Vintage kitchen look


Vintage kitchen ideas: 12 designs for character and charm |

(Image credit: Future)

Vintage kitchen ideas are in high-demand at the moment, and for good reason. Introducing vintage kitchen elements instantly imbues your space with a sense of personality that is impossible to replicate in off-the-shelf kitchen design. 

Of course, when it comes to kitchen ideas of any kind, there are plenty of things to consider, from cabinetry and storage, flooring and countertops right through to window dressings and soft furnishings. 

All of these vintage kitchen elements offer the opportunity to add a vintage flair to your kitchen. 

Vintage kitchen ideas

Vintage kitchen ideas combine the beauty of the past with the practicality of the present day. There are several ways to achieve this look, from introducing reclaimed freestanding furniture alongside your built-in cabinetry, through to accessorizing your traditional kitchen ideas with open-shelving displaying fleamarket finds.  

Vintage kitchen design requires a curated approach. A vital step to achieving the look ‘is realizing that style is about longevity, careful, wise choices, and time, soul and patience to see things evolving,’ says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL .

Vintage kitchen design has seen a resurgence in recent years, not only for its charming aesthetic but also as a highly sustainable way to furnish your home. 

‘Buying pre-loved is crucially a more ethical way to buy, especially at a time when mass consumption is costing us the earth and driving small businesses under,’ says Period Living magazine's antiques expert Alice Roberton. 'An increased awareness of sustainability and production has fueled this decision and while people often come to vintage from a sustainable standpoint, they stay for the instantaneous burst of character that antique and reclaimed furniture and accessories bring into their home.'

Below, you'll find our favorite vintage kitchen ideas.

1. Use vintage kitchen accessories to give your space heritage flair

(Image credit: Devol)

A key tenant of vintage kitchen ideas is accessorizing. Keep the essential elements classic in style, understated Shaker cabinetry, fluted butler’s sink and aged brass hardware all work together to create an elegant backdrop against which your vintage finds can really shine. Here, a vintage cabinet, wallhanging, lace curtains and decorative details all work together to imbue this space with vintage charm.

‘Buy unusual pieces, try putting things in your kitchen that might be traditionally suited to a living room, or even your grandma’s home,’ suggests Helen Parker, ‘Mix up old with new and always try to source authentic and well-made pieces.’

2. Add floral wallpaper for a pretty hint of pattern

(Image credit: Sanderson)

While wallpaper might not seem like the natural choice for a kitchen, the right design can totally transform your space. There are plenty of country wallpaper ideas for kitchens that will give your room a splash of color and pattern. 

While such a bold print, like this heritage-inspired blooming teal Hykenham wallpaper from Sanderson , might seem overwhelming on the roll, the key to success is balance. The built-in cabinetry, window and floor-to-ceiling dresser all visually divide the space, providing a pared-back and elegant foil to the floral print. At the same time, the rich tones and floral motifs bring warmth, adding personality to the minimalist design. 

If wallpapering your kitchen, be sure to install an upstand attached to your countertop which will keep any spills off your walls. Marble makes for a luxurious finishing touch, though there are lots of kitchen countertop ideas that can also look great.

3. Repurpose antique furniture to create vintage kitchen cabinets

(Image credit: British Standard by Plain English)

The beauty of creating a vintage kitchen is that you are not restricted by the parameters of contemporary kitchen design. In this kitchen, a vintage shop counter serves as additional workspace, bringing creativity and charm in equal measure, and is perfectly complemented by the cream and wooden tones of the British Standard by Plain English cabinetry. 

The lived-in aesthetic is further enhanced by the generous farmhouse table and chairs, a mainstay of any vintage kitchen design as it doubles as both a dining space and preparation area – acting in the same way kitchen islands do in modern kitchens. 

4. Illuminate your vintage kitchen with reclaimed lighting

(Image credit: Lexi Ribar/Design Midland Architecture)

Kitchen lighting ideas are a key factor when designing a vintage kitchen.

