Latest news with #retrodesign
The Sun
29-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Iconic car brand to REVIVE ‘minimalistic' hatchback loved in the '80s – but with a modern twist
MOTORISTS can now get their hands on an iconic '80s design - but with a modern twist. The car has been redesigned and modernised, while keeping all of the much-loved original features. 4 4 4 Bringing it into the future with a new electric model, Skoda has reimagined their popular Favorit hatchback. The updated version is based on the original 1987 version, retaining its retro feel without cliche features. Its electric model was design by Ljudmil Slavov and took around 120 hours of his own time. He said: "I wanted to update the original idea for today, when various SUVs are popular." Ljudmil added: "A higher body structure allows for better battery placement in the floor." With a retro design to base the new model on, Ljudmil wanted to "evolve and elevate" the "already minimalistic" features of the 1987 hatchback. He described this process as "very challenging." "I sketched many versions, searched for the ideal shape of the grille and headlights, tried different perspectives and consulted a lot with colleagues," Ljudmil said. Some of the features are clearly paying homage to the original design. Its interior mirror some of the car's original design features, although we're yet to see photos of the specific design. The seats' headrests are modelled on the open-centred items in the retro model, while brown leather upholstery is used to reference 1980s fashion. Some of the features Skoda drivers have come to recognise in their newer models are missing, with the 'Tech Deck' face being a notable exclusion. Its wheels are inspired by the placeholders used when the wheels aren't a prominent part of the design. The front and rear lights have been modernised with LED running lights and covers hiding the main-beam lamps. Motorists might be surprised by the rear-hinged doors - a departure from the original design. This isn't the first time that Ljudmil has designed a car inspired by the Favorit - in the early 1990s he designed a rally version that achieved success in the World Rally Championship's F2 class. The rally design differed from the new passenger version as it was both lower and wider, with unpainted plastic bumpers. Over the last few years, Skoda has released several cars that were inspired by historic models. In 2021, they released cars inspired by the 1203 van, Voiturette A, Felica Cabriolet, 130RS and Popular Monte Carlo. Ljudmil was also responsible for designing the re-imagined Popular Monte Carlo. 4
Daily Mail
12-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Daily Mail
Bunnings shoppers go wild over $49 item - but not everyone's impressed
A retro-inspired $49 table lamp from Bunnings is dividing the internet - with some shoppers hailing it as a must-have piece of home decor, while others say it looks suspiciously like a giant glazed doughnut or a caramel pudding. The Verve design Elton table and wall light, available in vibrant orange and muted green, has become the latest object of obsession among design-savvy bargain hunters. Its distinctive doughnut-shaped silhouette and coloured glass finish tap directly into the resurging 1970s design aesthetic that's dominating Australian interiors. But while fans say it's a stylish and affordable way to add instant character to any room, others aren't quite convinced. 'I thought it was a caramel dessert,' one shopper wrote. 'Literally looks like a Werther's Original,' said another. A third added, 'I can't believe it's not a giant glazed doughnut.' Despite the sweet comparisons, most agree that the lamp offers a delicious slice of retro charm at a price point too good to pass up. Made from tinted glass, what sets it apart is its versatility, as it functions as both a table lamp and a wall light, which is a huge selling point for renters or those looking to maximise space without committing to fixed fittings. Whether positioned on a bedside table, shelf, or mounted on a wall, the lamp casts a soft, ambient glow perfect for winding down at the end of the day. Interior design expert Lucy Sutherland previously told FEMAIL that such lamps are right on trend, thanks to a full-blown resurgence of 1970s style in Australian homes. 'We saw a big revival of 1970s style, bringing back the bold, quirky aesthetics of that era,' she explained. 'Claret red and mustard yellow were key colours, paired with high-gloss finishes that added a sense of retro glamour.' According to Sutherland, the new wave of '70s design is less kitsch and more curated. Think plush velvet couches, sculptural lighting, and rich, tactile materials like chrome, gloss lacquer, and coloured glass. 'Coloured glass also made a comeback - not just in vases and accessories but in side tables, coffee tables, and more,' she said. 'It's all about combining nostalgic elements with contemporary style.' The Verve design lamp does exactly that. In orange, it brings a sense of warmth and whimsy - perfect for pairing with soft textiles, wooden furniture, or terrazzo tiles. The green version, meanwhile, offers a more subtle, earthy feel, and works beautifully in boho, mid-century modern, or eclectic interiors. 