Business Details
32 Years
experience
Handmade & Vintage Furniture for Home and Commercial Spaces
Established in 1994 by Saxon Durrant, Metroretro has evolved from selling vintage design classics in London's Camden Market to becoming a specialist in industrial and Mid-Century furniture. Our journey expanded through two shops in Islington before relocating to a farm in Little Leighs, Essex, where we now combine original vintage pieces with bespoke handmade furniture. With over three decades of experience, we prioritise reclaimed materials in our handmade collections, ensuring each piece maintains both character and sustainability. Our expertise extends to commercial projects, having collaborated with architects and designers for bars, restaurants, and retail spaces since 2001. We offer made-to-order solutions that guarantee perfect fit and aesthetic, alongside sourcing vintage items for private and trade clients.Our portfolio includes large-scale commissions for creative agencies, cafes, and event spaces, demonstrating our adaptability to diverse design challenges. Backed by a deep understanding of historical design, we blend 19th-century craftsmanship with 1980s industrial aesthetics. Our team's longevity in the sector ensures clients benefit from specialist knowledge of material sourcing, restoration techniques, and contemporary adaptations. We maintain authority in the vintage design market through consistent quality and innovative repurposing of salvaged elements. Transparency in our processes and commitment to client collaboration underpin our reputation for delivering distinctive, durable furniture solutions.
Services
Handmade Furniture
Vintage Furniture
Custom Commissions
Prop Hire
Commercial Projects
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years' experience in vintage and handmade furniture since 1994
- Our handmade furniture incorporates reclaimed materials for sustainable design
- We offer bespoke commissions tailored to specific spatial requirements
- Proven track record with commercial projects for cafes, offices, and retail spaces
- Expertise in adapting vintage designs for modern functional needs
Services
Handmade Furniture
Our handmade furniture collection combines reclaimed materials with contemporary design. Each piece is made to order, ensuring perfect fit and aesthetic. We specialise in steel and timber combinations that echo industrial heritage while meeting modern requirements.
Vintage Furniture
We curate original vintage pieces from the 19th Century to 1980s, focusing on Mid-Century Modern and Industrial styles. Our stock includes design classics and institutional pieces, carefully restored while preserving authentic character and patina.
Custom Commissions
We create tailored furniture solutions for specific spatial needs. Recent projects include modular office tables, kitchen islands with reclaimed timber, and steel-and-timber media units. All commissions incorporate salvaged elements while meeting exact dimensional requirements.
Prop Hire
Our prop hire service offers vintage and handmade furniture for events and film productions. The collection includes tables, seating, storage units, and decorative pieces that add authentic character to commercial projects and visual merchandising displays.
Commercial Projects
We deliver complete furniture solutions for cafes, offices, and retail spaces. Services include bespoke counters, modular tables, and custom storage systems. Our experience spans projects for creative agencies, independent coffee shops, and fashion retailers nationwide.
People
Saxon Durrant
Founder
Saxon founded Metroretro in 1994 after recognising demand for vintage design classics. He expanded the business from Camden Market stalls to commercial projects, developing the handmade furniture range that now complements the vintage collection.
Questions
What styles of furniture do you specialise in?
We focus on Mid-Century Modern and Industrial/Institutional styles, with stock ranging from 19th Century antiques to 1980s vintage pieces.
Can you create bespoke furniture to specific measurements?
Yes, all handmade furniture is made to order with custom dimensions to suit your space and requirements.
Do you work with commercial clients?
We regularly collaborate with architects, designers, and businesses on projects ranging from cafes to office fit-outs.
What materials do you use in handmade furniture?
Our handmade pieces primarily use reclaimed timber and steel, combining sustainable materials with durable construction methods.
Can I view furniture before purchasing?
Our Essex warehouse holds stock for viewing by appointment, with options to see pieces in situ through our commercial projects.
Do you deliver furniture nationwide?
We offer delivery options across the UK, with specialist transport arrangements for large or fragile items.
Reviews (1)
Benjamin Gale
Sep 16, 2016
Report
An extremely well hidden gem in rural Essex. Very knowledgeable owner with a extremely good eye for quality and design.