A blend of wall lights that offer downward task lighting, and pretty pendants that provide broader illumination is the most efficient way to achieve this. T

here are lots of different vintage lighting designs available that will imbue your home with a heritage feel, however, if buying an antique, be sure to do so from a reputable company that restores reclaimed lights to modern day safety requirements. Skinflint , who provided the vintage Czech pendant light above the sink in this Midland Architecture kitchen design, is one such company. 

5. Mix freestanding furniture with modern cabinetry to for a sophisticated vintage look 

(Image credit: Neptune)

When curating your vintage kitchen, think about the tonality of materials. With solid floors and lots of cabinetry, the kitchen can feel quite cold, the antithesis of the welcoming ambience that a vintage scheme seeks to provide – which is where freestanding kitchens come in. 

‘Matching dark antique woods with light cabinetry is a great way to add depth to your kitchen color scheme, whereby those warm, richer accents contrast against cool neutral tones,’ advises George Miller, home designer at Neptune ‘A great example would be including an old vintage dresser or larder cabinet in a modern kitchen. This will create a stylish contemporary feel that draws on traditional country kitchen ideas.'

6. Use heritage-inspired fabric to bring warmth and character to your space

(Image credit: Future/David Brittain)

Vintage kitchen ideas go hand in hand with cottage kitchen ideas and it's not surprise; both styles seek to embrace historical designs and evoke a cozy and welcoming ambience.

Chintzy florals are one of the defining features of both looks, however, they must be used wisely. Here, this neat roman blind offers a stylish take on the tradition adding rustic charm and color to this scheme. Coupled with a pared-back linen ticking curtain on the cupboard underneath, it works to give the kitchen a softer look than a block-patterned blind and traditional cabinetry doors would achieve. 

7. Opt for a soothing sage palette to add a relaxing touch to other vintage kitchen ideas

(Image credit: Sandberg)

Creating a modern vintage look is all about balancing vintage kitchen ideas with newer details. Sleek, sage green cabinetry with a marble splash-back  and chrome hardware wouldn't look out of place in a more contemporary setting, however, when combined with a reclaimed wooden workspaces, along with the shiplap ceiling and aged wooden floor, they take on a more vintage look. 

‘An easy way to add vintage flair to your kitchen is adding an old butcher’s block,’ advise Jen and Mar, co-founders of Interior Fox , ‘Pair this with walls or shelves painted in a sage green or dusty champagne color which look lovely against wooden bowls or ceramic dishes. Display fresh herbs, greenery, mis-matched dishes and plant pots to help add a vintage charm to your kitchen'.

8.  Add warmth to your vintage kitchen ideas with a terracotta floor

(Image credit: Floors of Stone)

Kitchen flooring ideas for vintage kitchens need to have a touch of pre-loved heritage about them. Having been used as a floor covering for centuries, terracotta brings with it a rich color and warmth that is the perfect complement to other vintage kitchen ideas. Evoking old-world Mediterranean style, these tiles are crafted from clay and full of unique character. Opt for pieces that have hand finished edges as this will give them a slightly aged appearance. 

It's worth noting, however, that unfinished terracotta is very porous meaning it is vital that it is sealed before use in the kitchen. Select pre-sealed tiles or protect with an impregnating seal to ensure a hardwearing finish that is resistant to the inevitable staining and spills. 

9.

Create a vintage inspired backsplash with handmade tiles

(Image credit: deVOL)

Backsplash ideas for kitchens present the opportunity to add a subtle hint of character into your kitchen. While you may dream about decorating your kitchen with authentic antique tiles, the reality is that sourcing them is often time-consuming and costly. Thankfully, there are lots of nostalgic designs that are sure to give your kitchen a hint of history. 

These tiles from deVOL are made using its antique press, the clay forms are imprinted using vintage lace remnants and garments to unveil gorgeous reliefs of repeating patterns and trims. Available in three colors – Vintage Teal, Rose and Sepia – the tiles have been finished to replicate the delicately worn look of antique designs.

