Retro-Style Kitchens Are Back—And We Couldn't Be Happier About It

For those who have taken a moment to flip through the recent issues of VERANDA, you might notice mid-century elements making a comeback. Vintage pieces and styles are back with a vengeance, particularly when it comes to kitchen design. However, this time 1950s inspired pieces are taking a subtle, refined turn, serving up more sophistication than the galleys of yesteryear.

For example, some designers are nodding to nostalgia with vintage-inspired fixtures (think: farmhouse sinks or bin-pull hardware) and space-age influenced overhead lighting, while others are selecting smaller accents such as retro-inspired “tiled” wallpaper. More subtle still are those simply opting to coat the walls and cabinetry in throwback pastels like sky blue or pistachio green.

Keep reading to see how some of our favorite designers have incorporated the timeless look in some of their designs.

Fall in Love with Lucite

Lucite adds a layer of charm to this stunning Birmingham cottage designed by Hundley Hilton Interiors.

Nothing quite says mid-century modern quite like lucite. The acrylic plastic resin adds a unique element to a dining or kitchen space as the transparent material allows for pieces of furniture, like a barstool, to meld into its surroundings while still holding a certain note of modernism.

Incorporate the look into your space by using lucite curtain rods, bar stools, or a bar cart to make your kitchen feel ever so mod.

Add a Dose of Nostalgic Color

This 1950s home designed by Mark D. Sikes is full of nostalgia, from the overhead lighting to the wallpaper, but the true star is the timeless blue he used to cover the kitchen.

There’s nothing like a cornflower blue, minty green, or buttery yellow kitchen to bring us back to the days of sock hops and poodle skirts. Brightly painted cabinets make for a beautiful, cohesive kitchen, particularly if you choose easy colors that feel sunny and welcoming.

You can also go wild and select appliances in cheerful pastels to really add to that true 1950s flair, as during that time stainless steel was left to industrial kitchens and automats.

Incorporate Geometric Light Fixtures

From the blue and white tile to the gingham shade, everything about this kitchen designed by Mark D. Sikes exudes a preppy flair, even the geometric lighting over the island.

We just don’t do overhead lighting quite light we used to. Vintage fixtures are becoming staples in contemporary rooms, and we couldn’t be happier about it. Even in new lighting designs, antique and vintage items are often referenced. Unique lighting makes an especially a strong statement above a kitchen island. Opting for a fixture with a matte finish is a smart way to add dimension and give your kitchen a bit of 1950s flair.

Showcase Your Collections

Plate walls and cabinet details are too sweet not to celebrate in this Mark D. Sikes designed kitchen.

A well-curated cabinet full of treasured plates and dishes can be just as meaningful and stylish as a well-set tablescape. Making your cabinets more beautiful with thoughtful cabinet liners and collected dishware will make everyday tasks like tidying the kitchen more joyful. Whether you collect milk glass or vintage Pyrex, showing them off will bring a storied touch that everyone will love.

Bring Back the Banquette

Red, white, and totally retro is the feeling we get in this Manhattan kitchen designed by Celerie Kemble.

There’s nothing quite as tried or true as a breakfast banquette, and we are determined for them to make a return. Just picture enjoying this space on a quiet morning with a cup of coffee in hand. Does it get any better than that? We sure don’t think so.

Play with pattern, color and skirting with your banquette choice to make it a whimsical, yet special place in your home.