Welcome to retrofuturism, where the mid-century design features of the past meets the innovation and edginess of the future! 

This intriguing design style (sometimes called atomic age design) is a blend of old fashioned interior design with futuristic elements, creating spaces that feel both nostalgic and ahead of their time. Think The Jetsons meets Blade Runner.

In this post, we’re going to explore retrofuturism in interior design, and how you can bring this unique style into your home.

But first things first, some of you may be wondering…

What is retrofuturistic interior design?

Retrofuturism really started making waves in the 1950s, right after World War II, when amazing new technologies like computers, lasers and rocket engines came to life. 

It marked quite a significant shift away from the early 1900s’ ideas of what the future would look like and brought a fresh, exciting perspective on what was to come.

Initially, as a subgenre of science fiction, retrofuturism mostly found its place in sci-fi and steampunk literature, comics and films. Even magazines started to sprinkle in futuristic themes and before long, it caught the public’s attention and by the 1980’s, it had become one of the hottest trends. 

Music videos of the 1980’s through to the early 2000’s, with the Y2K movement, became a huge platform for retrofuturistic interior design – where the idea of futuristic technologies and space age creativity was really allowed to run wild.

What makes retrofuturism so fascinating is how it mixes old-fashioned styles with futuristic concepts. There’s this cool clash of timelines that draws people in, creating a fun yet complex design style.

It’s had a lasting influence on modern design, shaping everything from gadgets, to the homes we live in today!

Key Elements of Retro-futuristic Design

To really embrace retrofuturism, there are a few basics you have to get to grips with:

Futuristic Shapes and Forms

One of the hallmarks of retro-futuristic design is the use of bold, futuristic shapes and forms. 

Think curved lines, geometric patterns and streamlined furniture. These elements create a sense of movement and innovation, making your space feel dynamic and forward-thinking.

Metallic Accents

Metallic finishes play a crucial role in retro-futuristic interiors. Chrome, stainless steel and brass are commonly used to add a touch of shine and reflectivity. These materials not only boost the futuristic vibe but also create a sense of luxury and add to the high-end look.

Bold Colours and Contrasts

Retro-futuristic interior design often features bold, vibrant colours paired with striking contrasts. Classic retro hues like turquoise, mustard yellow, warm orange tones and bright red are combined with futuristic shades like silver, black and neons. This colour palette creates a lively and energetic atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and cutting-edge.

Space-Age Lighting

Lighting is a key component in creating a retro-futuristic ambiance. Think Sputnik chandeliers, lava lamps and neon lights. These types of lighting fixtures not only brighten up your space but also serve as eye-catching statement pieces that embody the spirit of retrofuturism.

High-Tech Gadgets

Incorporating high-tech gadgets and smart home technology is essential for achieving a truly retrofuturistic look. 

From voice-activated assistants to smart lighting systems and automatic doors, these modern conveniences blend perfectly with the vintage-inspired decor, creating a harmonious balance between past and future.

Bringing Retrofuturism into Your Home

Ready to put some retrofuturism in your interior design? Here are some practical tips to help you get started:

Start with the Basics: Furniture

When it comes to furniture, opt for pieces that feature clean lines, bold shapes and a mix of retro and modern materials. 

Mid-century modern furniture is always a great starting point, as it embodies many of the principles of retrofuturism. Look for items with tapered legs, simple silhouettes and a combination of wood and metal finishes.

Play with Patterns and Textures

Patterns and textures are key to creating a rich and engaging retrofuturistic space. 

Geometric patterns, abstract designs and space-themed motifs can all add visual interest and depth. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different textures, such as smooth metals, chunky plush fabrics and glossy surfaces to create a layered and dynamic look.

Embrace Vintage Tech

Vintage technology is really hot right now and can add a charming touch to your retrofuturistic interior. 

Items like old radios, typewriters and record players not only serve as nostalgic decor pieces but also highlight the contrast between past and future technologies. Display these items proudly to celebrate the evolution of design and innovation.

Incorporate Futuristic Art

Artwork is a powerful tool for expressing the retrofuturistic vibe. 

Look for prints and paintings that feature futuristic landscapes, space exploration themes, or abstract designs. These pieces can serve as focal points in your space and reinforce the overall theme of your interior.

Create a Space-Age Kitchen

The kitchen is a fantastic place to experiment with retrofuturistic design. Stainless steel appliances, glossy cabinetry, and bold colour accents can all contribute to a space-age feel. 

Consider installing a retro-inspired fridge alongside a modern induction hob with a downdraft extractor to blend vintage charm with cutting-edge technology.

Design a Futuristic Living Room

In the living room, focus on creating a comfortable yet visually striking space. 

Opt for a mix of mid-century modern furniture, metallic accents and bold lighting fixtures. A curved sofa, a geometric coffee table and bulbous lighting which are all offset with a calming colour palette, can all work well together to create a cohesive retrofuturistic visual style.

Transform Your Bedroom into a Futuristic Haven

For the bedroom, choose furniture and decor that promote relaxation while still leaning into the retrofuturistic theme. 