10. Create a welcoming heart to your home with a round table and lots of chairs

(Image credit: Susie Watson Designs)

Vintage kitchen ideas all aim to create a space that is warm and welcoming. A large table with plenty of chairs dressed with cushions is a great way to achieve this. 

‘You want to create the impression that a room has evolved over time by mixing and matching fabrics, furnishings and tableware. This gives the impression of a collection built up over time rather than instantly created,’ suggests Rachel Rose,  head of interior design at Susie Watson Designs . ‘Also take into consideration the paint color chosen, a light shade with undertones of green is a great backdrop to compliment lots of pattern in the fabrics, it's neutral but warmer than any shade of white.’

11. No vintage kitchens are complete without a range

(Image credit: Future/Polly Eltes)

A range cooker is an essential part of any vintage kitchen ideas and therefore must harmonise with the rest of the design. For the most part, vintage appliances are best avoided as they will be inefficient and potentially dangerous. Instead, you have two choices. 

First, consider a restored cooker, that has a vintage exterior but with modern electrics and safety certifications. These are likely to be cheaper than buying new and will imbue your home with that signature vintage look. 

The other option is to purchase a new design that has a heritage inspired design. There are lots of range cookers available that have the signature enamelled exterior and covered hot-plates and are undeniably vintage.

(Image credit: Future/Kasia Fiszer)

Once a mainstay of traditional kitchen design, pantries fell out of favor in the 1960s following the invention of the refrigerator/freezer and the desire for spacious kitchens. However, there has been a recent resurgence in pantry ideas being reintroduced into kitchens, particularly as a vintage kitchen idea. There are several vintage kitchen ideas for incorporating a pantry depending on your tastes and the amount of space you have available.

A walk-in pantry is the dream. Build wall to wall shelves and dress with vintage tins, baskets and other retro finds. Why not add a printed curtain to add to the homely aesthetic while disguising the more practical tins and packages?

Alternatively, a generous free-standing dresser can serve the same purpose. Open-shelving at the top offers a space to display vintage treasures, while the cupboards beneath offer practical storage solutions. 

Whichever option you choose, be sure to research pantry organization ideas to keep your space looking sophisticated and channeling the vintage aesthetic.

What is vintage style kitchen?

A vintage style kitchen is one that combines the modern with the traditional. Think repurposed wooden furniture, floral fabrics and warming color palettes paired with classic, timeless cabinetry, brass hardware and butler's sink. If chosen correctly, vintage kitchen ideas are timeless and work in a wide variety of homes.

‘When designing a vintage kitchen, it's okay to embrace a little bit of kitsch but overall you want to keep it classically vintage. I advise my clients to not lean into the 'theme' of vintage but rather do a nod to vintage style.’ Jade Joyner, co-founder of interior's brand Metal + Petal .

How can I make my kitchen look vintage?

You can make your kitchen look vintage by incorporating antique pieces of furniture, fabric and chinaware into your kitchen design. Vintage style is characterised by evolution; celebrating the traditional against the backdrop of the present day. 

'One of the easiest ways to give your kitchen a vintage look is accessorizing your space with fun vintage finds such as old recycled glass bottles, vintage bread boards, and grain sack kitchen linens,' advises Jennifer Markowitz of JNR Designs , 'Also consider changing your cabinet hardware to a more traditional style, swapping in modern counter stools or chairs for vintage-inspired ones, changing any pendant light fixtures to antique ones you find at a salvage shop or that mimic the look of antique light fixtures.'

Having graduated with a first class degree in English Literature four years ago, Holly started her career as a features writer and sub-editor at Period Living magazine, Homes & Gardens' sister title. Working on Period Living brought with it insight into the complexities of owning and caring for period homes, from interior decorating through to choosing the right windows and the challenges of extending. This has led to a passion for traditional interiors, particularly the country-look. Writing for the Homes & Gardens website as a content editor, alongside regular features for Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors magazines, has enabled her to broaden her writing to incorporate her interests in gardening, wildlife and nature. 