'The orange is so cosy, but then the green is amazing,' one shopper wrote, unable to choose a favourite. 'I don't need any more lamps… but I want this! Off to Bunnings tomorrow,' added another. While it's certainly drawing praise for its aesthetic value, the lamp also speaks to a broader shift in how Australians are decorating their homes. The rising cost of living means many are turning to affordable retailers like Bunnings and Kmart for stylish, budget-friendly updates. With housing prices soaring and fewer people moving into new spaces, the focus has shifted to refreshing interiors rather than renovating them - and lighting plays a key role. One of the most defining elements of the current '70s revival, Sutherland noted, is its accessibility. 'Velvet was one of the first indicators of this shift - it emerged suddenly, with plush, groovy velvet couches popping up everywhere. For people who lived through the '70s, it might have been an era they never wanted to see again, but now, enough time has passed for it to feel fresh and exciting.' For younger buyers, it's a chance to engage with design history for the first time, and items like the Verve lamp offer an entry point into the aesthetic without breaking the bank. It's nostalgic but new, vintage but versatile. Of course, not everyone is sold. The unusual shape and glossy finish have sparked plenty of debate. One user said, 'Green one is just a slightly flat apple, love it,' while another called it 'very 1970s' - though it wasn't clear if that was praise or criticism. Regardless of how you see it - retro glam, modern minimalism with a twist, or novelty dessert - the lamp has managed to strike a chord. And in true Bunnings fashion, it's flying off the shelves. Whether you're a design aficionado chasing the latest trend, a renter looking for quick upgrades, or just someone who loves the idea of a lamp that looks good enough to eat, this $49 wonder might just be the sweetest home buy of the season.
Auto Express
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Express
Car Deal of the Day: Fiat 600e offers high-mileage EV drivers 12,000 miles a year for just £342 a month
Retro design 254-mile range; 12,000 miles a year for £342.03 a month Love the retro flair of the Fiat 500e but feel it's a bit too small on the inside? The 600e is its bigger brother, combining similar levels of panache with a welcome dose of practicality. But, despite its larger size, you can get one for a remarkably small price even if you're a high mileage driver. Advertisement - Article continues below If you scour the Auto Express Find a Car service, you'll find that Pink Car Leasing is offering the fashionable Fiat for £342.03 a month. Not the most eye-catching price, admittedly, but this deal isn't for the 5,000-mile limit we usually feature. You get a whopping 12,000 miles a year. That gives fantastic flexibility for higher mileage drivers who don't want to be stung for travelling further during their lease agreements. This is a 48-month deal which requires £4,104.31 to be put down as an initial payment – not the cheapest but remember this is a 12,000-miles-a-year deal. The package gets you a 600e in 'Red' trim – that's the name of it, although it does also come painted in a vibrant shade of red as standard. Also included is climate control, rear parking sensors, LED headlights, a digital instrument display and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Fiat also throws in a heat pump to improve efficiency during the winter. The 600e shares a lot of its components with the likes of the Peugeot E-2008 and Vauxhall Mokka Electric, so under the cutesy styling lies a 54kWh battery pack which gives a claimed 254 miles of range. A 154bhp electric motor gives keen performance, while supple suspension gives a cosseting and refined driving experience. The Car Deal of the Day selections we make are taken from our own Auto Express Find A Car deals service, which includes the best current offers from car dealers and leasing companies around the UK. Terms and conditions apply, while prices and offers are subject to change and limited availability. If this deal expires, you can find more top Fiat 600e leasing offers from leading providers on our Fiat 600e hub page. Check out the Fiat 600e deal or take a look at our previous Car Deal of the Day selection here… Find a car with the experts Car Deal of the Day: Volvo XC60 Black Edition is a mean-looking, posh SUV for under £450 a month Car Deal of the Day: Volvo XC60 Black Edition is a mean-looking, posh SUV for under £450 a month The XC60 is Volvo's best-selling car, and loved by Brits. It's our Deal of the Day for 6 May New BMW 1 Series and electric i1 to target younger drivers with bold design New BMW 1 Series and electric i1 to target younger drivers with bold design The BMW 1 Series is set for a shake-up, with a Neue Klasse front end and a choice of hybrid or battery electric powertrains when it arrives in showroo… EV affordability alarm! Running costs are £6k higher than for petrol cars, say car clubs EV affordability alarm! Running costs are £6k higher than for petrol cars, say car clubs Running costs for car share club EVs are £6k higher than ICE equivalents according to new data
