Refresh, Restyle - Aug/Sep 2025
Modern practicality with a sense of vintage nostalgia
Modern practicality with a sense of vintage nostalgia
We focus on an OFFICE AREA for this issue of HouseFinder.
THE PROJECT
Our client, a businessman representing All African Aviation, commissioned 3D renderings in preparation for a future renovation of his private office. The design brief called for a space that balances modern practicality with a sense of vintage nostalgia, rooted in the client’s passion for aviation.
THE STYLE
Modern Vintage Nostalgia – clean lines, warm textures, aviation memorabilia, and classic charm.
Before
REQUIREMENTS
- Incorporate a functional desk and visitor chairs
- Refresh the space with new paint colours
- Introduce aviation-themed décor
- Retain a vintage nostalgic atmosphere
SOLUTION
I decided to create a space where my client feels most confident, and a workspace that brings him joy. A place where deals can be signed.
- Finishes & colours: Walls are painted in a warm neutral tone for timeless elegance, while the deep navy accent wall adds contrast. The door is replaced with a wooden door.
- Furniture & layout: A contemporary wood-finish desk anchors the space, complemented by a mid-century style desk chair and two blue visitor chairs. A matching cabinet with glass doors provides clean storage for books, files and aviation gadgets.
- Aviation-themed décor: Framed vintage airplane prints bring character and passion to the focal wall. The metal propeller clock, globe stand and model aircraft refer back to yesteryear while reinforcing the aviation narrative.
- Textiles & accessories: A richly patterned oriental-style rug infuses the room with warmth and visual interest. Textured window blinds filter light while adding privacy and subtle style. Observe the mid-century modern desk lamp which reinforces the vintage feel.
After
HOW TO CREATE
a space by merging nostalgic elements with contemporary ones.
Colour palette – Choose a neutral colour palette as your foundation and layer it with earthy, heritage-inspired accents such as navy blue, olive green, mustard yellow and maroon, complemented by touches of walnut.
Furniture – Combine modern clean lines with old-look splendour. Opt for mid-century and vintage-style furniture with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. By adding an antique cabinet or old leather armchair, you can blend eras seamlessly.
Materials & textures – Layering materials is key to evoking nostalgia. Combine grandma’s crocheted knee rug with modern soft-to-the-touch textiles, or incorporate other tactile elements like woven baskets, ceramic accents and aged metal details.
Lighting – Opt for pendant lights or chandeliers with a retro or industrial flair. The colour of brass instantly takes one back into the past. Combine brass table or floor lamps with matte black or wood finishes. Modern-day filament bulbs mimic the appearance of Edison’s original bulbs, combining the aesthetic of the old with the efficiency of the new.
Flooring – Go for timeless flooring like light to medium-toned wooden floors or wood-look alternatives. Anchor the room with patterned rugs in oriental, geometric, or faded vintage styles. The family heirloom Persian rug deserves to be centre-stage.
Aleza Mays
Interior Decorator
Seeking expert interior design advice or consultation? From colour consulting to project renderings, we’ve got you covered.
Contact aleza@housefindernam.com
