Wander Around Camden Lock And You’ll Find Sofas With Decades Of Life. They’ve Aged In Public But That’s What Makes Them Magic

Why Retro Furniture Still Beats Flat-Pack in London I’ve always had a soft spot for old furniture. The family armchair was covered in throws but still solid. It was worn, patched, and squeaky, but it felt alive. During the heyday of Soho, a sofa wasn’t just a sofa. You’d keep the same chair your whole life. That history clings to vintage pieces. I once pulled a Chesterfield out of a warehouse in Hackney. The legs were wobbling, but you can’t fake that kind of comfort.

It’s become part of my story. Each district carries its own vibe. Mayfair goes glossy, with plush seating. Brixton thrives on colour, bedroom chair vintage with upcycled seats. Every corner tells a different story. Showroom sofas don’t talk back. Old-school sofas last decades. They carry scratches like tattoos. Truth be told, I’ll pick a vintage sofa over new every time. An armchair should hug you back. Next time you’re thinking of flat-pack, go dig through a car boot.

Pick up a retro contemporary leather armchair, and accent settee let it grow with you.