Thirty Years On, Martha Stewart's Fifth Avenue Apartment Continues to Stand Proud – It Teaches Us the Power of Forward-Thinking, Authentic Design

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.

Featuring all the classic 1990s trends (stainless steel cabinetry, chrome cookware, and plenty of oak), the home has never looked chicer, even today. It proves that 1990s interiors might feel like a time capsule, but that's not to say they lack timelessness.

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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.

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.