30 Stunning Vintage Kitchens That Prove Retro Never Goes Out Of Style

According to the 2024 Pinterest Predicts report, kitschens (a term for kitschy kitchens) are trending. 

The report writes, “They say the party always moves to the kitchen. But sometimes, the party is the kitchen. This year, Gen X and Boomers will quirk up their cooking areas with thrifted finds, vintage appliances and eye-jarring pops of paint. No minimalist aesthetic is safe.”

The term kitschy kitchen is a derivative of the German verb kitschen used to describe a work of art thrown together. This is exactly what such a cooking area is - a colorful and diverse space typically full of vintage assorted furniture and accessories. It’s a trend synonymous with all things retro, pulling at the heartstrings of nostalgic people.  

Providing us more insights into this trend, Sydney Stanback, global trends and insights lead for Pinterest, says, "People will elevate their kitchen designs and cooking areas with thrifted finds, vintage appliances and eye-jarring pops of paint as they are looking for 'eclectic kitchen decor,' 'kitschy kitchens,' 'retro pink kitchens' and more."

Interestingly, the pink retro kitchen search term has increased by 40%. "Pink provides that unique retro charm and is a hue that doesn't go out of style," says Mattia Salia, product manager at SMEG, famous for its vintage-looking kitchen appliances. "While playful, pink is also a unique and stylish choice for the kitchen, setting it apart from more traditional colors like white or beige."

Interior design consultant, stylist, and maximalism specialist Sophie Newlands tells Bored Panda, "I think modern, minimalist designs can sometimes lack soul and character, so many people will find inspiration in past eras. I love it when a client brings me a brief that allows me to delve into antiques. There’s something so magical about furniture that has been pre-loved and can bring a glimpse of the past into the modern home."

Besides its charming aesthetic, another reason why vintage kitchen design has seen a resurgence in popularity is its sustainability. “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 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,” she explained.

Even though they include vintage elements, most retro kitchens nowadays aren't identical to authentic ones back in the day. "The beauty of recreating vintage style in contemporary homes is that we are able to replicate an era while concealing more modern appliances, such as dishwashers. We can also be clever with our designs to give us enough storage space, as modern families need more space in the kitchen than in the 1960s," Sophie explained.

If you’re lost on where to start your transition into a vintage kitchen, don’t fret; interior designers have our back. The first step is identifying your perfect design aesthetic, as vintage can mean different things to different people. Perusing through showrooms, Pinterest, or your favorite antique thrift stores can give you a better idea of how you want your kitchen to look.

"Decide which era you are drawn to the most and start creating a Pinterest board of inspiration," says Sophie. "If you love traditional, farmhouse kitchens, then experiment with floral wallpaper and rustic-looking wood If you’re inspired by the '70s, then you could start by looking at some funky tiles and introducing some hanging plants."

Her top tip is, "Lots of interior designers offer digital consultations, so if you want to get some advice without spending a fortune, research some designers and find one whose work aligns with your style, then reach out to them!"

For those who aren't planning a big renovation, your vision can be achieved by adding vintage touches and various accessories to your cooking area. “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, creative director at deVOL. “Mix up old with new and always try to source authentic and well-made pieces.”

Adding wallpaper, an interesting backsplash, or brass accents can also transform your kitchen into a vintage one without putting too much labor into it. If you’re ready to put more elbow grease into your dream kitchen, swapping your cabinets and appliances for retro ones is also a great option. Repurposing antique furniture and appliances for this can add to the charm even more. Patterned fabrics like curtains, reclaimed vintage lighting, or checkered flooring are some additions that are worth considering as well.

I hope this list inspired you to fulfill your vintage dreams and got you to start designing your own kitchen! For even more ideas, make sure to check out our earlier publications featuring beautiful thrifted things and amazing old homes.