13 Vintage Kitchen Ideas That Prove Modern Isn't Always Better

We'll be the first to admit that it's easy to get sucked into the "newer is better" mindset—especially when home trends move a mile a minute. But there's something about a well-styled vintage kitchen that never fails to hit the spot. Sure, the floors might not always meet the walls at right angles, and the cabinet doors might creak a little—but there's really no replacement for the character that comes with age.

Of course, that doesn't mean that vintage kitchens are always the easiest to actually, y'know, *cook* in. Before the days of six-seater islands and palatial ranges, kitchens were a little more. ..compact. But a few clever space-saving tricks, reconfigurations and redesigns can make even the most humble galley kitchen into a glamorous place to eat and entertain—without sacrificing the retro personality and peculiarities that made it compelling in the first place.

Click through to see the vintage-style kitchens that are feeding our inspiration frenzy right now.

01 of 13

 Rikki Snyder

Maximalism + retro style = an obsession-worthy kitchen we can't quit staring at. From the warm wood tones to the classic rock wall to the mint-green appliances, there's so much to love about this cozy and personality-packed space.

02 of 13

Erin Williamson

 

This 1950s A-frame stays true to its retro roots, showing off old-school tile, midcentury-inspired cabinet pulls, and of course, a stunning throwback-style fridge. We'd consider this to be the perfect marriage of vintage and modern.

03 of 13

 Design: Brady Tolbert for EHD, Photo: Tessa Neustadt

Cramped galley kitchens can be tough to makeover, but designer Brady Tolbert's kitchen transformation is nothing short of stunning. Peel-and-stick floor tiles, swapped-out hardware, and a few thoughtful investment pieces (hello, SMEG) make the space as glamorous as it is functional—a tall order for such a limited area.

04 of 13

 Black and Blooms

Rental kitchens can feel like a curse (we've all been there). But even a multitude of outdated kitchen sins can be covered up with clever styling, as this space from Black and Blooms shows. Her favorite styling trick? Plants—and plenty of them. By the kitchen sink, overflowing from the fridge, and in any spare space, greenery helps give the dated features a freshened-up look. Warm wood tones, like this prep surface, harmonize with those all-too-common orange-y wood cabinets seen in many an early-aughts home, giving the entire space a more intentional feel.

05 of 13

 Dazey Den

Ah, the transformative power of a fresh coat of paint. This Dazey Den kitchen feels on-trend and fun, but retains some vintage flair in the form of floor tiles. Even standard-issue cabinetry gets a new lease on life when it's hung against an unexpected wall color. We've said it before and we'll say it again: paint is the best transformational tool in your decorating arsenal.

06 of 13

Dreamy Whites Atelier

We'll admit it—we pretty much want to live inside Dreamy Whites Atelier's Insta feed. The mix of French influence, perfectly-imperfect architectural details, and of course, the titular dreamy whites of every possible shade make it irresistible. We'll be incorporating some of this essentially vintage flair into our next kitchen reno, for sure.

07 of 13

 Emily Everyday

Another rental kitchen renovation with style to spare, this space by Emily Everyday feels so light and sunkissed. A coat of bright white paint, some new knobs and sink hardware, and (of course) an Instagram-iconic rug breathe new life into this standard-issue space.

08 of 13

Amy Bartlam

We've never seen two-tone cabinetry look so chic. An oversized retro stained glass piece breathes new life into this stark white space (and ups its vintage-y cred, to boot). Next time we spot one of these stained glass pieces at the thrift store or flea market, we're scooping it up.

09 of 13

 Royal Roulotte

A masterclass in how to achieve tons of character in a small space, this minuscule kitchen delivers functionality and a lot of flair. The breakfast bar's unique mix of reclaimed wood grounds the space in the past, but the unexpected addition of this cool DIY-esque plywood shelving makes it feel contemporary—and, if we're honest, a little rebellious, in the best way.

