STYLE : Novelty and Nostalgia

A growing emphasis on conserving planet resources--combined with sheer nostalgia--is creating some of today’s most inspired rooms. Retro interiors come from thrift stores, flea markets, garage sales and even the neighbors’ trash. By its very nature, recycling develops new uses--a rusted Coke cooler topped with a slab of concrete driveway becomes a sideboard. A patio set from the Salvation Army, coated with bright paint, stands in for expensive dining furniture. And when buying big-ticket items isn’t practical or desirable, rentals may be the answer.