
Step into the charm of yesteryear with beautifully designed rooms and staircases featuring vintage themes. In this article, we present stunning photos that capture the timeless elegance of vintage interior design, showcasing how antique details, retro colour palettes and classic architectural elements bring character to both staircases and surrounding spaces. From ornate banisters and stained wood finishes to vintage lighting and decor, these ideas demonstrate how to infuse your home with nostalgic appeal. Whether you’re restoring a historic property or adding vintage touches to a modern home, these inspiring spaces will spark your creativity and love for timeless design.
1. Statement Lighting
Install vintage-style chandeliers, wall sconces, or lamps with brass or crystal detailing. Read the Case Study.

2. Incorporate Antique Furniture
Look for genuine antique pieces such as armoires, dressers, or coffee tables to create a foundation for the vintage theme.

3. Incorporate Patterned Wallpaper
Opt for floral, damask, or Art Deco patterns to set a vintage backdrop. Read the Case Study.

4. Distressed Finishes
Choose well loved carpets and soft furnishings, furniture with distressed paint or wear-and-tear for an authentic aged appearance. Read the Case Study.

5. Add Retro Appliances
Big, chunky fixtures such as radiators and Agas add a vintage feel and good, old fashioned quality materials! Use vintage-inspired kettles, radios or fridges to maintain the theme in modern kitchens. Read the Case Study.

6. Use a Soft Colour Palette
Stick to muted tones like pastel pinks, blues, and creams for a classic vintage look. Read the Case Study.

7. Opt for Vintage Mirrors
Mirrors with gilded frames or bevelled edges enhance light while adding an elegant touch. Read the Case Study.

8. Install Traditional Flooring
Parquet or checkerboard tiles bring a vintage feel to kitchens and hallways.

9. Include Upcycled Furniture
Give old pieces new life with fresh upholstery or creative reuses like bringing these old outdoor pots inside. Read about Walnut staircases.

10. Monochrome Design
Black & White never went out of style fo a good reason. This modern hallway has a timeless appeal!

11. Add a flourish to your staircase
By adding a continuous handrail or styles volute to you staircase handrail, you evoke memories of the high quality craftsmanship of times gone by.

12. Match your doors
If your theme is oak, continue it throughout the home to include doors, staircases, cills, worktops & furniture.

13. Create a Gallery Wall
Curate a mix of vintage frames, clocks, and prints for an impactful feature wall.

14. Make a Grand Statement
If you’ve got it, flaunt it. These carefully chosen spindles pair beautifully with 3 storeys of walnut feature staircase!

15. Wood Panelled Walls
Wood panelled walls are a feature of historical buildings which are making a well deserved come back!

16. Choose Traditional Rugs
Persian or oriental rugs can tie together the vintage aesthetic in a living or dining room.

More Ideas…
Second-Hand Shopping: Visit flea markets, car boot sales, or charity shops to find one-of-a-kind vintage treasures.
Display Vintage Art and Prints: Hang retro posters, black-and-white photographs, or oil paintings in ornate frames.
Layer Textures: Use lace, velvet, or chenille throws, paired with embroidered cushions, to add depth and charm.
Feature Old-School Accessories: Add rotary phones, typewriters, or gramophones for nostalgic flair.
Repurpose Old Items: Turn vintage suitcases into side tables or crates into shelving for added character.
Incorporate Vintage Crockery: Display fine china or colourful teapots on open shelves for a quaint vibe.
Use Heavy Curtains: Velvet or brocade drapes in deep colours like burgundy or navy evoke an old-world charm.
Discuss your ideas with the experts
If you’re looking to add the vintage touch to your home with an Abbott-Wade staircase, be sure to get in touch with our staircase experts.
We will discuss your requirements in detail and once we know the basics, we can then get started on creating a design that’s both functional and stylish.
To speak to a member of the team directly, call 01744 634 442 today.