8. Retro 70s Checkerboard
Retro design is making a massive comeback, and nothing says vintage cool quite like a 70s-inspired checkerboard pattern. This aesthetic is playful, bold, and full of personality. Instead of the traditional black and white, opt for a warm, nostalgic color combination such as sage green and cream, mustard yellow and warm white, or burnt orange and dusty pink. The slightly imperfect, hand-painted look of the squares adds a charming, artisanal touch that mass-produced home decor simply cannot replicate.
To paint this, lightly sketch a grid around your vase using a pencil. If your vase is tapered or curved, the squares will naturally distort, which actually adds to the whimsical, retro charm. Carefully fill in alternating squares with your chosen accent color, leaving the base color exposed in the others. This statement piece looks incredibly stylish when styled alongside vintage vinyl records, mid-century furniture, and lush green houseplants like monstera or pothos.