, complemented by a pink chair on wooden flooring.

Featured: Tribe, Geometric Pattern Mural Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #3: Arcadian Harmony, Geometric Wallpaper

Step into an era of elegance and sophistication with Arcadian Harmony. This stunning wallpaper features a geometric curved pattern that adds a modern twist to any room, embodying the essence of retro style with a touch of contemporary flair. It's perfect for adding a sense of refined sophistication to your interiors.

Arcadian Harmony, Geometric Wallpaper in red colourway featured on a wall of a living area

Featured: Arcadian Harmony, Geometric Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #4: Giselle, Geometric Pattern Wallpaper

Revamp your space with the vibrant retro charm of Giselle. This eye-catching wallpaper blends geometric elements like round shapes, semi-circles, dots, stripes, and diagonal patterns to create a visually captivating effect. Its dynamic design brings a playful yet sophisticated retro style to any room.

Giselle, Geometric Pattern Wallpaper in industrial living room

Featured: Giselle, Geometric Pattern Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #5: Diablo, Geometric Wallpaper

For those seeking a bold statement, Diablo is the perfect choice. This colourful wallpaper features fine lines organically arranged within captivating shapes, adorned with vibrant rainbow colours. It exudes a unique blend of retro and contemporary styles, making it an ideal match for dark wood furnishings and adding a striking visual impact to any space.

A lively room featuring Diablo, Geometric Wallpaper with colorful striped patterns, vintage furniture, and modern audio equipment creating a dynamic contrast.

Featured: Diablo, Geometric Wallpaper

Floral fantasies collection

Floral patterns were incredibly popular in the 60s and 70s. Opt for a wallpaper with oversized, colourful flowers to add a touch of whimsy and femininity to your space. This type of wallpaper is perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, and even kitchens.

Retro style wallpaper #6: Song Birds, Animal Pattern Wallpaper

Enhance your living space with the retro elegance of Song Birds. This expansive wallpaper features large, airy motifs showcasing colourful flowers, berries, and tropical birds. The upward-reaching branches create a sense of expansiveness, while the light and exotic pattern adds a touch of vintage luxury. The design comes to life against various background colours, allowing for a customisable retro-inspired look in your room.

Song Birds, Animal Pattern Wallpaper in black featured on the wall of room with a round table and chairs

Featured: Song Birds, Animal Pattern Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #7: Adora, Vintage Floral Pattern Wallpaper

Bring the vibrant retro charm of Adora Vintage floral pattern wallpaper right to your home. This wallpaper features oversized flowers in stunning cream, yellow, orange, and blue hues. The Adora Vintage floral pattern seamlessly integrates with most colour schemes and interior design ideas. Perfect for adding a touch of nostalgic elegance, Adora transforms any room into a captivating retro haven.

A room is transformed by the Adora, Vintage Floral Mural Wallpaper in Sand, showcasing large beige and pink flowers with gray leaves on a white background. The room is further enhanced by natural light, plaid curtains, and stylish footwear.

Featured: Adora, Vintage Floral Pattern Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #8: Pixie, Floral Pattern Wallpaper

Infuse your walls with retro whimsy with Pixie. This enchanting wallpaper weaves together nature and fantasy, showcasing minty green foliage and delicate white flowers. Playful pixies and butterflies add a magical touch, making Pixie an ideal choice for creating a whimsical and nostalgic atmosphere in your home.

Closed up, Pixie, Floral Pattern Wallpaper featured in a dining area with a drawer full of books on top and round violet dining table.

Featured: Pixie, Floral Pattern Wallpaper

Striking stripes collection

Stripes are a versatile pattern that can fit seamlessly into a retro interior. Look for wallpapers with wide, colourful stripes to create a dynamic and energetic atmosphere. Striped wallpapers work well in hallways, living rooms, and home offices.

Retro style wallpaper #9: Pastel Candy Stripes, Wallpaper

Indulge in the whimsical allure of Pastel Candy Stripes. Reminiscent of retro sweets, this wallpaper features diagonal stripes in gentle pastel hues of pink and blue. Evoking sweet childhood memories, it promises to transform any space into a haven of happiness and creativity. Each stripe tells a story, creating a captivating and imaginative backdrop for your home.

A vibrant attic room with a coral sofa, Pastel Candy Stripes, Wallpaper, colorful throw pillows, contemporary art, a multicolored chest of drawers, and playful area rugs.

Featured: Pastel Candy Stripes, Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #10: Delicate Stripes, Wallpaper

Step into a timeless era with Delicate Stripes, a classic wallpaper that epitomises versatility and elegance. Featuring fine, evenly spaced stripes, this design can be applied to the top, bottom, or entire wall, mimicking the look of traditional panelling when used partially. Available in a wide array of colours, Delicate Stripes is a perfect fit for various retro-inspired interior design schemes, adding a touch of sophistication to any space.

