Distinctly retro furniture by Masquespacio

Colour combinations that have a distinctively retro feel to them.

If you are unfamiliar with Masquespacio, it is worth exploring their work. The Valencia-based studio creates interiors, furniture, and lighting that are bold and highly visual. As a result, their projects often attract attention across design media and social platforms.

At first glance, the work appears playful. However, beneath this surface is a clear and structured design approach. The studio combines colour, form, and material with strong intent. Because of this, each project feels both expressive and controlled.

The idea that each item should be attractive, elegant, and fun is central to Houtique’s goal, and they’ve succeeded so far. While the new Arco chair is a high-end tribute to the 1970s, with a gold-plated frame and lush velvet upholstery, it is a high-end tribute to the 1970s. The candy-coloured fringing suspended as enticing ‘eyelashes’ beneath the gold-plated almond-shaped ‘eye’ fitting on the brand’s wall and standing Wink lamps is charming in appearance.

Influences and Design Direction

When you look more closely, you begin to see the studio’s influences. For example, the bold graphics recall the Memphis Group. At the same time, there are echoes of Tropicalismo, with its vibrant colour and cultural energy.

In addition, Masquespacio works in collaboration with the Valencia-based brand Houtique. This partnership focuses on furniture and lighting collections. Together, they explore a shared vision of expressive and character-driven design.

Furthermore, creative direction plays a key role. Ana Milena Hernández Palacios and Christophe Penasse guide both the aesthetic and visual identity. As a result, the collections feel cohesive across different product types.

Playful Forms and Statement Pieces

Each piece is designed to be attractive, elegant, and fun. Because of this, the collection avoids restraint and instead embraces personality.

For instance, the Arco chair references 1970s furniture design. It features a gold-plated frame and soft velvet upholstery. At the same time, the Wink lamps introduce a more playful detail. Their fringe elements resemble eyelashes, adding movement and humour.

Similarly, the Mambo chair pushes this idea further. It combines multiple colours, soft textures, and decorative fringe. As a result, it feels closer to an art object than a standard chair.

A Reaction Against Minimalism

All three pieces act as strong statement designs. In contrast to minimalism, they celebrate decoration and visual richness. This shift is important, as many contemporary interiors still favour simplicity.

However, Masquespacio takes a different path. Instead of reducing form, the studio adds layers of meaning and texture. Consequently, their work feels more expressive and emotionally engaging.

As Christophe Penasse explains, the goal is not purely commercial. Rather, the intention is to introduce change, even if it is small. This philosophy gives the collection its distinctive character.

Movement, Rhythm, and Design Identity

The ChaCha stool reflects this approach clearly. It builds on the earlier Pill stool but adds movement through fringe. Because of this detail, the piece feels lively and almost animated.

Likewise, the Mambo chair continues this sense of rhythm. Its layered materials and bold structure create visual energy. Together, these pieces suggest a design language that is both dynamic and theatrical.

Looking ahead, the studio plans to expand its collaborations. By inviting other designers, they aim to grow the brand further. Therefore, future collections may introduce new interpretations while maintaining this expressive core.

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