INSPIRATION | Crafting Timeless Interiors With VCT

Space-Age Nostalgia

The vision for Panoramica was a futuristic space inspired by the 1950s and 1960s, an era rich with space-age design and optimism. The team wanted to evoke the idea of a "what if" alternate timeline—a coffee shop with a space age theme. With this concept in mind, the design drew inspiration from retrofuturism, with curvy, sleek lines and soft, rounded features—elements that set the stage for an unforgettable interior. VCT played a pivotal role in this concept, as it offered the flexibility and durability needed to create an intricate and visually dynamic floor that complemented the space’s unique aesthetic.

TeeVee, known for his meticulous craftsmanship, brought this vision to life through VCT, hand-cutting the tiles into geometric patterns that seamlessly fit together. The customization of VCT tiles was essential to achieving the retro-futuristic look, and TeeVee’s design process involved sketching out patterns on paper, experimenting with different shapes and colors, and translating these ideas onto the VCT. Using a Scrollsaw, he carefully cut each tile to create a cohesive and artistic floor that was not only a visual centerpiece but also a functional element for the high-traffic coffee shop.

What makes VCT ideal for commercial spaces like Panoramica is its remarkable blend of style and practicality. VCT is known for its durability, which is essential in a high-traffic setting, and ensures that the space remains pristine over time. VCT’s flexibility also allows designers to create custom patterns and designs, whether through geometric shapes, dynamic curves, or a combination of both.

For Panoramica, TeeVee used a palette of soft pastels and bold lines, merging retro inspiration with modern sensibilities. The floor itself became a work of art, with soft blues, mint greens, and gentle pinks set against bold lines of deep white/charcoal colors that evoke the past while feeling fresh and modern. The floor wasn’t just a practical element; it became a key component in immersing visitors in the space’s unique atmosphere. These colors not only fit the space-age aesthetic but also provided a welcoming and vibrant environment that invited patrons to relax and enjoy the experience, whether they were sipping a local coffee blend or browsing the curated retail wall of food items.

Bringing Vintage Eras to Life

The Times Vintage, a popular vintage store in Greenport with one-of-a-kind pieces that are gently used and genuinely loved, also benefitted from TeeVee’s creative expertise with VCT. This renovation combined elements of several decades of design, integrating modern touches with the store's vintage aesthetic. A key element of this transformation was the use of custom VCT in the 1950s inspired avocado green and pink kitschy kitchen display area where vintage kitchenware is sold. For the dressing rooms, TeeVee hand-cut vibrant, retro patterns that paid homage to the 1970s. His design included angular shapes and a playful color palette, each tile a carefully crafted piece of art that fit seamlessly into the space.

The color palette at The Times Vintage was more varied, reflecting the diversity of design styles across the decades the store draws inspiration from. In the dressing rooms, TeeVee chose a striking mix of bold oranges, deep greens, and mustard yellows, tones that captured the essence of the 1970s. These retro hues complemented the soft lighting and vintage furniture, creating a playful, nostalgic atmosphere. The colors were also chosen to reflect the store’s eclectic mix of clothing and jewelry, where vintage items from different eras live harmoniously under one roof. The VCT tiles, with their appealing shapes and warm, earthy tones, felt like a perfect fit for the space, enhancing the overall feeling of stepping into a time capsule.

One standout feature of The Times Vintage renovation is the jewelry display, which features rounded cutouts and light-up elements to echo the space-age style of the 1960s. Saetta also built a multi-tiered shelving unit with mustard-yellow shelves, further blending vintage nostalgia with contemporary design elements. The VCT flooring in the dressing rooms, with its bold patterns and lively colors, adds to the experience of stepping into a different era, much like Panoramica’s retro futuristic feel.

Rediscovering VCT in Interior Design

The use of VCT in both Panoramica and The Times Vintage highlights the material’s versatility. VCT is often associated with commercial spaces, but its design potential is immense, offering a cost-effective and customizable solution for designers. Its classic economical value and durable construction, combined with neutral hues and bold colors, ensure lasting beauty in high-traffic commercial spaces. Its ability to be custom cut into geometric and organic shapes allows designers to create one-of-a-kind designs that truly capture the essence of a space.