Wander Around Camden Lock And You’ll Notice Sofas With Decades Of Life. They’ve Aged In Public But That’s Their Story

London’s Retro Revival: Why Vintage Armchairs and statement armchairs Sofas Still Rule I’ve always had a soft spot for old furniture. My first memory of proper furniture is my grandad’s wingback chair. The arms were shiny from years of elbows, but it felt alive. When London was swinging, a sofa wasn’t just a sofa. You’d hand down sofas from parents to kids. It’s in the sag of the springs. I found a retro accent chair in a Dalston car boot. The legs were wobbling, but as soon as I sat down it felt right.

That chair still sits in my flat. London’s furniture scene splits by neighbourhood. Hampstead stays calm, with velvet designer armchairs. Brixton thrives on colour, with industrial armchairs. London wouldn’t be London without the variety. New furniture looks dead next to vintage. Vintage finds get better with years. They carry scratches like tattoos. When it comes down to it, I’ll pick a vintage sofa over new every time.

A sofa should tell your story. Before you grab a soulless bargain, wander a street full of second-hand shops. Save a battered seat, and make it part of your story.