Introduction
Vintage design never goes out of style, which is evidenced beautifully in this week’s featured kitchen. Located in a Spanish style home in the heart of Hollywood, this kitchen incorporates vintage elements for a timeless and classic look. From the paneled appliances to the retro tile backsplash, this space is a charming blend of old and new.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at this vintage-inspired Hollywood kitchen. We will examine the key features that give this kitchen its retro charm, from the choice of materials to the color scheme. You’ll see how the homeowners blended modern amenities with vintage styling for a functional, yet nostalgic, cooking space. We’ll also provide tips on how you can get the vintage look in your own kitchen design.
So grab your saddle shoes and pour yourself a milkshake as we take a tour of this sweet vintage-style Hollywood kitchen!
Overview of the Vintage Kitchen
This kitchen is located in a restored Spanish-style home built in the 1920s. When remodeling the kitchen, the homeowners wanted to preserve the vintage character of the architecture. At the same time, they needed a cooking space that provided up-to-date functionality.
To achieve this balance, they chose design elements that tipped a hat to the retro style of the early to mid-20th century. Let’s take a look at some of the key features that give this kitchen its nostalgic flair:
Color Scheme
The color palette features classic hues like mint green, sunny yellow, and pops of cherry red. These cheery retro colors add a playful, optimistic vibe that immediately transports you back in time. The mint green used on the majority of the cabinetry is a vintage trend color that was popular in the 1940s/1950s.
Cabinetry
The cabinetry has a paneled look with understated hardware, achieving a timeless, built-in style. This contrasts nicely with the mint green paint for a professionally coordinated, retro kitchen.
Flooring
Black and white checkerboard tile flooring gives this kitchen a 1950s diner feel. This dramatic floor makes a bold statement and acts as the focal point of the room.
Backsplash
A cherry red 4×4 inch tile backsplash provides a punchy pop of retro color. The repetitive squares have a geometric, midcentury vibe.
Appliances
While contemporary in function, the appliances have a retro look. The mint green refrigerator, gas range, and farmhouse sink all look like they could have come straight out of the 1950s.
Accessories
Vintage-inspired accessories like a yellow step stool, fruit crate, and canister set add to the old-fashioned kitchen charm.
Lighting
Large domed pendants act as a sculptural lighting feature that aligns with the vintage style. Their yellow color contrasts nicely against the mint cabinets.
Vintage Materials, Colors, and Patterns
Now that we’ve surveyed some of the main elements that achieve the vintage look in this kitchen, let’s break things down in more detail. We’ll start by looking at some of the most popular materials, color palettes, and patterns used in retro style kitchen design:
Common Vintage Materials
- Chrome/Stainless Steel – Refrigerators, oven hoods, and countertops (like Formica) with a shiny metallic look were popular midcentury. Stainless steel is still widely used today for a hint of retro.
- Enamel – Retro kitchens often featured glossy enamel finishes on cabinets and appliances. This could be in a solid color like mint green or cheerful solid patterns.
- Tile – Geometric tile as a backsplash or flooring was commonly used in vintage kitchens, like the checkerboard floor seen here. Subway tile and repeating square patterns were also prevalent.
- Formica – Formica laminate countertops were the standard from the 1930s-1960s. Their colorful, patterned look is iconic for retro kitchens.
- Hardware – Understated hardware like simple knobs and cup pulls achieve a clean, vintage look compared to more ornate options.
Midcentury Color Palettes
- Pastels – Soft pastel hues like mint green, pale yellow, baby blue, and pink dominated 1950s color trends and have a sweet retro vibe.
- Bold Primaries – Cherry red, sunshine yellow, turquoise, and grass green add pops of primary colors that were popular for retro appliances and accessories.
- Neutrals – Black, white, gray, and wood tones helped offset brightly colored walls and patterns. They prevented colors from becoming overwhelming.
Vintage Patterns
- Polka Dots
- Gingham/Checks
- Atomic/Starbursts
- Poodles/Poodle Skirts
- Geometric Squares
- Fruit/Florals
The 4×4 inch cherry red tile backsplash in this kitchen is a great example of a simple geometric pattern that has a distinctly retro look. The checkerboard floor also aligns with the vintage affinity for geometric designs.
Adding Functionality for a Modern Kitchen
While the vintage design elements transport us back in time, this kitchen also has all the functionality a cook could need today. The homeowners found creative ways to blend modern amenities with the retro styling.
Appliances
The refrigerator, slide-in range, and range hood are all contemporary appliances. However, their mint green color allows them to blend seamlessly into the vintage style. Stainless steel finishes would have clashed with the aesthetic.
Modified Layout
This kitchen likely originally had a closed floor plan with limited counter space. The new layout opens up the room and allows for smart functionality. There’s ample counter space, wide aisles, and high-end cooktop and cabinets.
Sink
A deep, stainless steel apron front sink provides updated performance while complementing the 1950s farmhouse style.
Lighting
Pendants and under cabinet lighting offer optimal illumination for food prep and cooking. Vintage kitchens often had dim lighting, so good lighting is a welcome modern upgrade.
Storage Solutions
While the cabinets maintain a retro look, they likely have customizable organizers inside for handy storage. Soft-close hinges also prevent slamming.
By focusing on big picture aesthetics, and then smartly incorporating modern elements, the homeowners created a vintage-inspired kitchen optimized for contemporary everyday use.
Tips for Achieving the Vintage Kitchen Look
If you love the nostalgic style of this Hollywood kitchen, there are relatively simple ways to infuse that retro charm into your own space. Let’s go over some top design tips:
Color Palette
As mentioned, pastels and bright primary colors epitomize the retro palette. Mint, lemon yellow, turquoise, and grass green are great go-tos. Use colors on your cabinets, walls, appliances, or backsplash.