10 of 13

 Reena Sotropa

Would you believe that this home is brand new? We would've expected to find a setup like this in a sprawling French chateau, but it's actually a new build designed to look vintage (talk about a trompe l'oeil). The stunning range and grey-washed cabinetry are swoon-worthy, and we like the contrast created by the sleek brass light fixtures.

11 of 13

Rikki Snyder

Color us obsessed with this charming two-tone kitchen. A simple coat of paint—black on the lowers; white on the uppers—inserts a graphic element into an otherwise unassuming space, while white beadboard and an eclectic mix of black storage pieces dial up the contrast. We also love how this space showcases a smart way to make small kitchens more functional.

12 of 13

 Studio McGee

Landing a house with its own brick oven has to be one of the greatest feelings of all time. (Imagine the incredible pizzas you could make.) This stunning kitchen designed by The Fox Group provides a gorgeous backdrop for McGee & Co's internationally sourced artisan line, which makes perfect sense considering the space itself is a deft mix of materials from different sources.

13 of 13

 Jersey Ice Cream Co

Don't overthink it—this simple cottage kitchen has everything it needs, and it's a minimalist's dream with a decidedly vintage vibe. The colorblocked walls add a modern touch that unites the space but also adds a lot of visual interest (there's wall paint being an MVP again). Warm butcher-block countertops and a hardy standalone sink lend a rustic feeling that's cozy and inviting. We can just imagine whipping up a batch of pancakes on a snowy morning here.

design ideas, planning tips, photos Quoting vintage interiors has been a major design trend for the past few years. Tired of emotional hi-tech or a rough loft, more and more owners of city apartments and cottages are striving to bring an atmosphere of comfort, tranquility and unhurriedness into their home. And vintage-style kitchens do an excellent job with these tasks.

Style rules

Vintage is a whole design philosophy. It is not enough to simply duplicate the basic color palette and choose antique-style furniture from the catalog. It is very important to feel the interior - your kitchen should turn out to be sincere, where all interior objects look harmonious.

7 golden rules for a vintage style kitchen:

Rule 1. Deliberate luxury is out of place in such an interior - it is more typical for Empire, Baroque and other classical styles. Vintage implies elegance, restraint.

Rule 2. Symmetrical layout must be visible in any area of ​​the kitchen. This is the placement of lamps in pairs on the walls or near the working area, chairs strictly set around the perimeter in the dining area, the same number of cabinets on both sides of the stove.

Rule 3. Maximum waiver of artificial materials. If you cannot afford a solid wood kitchen set, then give preference to veneered furniture. You can even order plastic furniture, but always with a matte surface and with an imitation of the texture of natural materials (wood grain, stone).

Rule 4. Preference is given to light colors as close to natural as possible.

Basic colors:

Rule 5. To make the effect of an aged kitchen look as realistic as possible, glossy surfaces should be abandoned. And this applies to almost any object - lighting, furniture, decor, appliances.

Rule 6. Introduce handmade items into the interior. Let it be rough shapes and surfaces, but they also give the necessary stylistic chic. It can be massive ceramic dishes, carved photo frames, forged sconces. It is very appropriate to find little things with a history that are not factory copies, but real centenarians: an old grandmother's teapot, a wooden tray for serving food, family cutlery.

Rule 7. Emphasis on original techniques. Vintage objects give out special ways of processing materials. This is artistic forging, wood carving, active use of patination techniques.

Typical errors

In this style, it is very important to place the right accents. You can’t overdo it with an abundance of vintage items - otherwise it will already be boho-chic.

What are the most common mistakes:


Choice of household appliances

The main difficulty is to harmoniously combine modern household appliances with aged decor elements and furniture. The most correct decision would be the selection of stylized equipment, which has already been designed by the manufacturer in the spirit of bygone eras.

