It’s “shabby chic.” I think the phrase is primarily used for interior design, like the decor and furniture in a living room, kitchen, or bedroom. It doesn’t sound quite right for describing a quaint town square.

The adjective you're thinking of is "shabby chic." Explanation: "Shabby chic" refers to a style of decoration or design where old or worn-out objects (or their aesthetic) are reused or repurposed, often with a modern twist, giving them a trendy, stylish appeal. It can apply to furniture, interior design, and even fashion, but it is not typically used for buildings or areas. For buildings or areas: A more appropriate term might be "vintage-inspired", "retro-modern", or simply "revitalized." For towns or neighborhoods that maintain their historical charm while being updated for modern use, you could use: "revamped historical district" "modernized old town" "restored vintage charm" "heritage-inspired area" For example: "The old quarters of the town have been beautifully restored, maintaining their charm while incorporating modern functionality."

"Classic" would work, but I prefer Aviva's "retro". "Retro" works without the addition of "chic". "Shabby" is not a word to use unless you are certain that that is what you intend. "Shabby" is a distinctly negative word. Buildings and places can be retro while not being at all shabby. To call a place "shabby" is an insult, so use that word carefully. If you type into AI: "Please give me some specific businesses (not just types of businesses) that can be described as 'retro'", you will obtain a list of retro style businesses. If you like, you can narrow the search to businesses located near you. Most owners of those businesses would feel insulted if you called them "shabby".

I agree with the others: "shabby chic" is what you're thinking of. My sense is this term tends to be applied more to interiors (pieces of furniture, rooms, etc) than entire neighborhoods, although English is often pretty fluid on such things. For entire neighborhoods, you might want to go with something like "bohemian" or "boho" or even "gentrifying" (though be careful: 'gentrified' implies that the process is already complete). I've also seen "shabby-genteel" used to refer to districts or neighborhoods.

Hi Emar, Another possibility would be "retro chic." "Retro" means "back" or "behind," as in the word "retrospect" (in retrospect = looking back on something that has already happened). I agree with Mara that the best description for an old fashioned but charming town square would be "quaint."