If an autumn chill is setting in and impending gray winter skies are getting you down, try spicing things up with a hot retro vibe. For some time now, manufacturers have been resurrecting and reinventing appliances, accents, and accessories in bright shades and curvy patterns reminiscent of the mid-20th century. A splash of color here or a throwback centerpiece there could be just what your clients need to feel groovy again.
Bounce Back
Harkening back to its launch in the 1950s, Formica has resurrected its lively Boomerang laminate collection in funky colors including skylark (powder blue), aqua, coral, and charcoal. The collection had been taken out of circulation during the late ’90s, but was updated and reintroduced after the maker saw an increase in requests when home restorations boomed in the early 2000s. The new collection takes advantage of modern printing techniques to create the boomerang-shaped graphic known so well. Formica.800.367.6422. www.formica.com.
Italian Ambiance
The Bellissima SO adjustable chandelier features a polished steel frame surrounded by hand-blown glass diffusers. The Mod design alternates milk-white concave diffusers with convex satin glass in amber and red. The luminaire mounts to a standard 4-inch junction box and requires a 24x40 W T4 G9 double-loop lamp (not included). The fixture measures 26.7 inches in diameter, 13.7 inches in height, and suspends up to 98.4 inches from the ceiling. Studio Italia. 305.621.9602. www.sid-usa.com.
Tile Style
An influential textile designer, Alexander Girard has channeled his inspiring mid-20th century creativity into a collection of vibrant and whimsical carpet tile rugs for Flor. Each rug in the La Fonda del Sol consists of six graphic tiles that can be used together or combined with the maker’s other Flor tile styles, such as Take a Ribbing and Toy Poodle. All Flor tiles are square and measure 191/2 inches on a side. Visit the Web site for product details and information about benefits for industry professionals. Flor. 866.281.3567.www.flor.com.
Retro Range
In celebration of its 75th anniversary, Vent-A-Hood released two limited-edition range hoods, the Classic and the Model A (shown). The retro designs incorporate the latest technology, including the maker’s Magic Lung blower. The Model A (model number AH12) is available in 30- and 48-inch widths in standard painted finishes, and operates at 300 to 600 CFM. Special widths and paint colors are available at an additional charge. Vent-A-Hood. 800.331.2492. www.ventahood.com.
Cool, Man
With a 9.2-cubic-foot capacity, the model FAB28UPR refrigerator/freezer makes a big impact in small spaces with its 1950s style. Despite a retro exterior, the unit’s interior is fully modern, featuring antibacterial materials, fixed and adjustable glass shelving, and several produce and dairy compartments. The unit measures 571/2 inches high, 271/2 inches wide, and 235/8 inches deep. Smeg USA. 866.736.7634. www.smegusa.com.
Playing With Fire
The EcoSmart Fire “Retro” freestanding fireplace takes its inspiration from 1960s pop culture, featuring rounded corners and a “tube” design. Ideal for accenting modern and creative spaces indoors or out, the Retro comes in a spectrum of colors, including red, yellow, blue, and mint green. Made from weatherproof fiberglass, stainless steel, and toughened glass, the fireplace is designed to accept the EcoSmart burner. The unit measures 35 inches wide, 35 inches tall, and 21 inches deep. The Fire Company. 310.914.3335. www.ecosmartfire.com.