Life in a student flat starts rough but gets colourful. The windows rattled in the wind, but we built it piece by piece. Flat-pack breaks too quick, so we grabbed second-hand. Another dragged a chair from Camden. Nothing matched the walls, but that’s what gave it soul. Funky retro seating has character, and couch and quirky armchair accent chairs students get that instinctively. I’ve balanced takeaway boxes on a mismatched chair, and every time it felt right.

Markets spill chairs onto the streets, and designers take inspiration from it. My flatmate dragged me into Smithers, and the vintage armchairs carried scars I loved. money was tight, but it’s the pride of the living room. Ask around and you’ll hear it. it’s where life happens. Accent unusual chairs don’t flinch when four people pile on. Mass production doesn’t care, but old sofas age into character. every stain means another night. Looking back after twelve months, you don’t remember the kettle, but you remember the sofa.

When you start student life, ignore the fake polish. Pick up a vintage armchair, and let it carry your student nights.