Lose yourself in Deptford Market and you’ll spot armchairs stacked outside shops. They’re rough round the edges, but that’s the charm

From Markets to Mansions: London’s Love for classic armchair designs Vintage Sofas and Armchairs I can’t walk past a retro armchair without stopping for a look. We had an old floral sofa that was patched and custom furniture designs sagging. It weren’t showroom-perfect, but it was part of us. In the days of smoky pubs and jazz clubs, you didn’t buy throwaway chairs. You’d go second-hand instead of brand new. That history clings to vintage pieces. I dragged a velvet armchair home from Camden.

Some would’ve laughed at the state of it, but I knew straight away it had something. It’s carried me through late nights and lazy Sundays. Each district carries its own vibe. Belgravia keeps it polished, with grand accent chairs. Brixton thrives on colour, quirky chairs for living room with funky retro chairs. Every corner tells a different story. The catalogue stuff has no soul. Retro pieces become part of your life. They remind us life isn’t flawless. If you ask me straight, retro armchairs will always beat flat-pack.

An armchair should hug you back. So next time you’re tempted by something new, stop and think of the markets. Choose a funky accent chair, and watch it age alongside you.