Lose Yourself In Deptford Market And You’ll Find Sofas With Decades Of Life. They Ain’t Showroom Clean But That’s The Point

From Markets to Mansions: vintage accent chairs London’s Love for Vintage Sofas and Armchairs I’ve always had a soft spot for old custom furniture designs. Growing up, there was a sofa in our house that had seen it all. It sagged in the middle and smelled faintly of tea, but it had heart. Back in the sixties, you didn’t buy throwaway chairs. You’d go second-hand instead of brand new. It’s in the weight of the wood. I dragged a velvet armchair home from Camden.

It weren’t pretty at first glance, but the weight told me it was the real deal. That chair still sits in my flat. Every borough in London has its own taste. Kensington loves velvet, with grand accent chairs. Camden loves the clash, with upcycled seats. The clash gives it character. Showroom sofas don’t talk back. Old-school sofas get better with years. They’re not perfect, but neither are we. If you ask me straight, an old funky accent chair means more than new gloss.

A chair should hold your nights. Next time you’re thinking of flat-pack, go dig through a car boot. Save a battered seat, and make it part of your story.