A few good examples:

Any technique is a tribute to comfort and the main assistants in the kitchen. And if you can’t pick up all the models in a pronounced style, then you can resort to a popular design technique. Under small household appliances, you can organize a separate wall niche or storage space under the sink space. But do not close them tightly with familiar doors. Hang neat curtains or wooden screens with handles.

Finishes

When equipping the kitchen, you must clearly understand the ideas of which era you will borrow. Based on this, and choose the appropriate finishing materials and forms of furniture. It can be said for sure that there is no place for modern solutions in the vintage space: plasterboard structures, stretch ceilings, linoleum and laminate flooring.

The most successful and popular materials for wall decoration are wallpapers. Considering that they will be glued in the kitchen, it is better to give preference to vinyl options. They are practical, washable, imitate many textures. Such wallpapers are easy to pick up with a pattern in the spirit of a particular era - with a small floral print, newspaper or poster design, geometric shapes. Wooden wall panels are also a universal option.

The kitchen apron is laid out with ceramic tiles. It must be restrained colors, without ethnic motifs and zooprints. Tiles with simple geometry are well suited: black and white combination, rhombuses, imitation of natural stone, light aged brickwork.

Only natural material is laid on the floor - porcelain stoneware or wood parquet. It is desirable that he repeat the familiar old motif: pine laying or visible traces of knots, imitation of cracks.

The ceiling is finished in the simplest possible way - painting or textured plaster. Wooden ceiling beams will look spectacular.

Vintage furniture

For the style of the general style, furniture is selected in a single historical vein. You can not interfere, for example, Soviet buffets and Viennese chairs. The interior can be easily borrowed by looking at photographs of houses in the distant 30s or 50s. Vintage furniture doesn't have to be frilly. In this case, maximum simplicity is the main secret. It is important to repeat the authenticity of the era, borrowing shapes and special color combinations, types of upholstered furniture screeds, finishing features of kitchen facades.

Massive wooden chairs with a carriage tie are perfect for the dining area. Chairs decorated with fabric covers look elegant.


Fabrics and decorations

Vintage space implies a cozy atmosphere, so the kitchen should have a lot of space for different options for interior textiles. These can be soft pillows in the sofa area, textile capes on chairs, cute window curtains, themed hand towels, fabric napkins on furniture shelves, a tablecloth on the table. Fabric curtains are appropriate to use in cupboards and chests of drawers of open type. Curtains perform the function of doors that are not deliberately set.

Decor should be subject to practicality. In such a kitchen there is no place for trinkets - each item fulfills its purpose. But any vintage items are traditionally aesthetically pleasing. For example, baking is not put on a regular plate. The kitchen should have a stylized tray or wicker basket for bread. Cutlery is served in such containers when setting the table.

Old family photos in black and white or pastel colors will already be a good decor option that you can do yourself.


Examples of finished interiors

We offer a photo selection of finished interiors in vintage style. Photos of beautiful kitchens will help you look for good solutions.


12 vintage style kitchen designs. How to give the kitchen character and charm of the old

The vintage style of kitchen design is always in demand, because the use of vintage elements in the design helps to endow the room with individuality.

Of course, when it comes to developing an interior project, there are many details that need to be considered, from floor and wall finishes to cabinets, tables and other pieces of furniture. Each vintage element contributes to the overall image of the kitchen.

In a vintage-inspired kitchen, the beauty of the past is easily combined with modern practicality. There are several ways to achieve a vintage look. The most common is the use of individual pieces of antique furniture and decor elements from a flea market.

Designing a vintage-style kitchen requires an individual, balanced approach. You need to understand that the design of the kitchen is done for years, so you need to carefully consider every detail. It takes a sense of style as well as time and patience, says Helen Parker , creative director at deVOL .

In recent years, vintage design has experienced a resurgence, not only because of its charming aesthetic, but also because it is a fairly sustainable way of decorating an interior.

Buying used items is a more ethical way of consuming material goods, says Alice Roberton , antiques expert at Period Living . Increased environmental awareness is pushing people to buy vintage items, but this decision is also reinforced by the beauty and personality of antiques, particularly vintage furniture and accessories.