Cabinet Updates
For a quick refresh, repaint your cabinets in a retro pastel hue. Replace modern hardware with simple knobs or pulls. Add molding for a paneled look.
Patterned Backsplash
An easy DIY upgrade is installing a vibrantly colored, geometric tile backsplash. Subway tiles also channel the retro spirit.
Flooring
For an eye-catching vintage floor, install black and white checkerboard tiles. Or opt for vintage-style vinyl flooring featuring bold geometric prints.
Accessories
Add 1950s-style touches like step stools, canisters, clocks, tableware, and appliances in pops of primary colors.
Lighting
Domed pendants, like those seen here, make a big statement. Sculptural sconces and geometric lampshade patterns also fit the vintage motif.
With strategic use of color, accessories, lighting, and patterns, you can give a standard modern kitchen a dose of retro charm. Focus on a few key elements based on your budget for a cost-effective vintage refresh.
Achieving an Elegant, Timeless Look
While midcentury design cues lend this kitchen its retro charm, the overall look remains tastefully elegant and timeless. What allows this space to feel updated rather than themed?
Quality Materials
The cabinets, tile, hardware, and appliances are all high-end. Their durability will prevent them from ever appearing cheap or “themey.” Timeless natural materials like wood and marble lend themselves to an elegant look.
Subtle Approach
Vintage elements are thoughtfully incorporated but don’t dominate every surface. This prevents the design from appearing over-the-top or distracting.
Streamlined Details
Clean lines, ample lighting, and sparse ornamentation give this kitchen a quiet sophistication. Busy patterns and frilly decor have been avoided.
No Vintage Clutter
You won’t find obvious 1950s kitsch like egg timers and tea towels strewn about. Keeping decor minimal and intentional retains the elegant vibe.
With its smart balance of vintage flair and subtle modern updates, this kitchen has an enviably chic and timeless feel that appeals across eras. The retro influence is unmistakable but executed elegantly.
Vintage Kitchen Inspiration and Ideas
Need a bit more vintage inspiration before revamping your own kitchen? Here are some additional examples of retro kitchen designs that seamlessly blend old and new:
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This kitchen features Elements, NYC Elias Construction, LLC, interior design by Kristine Drzal. Photo by Megan McCrea
What stands out in this vintage-inspired space?
- Paneled appliances and cabinetry
- Monochromatic color scheme in pastel blue
- Checkerboard floor
- Geometric backsplash tile
-Chrome accents - Sculptural pendant lighting
Photo by Historical Concepts
Design elements to note:
- Farmhouse sink
- Vintage-style hardware and lighting
- Reclaimed wood accents
- Hexagon tile backsplash
- Rounded refrigerator
Photo byElementType Home
Notice how this kitchen channels midcentury style:
- Pastel blue lower cabinets
- Wood paneled uppers
- Slim tiled backsplash
- Contrasting butcher block island
By pulling inspiration from multiple eras, these kitchens achieve an elegantly retro look that avoids appearing themed or gimmicky. Their timeless style will always remain on-trend.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vintage Kitchen Design
If you’re considering a vintage-inspired kitchen renovation, you may still have some questions. Below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about achieving the retro look.
Is a vintage kitchen expensive?
It doesn’t have to be! Small updates like new cabinet hardware, lighting, and decorative accessories can make a big visual impact without breaking the budget. For a more transformative renovation, set your priorities and vintage must-haves so splurging only where it has maximum payoff.
How do I choose a vintage color scheme?
Focus on pastel hues like mint, lemon, and lilac paired with bold primaries like cherry red, sunflower yellow, or grass green. Aim forcolors that were popular in the 1930s-50s. Keep walls light and use deeper shades sparingly for contrast.
Should my vintage kitchen have an open or closed floor plan?
It depends on your goal. An open floor plan will feel more current but close it off for a truly authentic retro feel. Consider an open shelving unit or passthrough window to loosely divide spaces if you prefer some separation.
What are the best materials for a vintage kitchen?
Natural materials like wood, marble, and metal read traditional and age well. For a budget-friendly retro look, laminates, enameled metal, vinyl flooring, and chrome accents are very effective. Tile and stainless steel also work nicely.
How do I decorate a vintage kitchen?
Use vintage-inspired accessories like a classic kitchen scale, wire shelving units, ceramic canisters, and tea towel racks. Add small kitchen appliances in retro colors. Floral curtains, tableware with vintage patterns, and a tablecloth or rug will complete the look.
Should I get reproduction appliances or restore originals?
If your home originally had vintage appliances, restoration may be worthwhile for authenticity. For most, good quality reproductions are the better choice for cost and functionality. Some companies like Big Chill make new appliances mimicking retro styles.
Conclusion
This charming vintage-inspired Hollywood kitchen demonstrates how you can blend classic and contemporary elements for a timeless, elegant look. By making smart selections with your materials, colors, layout, and decor details, it’s possible to achieve a nostalgic vibe that still feels fresh and current.
While some homeowners opt for an over-the-top retro theme, this thoughtful kitchen remains refined by pulling just enough inspiration from the 1930s-1950s to pay homage to the era. The muted color scheme, paneled cabinetry, geometric backsplash, and retro accessories work together to transport us back in time without going overboard.
As you consider a kitchen renovation or refresh, remember that vintage never fully goes out of favor. By skillfully mixing old and new, you can create a kitchen that always remains in style. This Hollywood kitchen gives us confidence that a thoughtfully designed vintage space will retain its charm and functionality for decades to come.
