While some might avoid 1990s interior design trends, I’m a lover of homes that embrace this aesthetic. Whether it’s an entirely chrome kitchen or a study panelled in honey oak, there’s something not only iconic but enduringly stylish about interiors from the 1990s.
While I’ve long loved the retro industrial style, after looking back at Martha Stewart’s Fifth Avenue apartment (that’s been in her possession for over thirty years), I’ve never been more convinced that the ’90s interior design style is one of the chicest out there.
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Martha’s New York City apartment is a walking time capsule. It features all the usual 1990s trends, but in true Martha fashion, it of course features an array of antique furniture and decor. From mid-century lighting (Martha’s living room features a floor lamp much like this mid-century Rectangle Chrome Adjustable style from Etsy) to antique furniture, her apartment is a lesson in mixing styles.
While fitting a chef’s kitchen might not be on the agenda, you’ll be pleased to know recreating the ultra-chic aesthetic is more than easy with these luxurious picks.
To recreate Martha’s deeply stylish dining table, focus on building a collection of chrome or silver servewear. This small Julep vase is deeply charming and filled with character and will transform a handful of buds into an artful arrangement.
Upholstered Burlap Accent Chair
Martha’s home office is so warm and inviting. Featuring wooden built-in storage, it’s the ultimate 1990s work station. The vintage rattan desk chair is effortlessly chic and brings a refined feel to the space, much like this burlap accent chair from Wayfair.
European Chrome Pepper Mill
You’ll notice plenty of chrome in Martha’s kitchen. To recreate the look, incorporate chrome cookware in your space, like this elegant pepper mill that’s not only practical but deeply luxurious.
KitchenAid® Artisan Stand Mixer, 5-qt (Contour Silver)
To create a truly Martha-inspired kitchen, place this stainless steel KitchenAid blender on your countertop for a stylish yet functional set-up. To make it even more 90s-inspired, scatter some chrome bowls on a shelf and plenty of stainless steel pans.
Yearby 65.5” Tree Floor Lamp By Mercury Row
Midcentury lighting is scattered throughout Martha’s apartment. You’ll notice in her lounge a rather chic yet minimal arrangement that features a wooden screen, vintage bench and a luxurious chrome floor lamp, much like this iconic style that’s shoppable for less than $150.
Hemmer Round Solid Wood Base Dining Table By Canora Grey
Balance industrial materials with lived-in antiques for the ultimate Martha-style space. Take Martha’s breakfast nook as an example. Featuring a round table much like the Hemmer style, it’s balanced by newer tableware for a contemporary yet inviting feel.
Martha Stewart’s property portfolio is pretty impressive, but her Fifth Avenue apartment is my favorite. It’s the ultimate balance of old and new that serves as a reminder of transitional style at its very best.
While every room is iconic (the cozy yet elevated home office will forever remain with me), I can’t take my eyes off Martha’s metal galley kitchen.
Featuring stainless steel counters, cabinets, and appliances, it proves that even the most industrial style spaces can feel timeless and classic, even decades later. Balanced by Giallo Siena marble floors, the room feels contemporary but equally grand, proving that mixing even the most contrasting styles is possible with the right color palette and styling.
Catherine Jacob’s, Head of Design at Hovia, explains, ‘I think Martha’s apartment really does capture that classic 1990s vibe in a surprisingly chic way. The light wood tones, the simple lines, and those cool silver finishes all feel very true to the decade. Even the marble-style flooring fits right in with what was popular back then. It has that soft, neutral palette and understated coziness that defined ’90s interiors, but it doesn’t feel dated or heavy.’
Let’s not forget the living room either. Featuring the same marble throughout, the space is minimally designed but deeply accomplished.
The simple set-up of a vintage wooden screen and a chrome floor lamp feels considered yet effortless, alongside the charming chrome bench and matching armchair.
Even her dining table is iconic. While some might shy away from mixing a rather traditional walnut wood with the striking chrome, Martha shows authenticity with her eating set-up. The antique table is decorated with metal plates, cutlery, and vases, proving that with a keen eye and clever styling, even the newest pieces can pair alongside the oldest.
Martha’s Fifth Avenue apartment is a walking time capsule – in the best way possible. It’s the archetypal 1990 interior that features all the popular trends of the time, but with the added Martha touches, it’s a lesson in mixing old and new and staying true to yourself.
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