A modern kitchen bathed in natural light, featuring olive green cabinetry and a wooden countertop. A round stool sits near the counter, all set against a wall with Delicate Stripes, Pattern Wallpaper in Honey.

Featured: Delicate Stripes, Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #11: Coral Mint Stripes, Pattern Wallpaper

Transport your space to a perfect retro summer day with Coral Mint Stripes. This delightful wallpaper features a fusion of coral, mint, and nude hues that radiate warmth and cheerfulness. Its charming colour combination brings the vibrant spirit of the season into your home, making it an ideal choice for creating a retro yet refreshing atmosphere.

A tastefully decorated corner of a room featuring Coral Mint Stripes pattern wallpaper. A white dresser holds a plant, books, and decor, under a framed leaf art. The room exudes a sense of tranquility and elegance.

Featured: Coral Mint Stripes, Pattern Wallpaper

Playful retro motifs collection

Consider wallpapers that feature iconic retro motifs such as starbursts, atomic designs, and pop art-inspired prints. These wallpapers add a playful and nostalgic touch to any room. They are great for home offices, kids’ rooms, and creative spaces.

Retro style wallpaper #12: Ressa, Abstract Geometric Wallpaper

Decorate your interior with the retro charm of Ressa. This captivating wallpaper showcases colourful geometric shapes layered to create a dynamic visual effect. The earthy tones and varying shapes make it a unique and stylish choice, perfect for adding a touch of retro sophistication to any room.

Ressa, Abstract Geometric Wallpaper, enhances a cozy room’s modern aesthetic. Pastel tones mix with bold shapes. A wooden dresser and comfy sofa add charm.”

Featured: Ressa, Abstract Geometric Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #13: Confetti Party, Pattern Wallpaper

Add a touch of retro energy and vibrance using Confetti Party in your living spaces! This lively wallpaper features an array of small shapes—circles, squares, triangles, and semicircles—treated with a textured stamp ink effect. Versatile and suitable for all ages and genders, this design is perfect for both commercial and residential spaces. Whether as a striking accent wall or paired with stylish decor, it adds a playful touch to any room, reminiscent of mid-century modern aesthetics.

A contemporary room featuring a wooden cabinet against a vibrant wall. The wall is adorned with a Confetti Party, Pattern Wallpaper, filled with colorful geometric shapes in Crimson Dark Blue colourway. A potted plant adds a touch of nature atop the cabinet, and a large leafy plant to the right enhances the room’s serene.

Featured: Confetti Party, Pattern Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #14: Tetris, Pattern Wallpaper

Ignite your children’s imaginations with Tetris, a retro-inspired wallpaper filled with vibrant, colourful toy building blocks. Perfect for bedrooms and play areas, this design transforms spaces into bright, happy environments. Children will adore the fun and playful interior it creates, bringing a nostalgic nod to classic video game aesthetics.

A stylish room with Tetris, Pattern Wallpaper in Black/White, a modern black couch, a wooden shelf with various items, and colorful wall art creating a contemporary aesthetic.

Featured: Tetris, Pattern Wallpaper

Muted hues collection

For a more subtle take on retro style, opt for wallpapers in muted hues. Soft pastels, earthy tones, and faded patterns can create a vintage feel without overwhelming the space. These wallpapers are suitable for bedrooms, bathrooms, and calming living areas.

Retro style wallpaper #15: Geometry, Mural Wallpaper

Bring a touch of retro joy and creativity to your space with Geometry. This captivating mural showcases abstract geometric shapes, seamlessly blending the artistry of pastel watercolours. The muted hues create a harmonious and visually stunning backdrop, perfect for evoking a sense of mid-century modern charm and imaginative playfulness.

Geometry, Mural Wallpaper, featured on a wall of bedroom against potted plants, creating a soothing atmosphere.

Featured: Geometry, Mural Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #16: Terrain Bold, Abstract Mural Wallpaper

Uplift your living spaces with the artistic allure of Terrain Bold. This wallpaper showcases abstract shapes in earthy tones, complemented by graceful, flowing white lines. Perfect for those who appreciate unique and artistic touches, Terrain Bold redefines interiors with a nod to retro abstract art, making your everyday surroundings a canvas of creativity and inspiration.

Terrain Bold, Mural Wallpaper graces a cozy living area, where it complements a soft sofa set, creating an inviting and comfortable atmosphere.

Featured: Terrain Bold, Abstract Mural Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #17: Artist Palette, Pattern Mural Wallpaper

Elevate your room's atmosphere with Artist Palette, a vibrant colour-block design inspired by mid-century modern aesthetics. This mural injects a burst of retro colour and style, ideal for spaces needing a chic accent. The subtle hues and depth of this wallpaper brighten up any home or office, crafting an outstanding feature wall that pays homage to the playful and bold palettes of the past.

