7 ’50s Inspired Kitchen Trends That Have Stood the Test of Time

Whether you consider yourself an old soul or you’re a big fan of a retro aesthetic, you may be looking to incorporate some vintage design elements into your kitchen. From bold checkerboard flooring and colored kitchen appliances to chrome detailing and tile countertops, there are a variety of different kitchen remodel ideas you can blend together to bring your vision to life. The best part about these ’50s inspired kitchen trends? When paired with modern design elements, you’ll create a timeless aesthetic that is both vintage and modern and will be envy-worthy for many years to come.

If you’re looking to recreate a timeless, retro-inspired kitchen, look no further than these seven trends as you create your kitchen remodel mood board.

Colorful Appliances

A standout feature of any retro kitchen is colored appliances — and red is one of the most popular options! The retro-chic refrigerator and oven pair beautifully with a variety of kitchen aesthetics. If you’re going full-vintage, then colorful appliances are a must. But if you’re looking to add a touch of the 1950s to your otherwise modern kitchen, it’s the perfect way to nod to this trendy look.

Vibrant Color Palette

One of the best parts of ’50s inspired kitchens is the color palettes! There is so much variety with what you can do. From black and white checkered flooring with pastel appliances to bold-colored cabinets, flooring, and walls, you can go all-in or add a bit of subtle flair that will elevate your retro look. This eclectic kitchen’s vibrant cabinet, countertop, and floor colors of blue and teal are perfectly accented by pops of yellow throughout the kitchen to liven up the space. No matter how daring you want to be with the color scheme, adding in any pops of color can help tie it back to the retro vibe you’re hoping to achieve. Not sure what color palette is right for you? Find out what your Myers-Briggs personality says about your kitchen style.

Chrome Detailing

In the 1950s, many households were transfixed on the idea of the future. With this futuristic mindset, they sought out ways to create a retro-futurism feel within the space — by using chrome detailing! Whether you want to incorporate chrome kitchen appliances into an otherwise vintage aesthetic or you’re planning to add chrome detailing to the backsplash, kitchen island, or cabinet hardware, the addition of metal in your space will help you mimic the style of that era.

A Breakfast Nook

It’s not a coincidence that diners often have a retro vibe that is reminiscent of the 1950s. Most kitchens also offered this same eat-in vibe you’d find in local diners, offering a breakfast nook where the family could gather for meals. A breakfast nook also allows you to make use of the space in the most efficient way possible and keeps those working in the kitchen engaged with what the family is doing. If you’re trying to recreate a retro kitchen in your home, you need to include a built-in eating nook where you can share a bit to eat or sip your morning coffee.

Checkered Floors

Close your eyes and picture a retro kitchen. What’s the first design element that always comes to mind? A checkered floor! Incorporating checkerboard flooring in your kitchen is a sure way to bring the vintage-inspired look to life. For a bold appearance, choose contrasting checked tiles in black and white. You can also opt for a more relaxed aesthetic by installing pastel checkered flooring, or you can be daring and go for multi-colored checkered flooring. Depending on your desired final look, there is a checker patterned tile perfect for the job.

Tile Countertops

The ’50s was a big fan of tile — tile flooring, tile backsplashes, and last but not least, tile countertops. As a step up from the white tile that was common in the 1940s, colorful tile was seen as a luxury in kitchens in the 1950s. The best part about tile is that you can choose to keep it a solid color palette in a straightforward pattern or you can choose a funky and eclectic pattern that suits your style. If you aren’t sure if a tile countertop is for you, you can pair a retro-inspired colorful tile backsplash with modern countertops for the perfect combination of old and new.

Collection Displays

No retro kitchen is complete with finding a way to display different knick-knacks on your shelves. In a typical 1950s kitchen, you would find various collections of figurines or kitchenware on open shelving — which is easy for you to incorporate into your space! From modern open shelving where you can showcase small kitchen tools to display cabinets housing your wine glasses or fine china, you’ll be able to show off some of your prized possessions and really make the room feel like it has your touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does retro style look like?

Retro can be used to describe any time period of the past, however, it most commonly relates to the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. This time period is known for incorporating electric patterns and bright or pastel colors while creating a fun and lively atmosphere.

What are the retro colors?

You’ll see a variety of colors in a retro kitchen, including a neutral color palette of beiges, yellows, browns, and creams. But these neutral tones are often paired with a pop of color from pastel blues, greens, and pinks to vibrant reds.

How do you make a modern kitchen look retro?

If you love certain elements of a vintage-inspired kitchen but prefer a modern aesthetic, there are a variety of ways you can incorporate the retro look into your design. Consider installing a tile backsplash reminiscent of the ’50s, featuring retro appliances in a fun color, or including a chrome kitchen island as a focal point in the room.

What makes a kitchen timeless?

When designing a kitchen, you want to piece together various design elements that will stand the test of time. Although many of the design elements we’ve discussed today are classified as “retro,” they could also be considered timeless because they have been included in kitchen designs for decades. A timeless kitchen is when the main elements of the space, including the floors, counters, and cabinets, won’t look outdated in the next ten years.