Here are a few vintage style kitchen projects that we particularly liked:

1. VINTAGE ACCESSORIES TO CREATE AN OLD HOME ATMOSPHERE

The key to vintage style kitchens is the use of accessories. The main elements can be designed in a classic style. A deep sink with a wavy front, an aged brass faucet and fittings, cabinets - together they create an elegant backdrop for vintage accessories.

In this project, an antique vanity unit, wall hanging, lace window tulle and other decorative details add vintage charm to the kitchen.

Pay attention to unusual objects. Try to use things in the interior of the kitchen that could be found in your grandmother's kitchen, recommends Helen Parker. - Mix old with new. Always try to purchase authentic and solid products.

2. FLOWER WALLPAPER WITH A BEAUTIFUL PATTERN

Although it is widely believed that wallpaper is not quite suitable for the kitchen, if done right, it can completely transform the look of a space. There are many wallpaper designs (for example, country style) that will bring bright color and cute patterns to the interior.

While such a bold antique wallpaper print may seem too bright, the key to success is a carefully balanced balance. Floor-to-ceiling cabinets, a window and a chest of drawers visually divide the space, subtly and elegantly shading the bright pattern. At the same time, rich colors and floral motifs give the room warmth and comfort, emphasizing the individuality of the design.

If you're wallpapering your kitchen, be sure to install a ledge along the countertop to prevent spills and splashes from hitting the walls. By the way, marble countertops look great in this project, acting as a luxurious finishing touch (although, of course, the choice can be made in favor of countertops made of some other material).

3. ANTIQUE FURNITURE FOR VINTAGE STYLE

In this kitchen, vintage base cabinets (right) provide additional workspace. They are seamlessly complemented by modern standard cabinets in a similar color scheme and reflect a creative approach to design, bringing a special charm to the room.

The aesthetic of the lived-in space is further enhanced by antique chairs and a wide table, which is a key item in a vintage style kitchen. The table not only plays the role of a place for eating, but also serves as a zone for its preparation (similar to the "kitchen island" in a modern kitchen).

4. VINTAGE LUMINAIRES

The choice of luminaires is also important for vintage style design.


- Evolution Marble Backsplash Matte by Marazzi (Italy)

The combination of downlighting wall lights and elegant pendant lights that provide more diffused light is the most efficient way to organize kitchen space lighting.

There are many modern lamps on the market with a vintage look. They will help to give your home the atmosphere of an old house.

5. COMBINATION OF FREE-STANDING ANTIQUE FURNITURE WITH MODERN CABINET

When designing a kitchen, remember the color tone of the materials used. The vintage color scheme helps give the room a warm vibe.

If your kitchen has plain cold surfaces, freestanding pieces of antique furniture in warm shades will help to balance them.

Pairing dark woods, often used in antique furniture, with light modern cabinetry is a great way to add depth to a color palette: warm, rich accents stand out against cool/neutrals, notes George Miller , designer of Neptune .

In this example we see the use of a vintage cabinet and cabinet in a modern kitchen. This helps to create an atmosphere reminiscent of traditional or country style decor.

6. VINTAGE FABRICS FOR COZY AND PERSONALITY IN THE KITCHEN

Vintage style is very similar to country house decor, and it's no wonder: they are designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and in addition, design is used in both styles semi-antique (or characteristic of some historical period).

Floral patterns on the fabric are one of the characteristic features of both styles, but such patterns must be used with skill.

This project uses a neat roman shade to create a vintage feel, bringing rustic charm and color to the kitchen. Together with a rough linen curtain under the sink, they soften the appearance of the kitchen, making the room more comfortable (than using, say, curtains with a strict pattern and with the usual cabinet doors under the sink).

7. SOOTHING GRAY GREEN

For a contemporary interior with a vintage vibe, gray green cabinetry is the perfect choice. A marble apron and chrome fittings will look appropriate.