Artist Palette, Pattern Mural Wallpaper in soft colourway featured on a wall of a bedroom

Featured: Artist Palette, Pattern Mural Wallpaper

Retro style wallpaper #18: Arch Decor in Blue, Geometric Wallpaper

Transform your space with the stunning Arch Decor in blue. Drawing from the opulent art-deco trend of the 1920s and 1930s, this wallpaper evokes a sense of retro glamour without overwhelming your decor. Its captivating geometric design and serene blue tones create a perfect backdrop, adding a touch of vintage sophistication to a variety of interior settings.

Arch Decor in Blue, Geometric Wallpaper featured on a wall of a living area with blue sofa, rattan single chair, and a glass square table

Featured: Arch Decor in Blue, Geometric Wallpaper

Tips for incorporating retro style wallpapers to your home

Tip #1: Start with a colour palette

Choosing the right colour palette is crucial for setting the foundation of a retro-inspired home. Opt for a combination of bold and muted tones. For example, you can pair mustard yellow with earthy browns or combine teal with soft pinks. Use these colours on walls, furniture, and accessories to create a cohesive look.

Tip #2: Incorporate vintage furniture

Furniture plays a significant role in retro interiors. Look for vintage pieces or modern reproductions that capture the essence of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Iconic pieces such as the Eames lounge chair, tulip tables, and kidney-shaped coffee tables can be great additions. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and eras to create an eclectic yet harmonious space.

Tip #3: Use retro theme wallpaper

Geometric patterns are a hallmark of retro style. Incorporate these patterns through wallpapers, rugs, cushions, and curtains. A bold geometric wallpaper can serve as a focal point in the room, while smaller patterns can be used on textiles and decor items to add visual interest.

Tip #4: Add unique decorations

Accessories are the finishing touches that bring a retro space to life. Look for vintage finds like rotary phones, typewriters, and old radios. Display these items on shelves or side tables to add character and a sense of nostalgia. Additionally, consider incorporating retro art prints and posters on your walls.

Tip #5: Mix textures and materials

Combining different textures and materials can enhance the retro vibe. Use shag rugs, velvet cushions, and glossy finishes to create a tactile and visually appealing space. The contrast between these elements adds depth and richness to the decor.

Tip #6: Pay attention to lighting

Lighting is an essential element in any interior design style, and retro is no exception. Look for vintage-inspired lighting fixtures such as pendant lights, floor lamps, and chandeliers. Opt for designs with metallic finishes, colourful shades, and unique shapes to complement the retro aesthetic.

Embrace retro charm and transform your home now!

Retro style interiors are all about celebrating the past while creating a fun and vibrant living space. By following these tips and incorporating the right wallpapers, you can achieve a stylish and nostalgic home that pays homage to the 50s, 60s, and 70s. So, embrace the bold colours, playful patterns, and unique textures of retro style and transform your home into a timeless haven of vintage charm.

Why choose Hello Circus’ wallpapers?

We understand your wall comes in different shapes and sizes. Each wallpaper is therefore customised to the dimensions of your wall, making each wallpaper unique to your home. We also sell by per meter square (Height x Width x Unit Price) and not by rolls so that you only pay for what you need for your wall.

Check out our guide on how to measure your wall for wallpaper!

Benefits of our wallpapers

  • High Quality: Our wallpapers are printed on high quality non-woven paper in factories with the highest standards from Europe. They are reinforced with nylon fibres to make the wallpaper stable and resilient.
  • Matte and non-reflective: Our non woven wallpapers are coated with soft and non-reflective matte finishing.
  • Safe and non-toxic: Our products are printed using stain resistant, VOC-free (Volatile Organic Compounds) inks on breathable, PVC (Polymerizing Vinyl Chloride) free paper. This ensures that your family and more importantly, your kids are not exposed to toxic chemicals which are usually present in traditional paint and wallpapers, all of which may have harmful health effects. 
  • Antimicrobial Protection
  • Wallpaper washability: All our wallpapers are washable, meaning that their surface is resistant to damage, and any domestic dirt or water stains can be wiped with a damp cloth or sponge.
  • Resistant to colour fading: Our production technology is designed to ensure optimum resistance to colour fading.
  • Fire resilient: Our wallpapers are fire rated in accordance with EN ISO 11925-2.

Read more about our wallpaper materials and check out our Ultimate Guide to Wallpapers for answers to the most commonly asked questions about wallpapers.

Interested in getting our wallpaper?

For wallpaper quotation: Please click on “Get Quote/Buy” of the product page that you like and submit enquiry with wall dimensions. Check out our bestselling wallpaper collection to get inspired! Installation is available as an add-on service for selected countries.

Feel free to contact us if you have are interested in the following:

  • Bulk orders
  • Corporate orders
  • Selling with us
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July 23, 2024 — Daphnie Teo

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