- 1). Learn the history of modern furniture design, especially from the 1950s to the 1970s. Modern technologies, mass production and a focus on functionality caused a fundamental shift from the heavily ornate furniture of the past. Study the design aesthetic that influenced this shift. Start with Donald Gomme's G-Plan and Ib Kofod-Larsen's architectural furniture to develop your furniture design ideas.
- 2). Take notes on the common characteristics of the retro furniture you study. For example, G-Plan furniture had splayed, tapering legs, with no ornamentation, to suggest a light and "uncluttered" look. Ib Kofod-Larsen's chairs were often molded towards the natural recline and repose of the human body, in sharp contrast to the painfully straight-backed chairs of the Victorian era. Think about ways to incorporate the minimalist aesthetic with functionality for the human form as you develop ideas for your retro furniture design.
- 3). Make sketches of your design ideas. Start with expressive sketches that capture the movement and style of your retro furniture. These can be quick sketches, done in less than a minute, with charcoal or graphite to narrow down your general idea. Put all of your sketches up on a wall and choose the sketch that best captures your unique retro style.
- 4). Refine your favorite sketch. Create a detailed sketch a craftsman specializing in furniture construction can use with approximate measurements. Choose materials that fit the retro design aesthetic. For example, aluminum and lightweight woods were popular choices during this time. Look for upholstery that fits a retro design, such as bold prints or bright, primary colors. Include swatches of your chosen upholstery with your sketch, as well as details on the woods or metals you want used in the construction of your retro furniture design.
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