The intrigue and character brought by vintage furnishings cannot be matched. From a teak sideboard to a statement armchair, adding a touch of retro in your home interior can bring a whole new dimension to your aesthetic.
UnSUBURBIA spoke with Ian Appleyard and Steve Elvidge, co-founders of Pool Bank Vintage Interiors, to get an insight into all-things vintage inspiration.
- How was Pool Bank Vintage Interiors founded?
We’re both independent dealers and were initially looking for a new space to expand and to use for storage, workshops and distribution purposes. But we found an amazing old paper mill that was just too good to keep to ourselves, so we founded Pool Bank Vintage Interiors in January 2018.
- What is the next big trend in vintage interiors and what should we be buying?
There probably isn’t one stand-out trend, but several styles. The vogue for mid-century design will certainly continue but fused with a little more glamour (Hollywood Regency is the name inexplicably linked to this), boho chic and a touch of the gilded oriental. 2019 will not be minimal. But for us, buying what you like is always the best bet.
- What would you say is your favourite decade/era of vintage furnishings?
Almost certainly Scandinavian design of the 1950’s and 60’s, followed very closely by the brighter, more retro continental design of the 60’s and 70’s.
- Is there any type of furnishing which is popular with your customers at the moment?
People will always appreciate a good sideboard and a good chair. More customers are now recognising that well-made and well-designed furniture is an investment (both financial and in lifestyle) rather than a luxury.
- What is your most exciting vintage find to date?
We have a genuine Eames lounge Chair & Ottoman in store. It’s always the real deal that gets copied the most that’s the best find – the difference in quality and craftsmanship is always obvious.
- What would your dream find be?
We all dream of a call to visit a house of a trendy 1950’s architect who spent all their money on furniture and hasn’t changed the interior style since, who didn’t smoke or have a cat and is wanting to downsize.
- Which do you prefer: a maximalist or a minimalist interior style?
We are maximal in the bedroom and minimal in the kitchen.
- What advice would you give to someone who is wanting to introduce vintage furniture into their home and looking for their first piece?
Don’t be too precious. It’s just a nicely designed piece of furniture that will last longer, give you more pleasure than some flat-pack nonsense and is much more ethical too.
- What is your favourite Instagram account to follow for vintage inspiration?
We’ve got to say: @pool_bank_vintage_interiors – sorry!
- Do you have any specific brands/designers whose work/furnishings you keep a keen eye out for?
Some of the classic Danish designers are our favourites – Kai Kristiansen Johannes Andersen Arne Jacobsen, Hans Wegner – and we keep our eye out for the works of continental stars, such as Vico Magistretti and Eero Saarinen.
Contact details
Website: https://www.poolbankinteriors.co.uk/
Tel: 01132 843991
Email: info@poolbankinteriors.co.uk
Address: Unit 22 Pool Business Park, Pool in Wharfedale, Otley LS21 1FD
Opening hours: Fri, Sat, Sun & Mon 10-4.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pool_bank_vintage_interiors/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/poolbankvintage/
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