Moving into a student flat ain’t glamorous. The carpet smelled like beer, but we dragged in whatever we could find. No student can afford Mayfair prices, so we grabbed second-hand. We carried a wingback through Dalston. It felt like Shoreditch, but that’s what made it home seating solutions. Vintage sofas feel alive, and we don’t need polish, we need real. I’ve watched half my flat pass out across two chairs, and those seats carried us.

Markets spill chairs onto the streets, and designers take inspiration from it. One afternoon I stumbled into Smithers, and the sofas looked like they belonged in films. we left with just one piece, but it’s survived three house parties and a flood. Every student flat tells the same story. it’s what makes memories. Armchairs don’t mind if you fall asleep in them. Modern stuff? Forget it, accent chair and sofa but vintage carries weight. every wobble tells the truth.

Looking back after twelve months, you don’t remember the kettle, but you remember the sofa. If you find yourself in a Shoreditch flat, retro accent chairs forget the catalogue shine. Choose a funky accent chair, and let it carry your student nights.