Retro, Reimagined
Why Interior Designers Are Embracing Retro Maximalism and Artist-Made Prints
Bold wallpaper is back — and it’s bringing the 1970s along for the ride. For interior designers looking to craft vibrant, personality-filled spaces, retro florals and warm palettes are proving to be go-to tools. But instead of pulling from dusty vintage rolls, today’s designers are turning to artist-made prints that marry nostalgic charm with fresh, modern energy.
At the heart of this shift is the return of maximalism. Saturated colors, curvy shapes, and layered patterns — all iconic to '70s interiors — are showing up in bold new ways. This isn’t about replicating the past; it’s about reimagining it with an artistic edge.
That ethos is woven into Groovy Garden — a wallpaper and fabric collection that channels the free-spirited vibe of the '70s while feeling completely at home in modern spaces. Its bold, hand-drawn florals are whimsical without being fussy, making them an ideal match for interiors that are anything but ordinary.
Meet Groovy Garden: A Top 50 Standout in Spoonflower’s Wallpaper Challenge
Designed by Flos Aquae Designs, Groovy Garden placed #47 out of 1,690 entries in Spoonflower’s recent “1970s” design challenge — a testament to its broad appeal and versatility. The hero print is scaled specifically for wallpaper, while the coordinating designs (including trailing vines, mod dots, and ogee patterns) are ideal for upholstery, curtains, and accent pieces.
Whether you're designing a single statement wall or building out a fully layered space, the collection offers everything you need to create a cohesive look with vintage-inspired charm.
A showcase of coordinated maximalism.
Groovy Garden combines statement florals, and graphic patterns, add some playful ruffles to create a look that’s both nostalgic and thoroughly modern.
Why Designers Are Turning to Artist-Made Prints
As interior design moves toward more curated and personalized spaces, there’s been a noticeable shift away from mass-market patterns. Designers are sourcing from independent artists and platforms like Spoonflower — where prints feel fresh, unique, and tailor-made for creative projects.
Working with artist-made prints allows for more flexibility, more storytelling, and more soul. You’re not just choosing a colorway — you’re choosing a voice. And that voice can help define the entire mood of a room.
At Flos Aquae Designs, all prints are original, hand-drawn, and available on demand. That means no minimums, easy sampling, and the ability to order wallpaper, fabric, or finished products as needed. For interior designers, that flexibility can be a game-changer.
Final Thoughts: Let Your Spaces Speak
Groovy Garden is proof that bold doesn’t have to mean busy — and retro doesn’t have to mean dated. With artist-designed prints, designers can strike the perfect balance between playful and polished.
Whether you’re styling a maximalist powder room, layering textures in a cozy guest room, or adding personality to a boutique commercial space, this collection brings color, movement, and individuality to the table (and the walls).
🪴 Ready to explore?
Browse the Groovy Garden collection on Spoonflower »