A platform bed with an angular headboard, metallic bedside tables and bold bedding can all contribute to a futuristic feel. Add some ambient lighting, such as a lava lamp or LED strip lights, to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

Don’t Forget the Details

The little details can make a big difference in achieving a retrofuturistic home. 

Consider adding futuristic hardware to your cabinets and doors, such as chrome or brass handles. Incorporate space-themed decor, like starburst mirrors or planet-inspired artwork, to reinforce the theme. 

And don’t forget about the doors themselves!

Which style of door is best for Retrofuturistic interiors design?

It would be crazy of us to overlook internal doors when it comes to retrofuturism as they really can make or break the look you’re going for. If you’re going for that cool retrofuturistic vibe, your internal doors can really feed into that statement you’re trying to make. 

Here are some fun options to consider that perfectly blend a touch of vintage with a futuristic feel:

• Flush Doors: Think smooth, minimalistic doors with either a high-gloss or matte finish. Glossy flush internal doors can add a shiny, space-age look, while matte is perfect for a more modern, subtle touch where the door can blend effortlessly into the wall. Either way, you’ll be right on-trend!
• Metal and Glass Combos: Doors with metallic frames (like aluminium) paired with simple frosted glass inserts scream retrofuturism! They channel that mid-century modern vibe with a futuristic twist perfectly.
• Pivot or Pocket Doors: Not only are they super practical, but they add a high-tech, space-saving feel too. Perfect for a home that’s all about simple lines and a forward-thinking design, you could even automate your pocket doors to really level up the futuristic feel.
• Geometric or Curved Designs: If you want to play with shape, go for doors with geometric patterns or even rounded edges. Retro shapes are a key feature, and these will give your space a fun, eye-catching twist.
• Bold Colours or Monochrome: If changing your doors isn’t an option, then the colours you choose can really make a difference. Whether you’re into striking monochrome neutrals (black, white, grey) or bold pops of colour (think teal, orange, or metallic gold), your doors can pack a punch while fitting right into the retrofuturistic look.

Mixing old-school charm with futuristic flair has never been so much fun!

The Benefits of Retrofuturistic Design

Retrofuturism isn’t just about creating a visually stunning space, it also offers several practical benefits.

A Timeless Visual Style

By blending elements from the past and future, retrofuturistic design really can create a timeless look that won’t easily go out of style. This means your space will continue to look fresh and relevant for years to come and only minimal effort will be needed should you ever fancy a change.

Versatility

Retrofuturism is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit a variety of personal styles and preferences. Whether you prefer a more vintage or a more futuristic look, you can customise the design to reflect your unique taste.

Creativity and Fun

Retrofuturistic design is perfect for encouraging creativity and experimentation. By mixing and matching different elements, you can create a space that is truly one-of-a-kind and reflects your personality beautifully. 

Plus, the playful and imaginative nature of retrofuturism makes it a fun design style to work with.

Conversation Starter

A retrofuturistic interior is sure to impress and intrigue your guests. The unique blend of vintage and futuristic elements creates a really memorable space that will no doubt spark conversations and leave a lasting impression.

Retrofuturism: A Look into the Future

As we look to the future, retrofuturism continues to evolve and inspire new design trends. 

The fusion of past, present and future elements allows for endless creativity and innovation, making it a dynamic and ever-changing design style. Here are some emerging trends within the retrofuturistic movement:

Sustainable Design

With a growing focus on sustainability, retrofuturism design gives you the perfect opportunity to incorporate eco-friendly materials and practices into your home. Reclaimed wood, recycled metals and energy-efficient technologies are becoming more prevalent, allowing homeowners to create stylish and environmentally conscious spaces more easily.

Smart Home Integration

The integration of smart home technology is becoming increasingly important in retrofuturistic design. From automated lighting and climate control systems to voice-activated assistants and smart appliances, these technologies really bolster the futuristic aspect of the design while adding convenience and functionality to your home.

Biophilic Elements

Biophilic design, which emphasises the connection between humans and nature, is definitely finding its way into retrofuturistic interiors. 

With the dystopian idea of losing natural resources an ever growing reality, incorporating things like plants, natural light and organic materials and shapes adds a sense of balance and tranquillity to your space, creating a harmonious blend of futuristic and natural elements to create a sort of “safe haven”.

Personalisation and Customisation

As retrofuturism continues to gain popularity, there is a growing emphasis on personalising and customising. 

Being more conscious of the items used, more homeowners are seeking out unique and bespoke pieces that reflect their individual style and preferences. 

Custom furniture, one-of-a-kind artwork and tailored design solutions allow for a truly personalised retrofuturistic interior.

Embrace the Retrofuturist Revolution

Retrofuturism is a wonderfully imaginative design style that offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and innovation. 

By adding elements from the past and future, you can create a space that is visually stunning, functions well and is uniquely yours. Whether you’re designing a space-age kitchen, a futuristic living room, or a cosy retro-inspired bedroom, the possibilities really are endless.

If you’re keen to give it a go, experiment with bold colours, futuristic shapes and vintage-inspired decor to create a space that feels both familiar and fantastical. 

And don’t forget to check out our wide selection of stylish interior doors that can level up the overall look and feel of your retrofuturistic home.