If you're looking for a more vintage look, consider recycled wood work area, boarded ceiling and aged wood flooring.

One of the easiest ways to give your kitchen a vintage touch is to install an old cutting table in it, they advise Jen and Mar , co-founders of Interior Fox . – Also, paint the walls or shelves grey-green, they will be a great backdrop for wooden bowls or ceramic dishes. Use fresh herbs, plant pots and assorted plates in the interior.

8. TERRACOTA FLOOR

Vintage style has a vintage feel. Terracotta tiles, which have been used as flooring for centuries, not only help to create a warm and cozy atmosphere, but also bring rich color to the interior. This pure fired clay tile evokes traditional Mediterranean style. Pay attention to tiles with hand-finished edges - this type of processing will give the flooring a slightly aged look.

However, it is worth noting that untreated terracotta tiles are very porous, so they must be treated with a special coating. You can also purchase pre-treated tiles that are resistant to stains and liquid spills that inevitably happen in the kitchen.

9. VINTAGE-STYLE APRON WITH HANDMADE TILE

A vintage-style splashback gives the kitchen a personal touch. Many probably dream of decorating an apron with real antique tiles, but it is not so easy to find it, and it is not cheap at all. But the good news is that there is a wide range of antique design tiles on the market.


— Ocean collection with vintage style craquelure by ADEX (Spain)

The teal tile presented in this project was made using an antique press. The molds use bits of vintage lace and fabric to create a charming embossed surface that repeats from tile to tile.

10. CREATE A COZY ATMOSPHERE WITH A ROUND TABLE AND CHAIRS

Vintage design aims to create a warm and inviting space. A large round table and chairs with comfortable cushions will help achieve this goal.

Try to evoke the feeling that the design of the kitchen took place gradually: the decoration of the room should give the impression of a collection that has been collected with love for many years. Mix and match different fabrics and materials, furniture and utensils, advises Rachel Rose , head of interior design at Susie Watson Designs . - Also pay attention to the color of the paint: a light greenish tone will be an excellent background for fabrics with patterns, besides, it is warmer than any shade of white used in the kitchen.

11. LARGE STOVE

The stove is an integral part of any kitchen and must therefore be in harmony with the rest of the design. But old stoves should not be purchased, as they are ineffective and even potentially dangerous.


— Cinqueterre apron boar tile by Mainzu (Spain)

Instead, look for modern models whose appearance is inspired by a certain historical period. On the market, for example, there are many slabs with enamelled exterior finishes that are great for embodying a vintage style.

12. ANTIQUE STORY COMPARTMENT

Until the widespread use of refrigerators in the 1960s, the pantry was one of the main structural elements of the kitchen space. Recently, however, pantries have become popular again, which is especially true for vintage-style kitchens. There are several ways to arrange a pantry compartment - they depend on your preferences and the available space.

A large storage compartment inside the kitchen is just a dream of every housewife! Install shelves in it the entire width of the wall. For a more vintage vibe, one of the shelves can hold a few cans and other retro-inspired items, while the regular groceries can be covered with a printed curtain. Such a curtain will make the kitchen look more comfortable.

Alternatively, use a freestanding sideboard or sideboard, for example, with open top shelves for vintage items and closed cabinets below for practical storage.

WHAT IS A VINTAGE STYLE KITCHEN?

Vintage style celebrates tradition against the backdrop of modernity, so a vintage style kitchen is a kitchen that combines modern with traditional. The vintage style is characterized by a warm color palette. Old wooden furniture, floral fabrics, deep square ceramic sinks and brass hardware are commonly used to give a kitchen a vintage look. Such a kitchen will look organic in many homes.

When designing a kitchen, in principle, you can add a little bit of kitsch, but in general, you should strive for a classic vintage style. In my opinion, it is important not to overdo it, to keep the measure. I even advise my clients to just sort of give a hint of vintage style,” says Jade Joyner , co-founder of Metal + Petal interior design company.


Learn more