41 Mid-Century Modern Kitchen Ideas for 2023

By: Andrew Saladino | 10 min

Are you looking to give your kitchen a Mid-Century Modern makeover? Well, you've come to the right place.

In this article, we'll give you some ideas on how to play with color to achieve that iconic Mid-Century Modern kitchen aesthetic, channel your inner Frank Lloyd Wright to bring the outdoors inside, and mix materials to build a timeless yet trendy kitchen that you'll love to use every day.

1. Play With Contrasting Materials

One of the most defining characteristics of Mid-Century Modern design is the use of contrasting materials.

When you're planning your remodel, consider using walnut Mid-Century Modern cabinets with stainless steel fixtures, or a butcher board countertop with a concrete backsplash.

2. Don't Be Afraid of Color

Not all Mid-Century design is neutral colors and wood furniture. It's OK to play with color. In fact, it's encouraged.

Some of the most iconic designs embrace bold color choices. Think mint cabinetry, a bright orange range, or a teal seashell tile backsplash.

3. Incorporate Plants and Flowers

Plants and flowers can help a Mid-Century kitchen feel alive.

Many Mid-Century designs rely heavily on wood, and there is no better complementing color than green. Not only can plants and flowers help complement the other colors in your design, but they can also help bring a little bit of the outside in.

4. Level up Your Herb Garden

Adding an herb garden to your kitchen is a practical way to keep fresh herbs around while giving your space a little more color. Have you ever tried purple basil? It's as delicious as it is beautiful.

Say goodbye to wilted herbs and say hello to a beautiful slice of nature with a well-placed herb garden.

5. Bring Some Light in With Skylights

Adding a skylight isn't an option for everyone, but if you can, it is a great way to bring some light into your kitchen.

A skylight can help brighten up a space with lots of dark wood or create a surprisingly warm though open-feeling space with lighter wood slab cabinets and white countertops.

6. Make Windows a Focal Point

Windows aren't just another great way to add natural light to your kitchen - they can also be a fantastic design element. Whether you've got massive floor-to-ceiling windows or a modest window over your sink, make them a focal point in your Mid-Century Modern kitchen.

You can do this by ditching the upper cabinets, keeping the counter space clean, or framing the window with wood.

7. Use Natural Materials

Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the most renowned Mid-Century Modern architects of all time once said, "Wood is the most humanly intimate of all materials."

And it's true. Wood carries a certain warmth and personality that is hard to beat.

Teak and walnut Mid-Century kitchen cabinets were wildly popular through the 1950s, and the trend has withstood the test of time.

Imagine a kitchen lined with beautiful teak cabinetry, a stone backsplash, and a carefully curated herb garden just below the window. It's sustainable, beautiful, and memorable.

8. Quartz Can Keep Your Counters Clean

Did you know that quartz countertops didn't even exist until 1963? It's true. And while that means quartz wasn't really part of authentic Mid-Century design, its popularity in modern mid-century-inspired designs is unmatched.

White quartz countertops create an open feel that emphasizes clean lines and helps accents truly pop.

9. Play With Patterns

Mid-century modern designs lean heavily on democratic aesthetics, meaning that the style of design has broad appeal. There's a lot of wood, clean lines, and neutral colors. That doesn't mean you can't add a little flair, however.

One way to add some expression to your kitchen design is to use bold patterns.

How would black-and-white checkered floors look in your space? Or a multi-colored geometric backsplash?

10. Colorize Your Cooking Accessories

Adding some color to your cooking accessories can be a great way to splash a little personality into your kitchen. Mid-Century design favors functionality over all else, but there's no rule saying you can't have a functional kitchen that looks amazing.

Display some colorful cups, or swap out your wooden spatula for a stainless steel one with a pink grip.

11. Go Minimal

Minimalism is a simple idea that can be fairly tough to pull off. It's all about reducing clutter without sacrificing personality.

To achieve this, try to keep your countertops free of knickknacks. See how you can hide your plugs. Consider concealing your appliances in your cabinetry.

12. Add Some Vintage Flair

Let's face it; it would be difficult to truly embody the Mid-Century Modern vibe without anything actually from the middle of the century. Sadly, this may be easier said than done.

Vintage appliances may not run as well as they used to or may not adhere to modern safety or environmental standards, and furniture may be way too expensive to justify. Fortunately for us, there are some alternatives in the form of replicas.

Furniture from iconic Mid-Century designers like Charles Eames can cost as much as $10,000 or more, but similar replicas found at Target or Wayfair may just set you back a couple hundred dollars.

13. Get Funky With Tile

Tile may well deserve a whole article itself. It's a vital piece of nearly every kitchen, and for good reason. It can add depth, color, and personality to a design. Whether you're looking for a subtle accent to keep the focus on other elements in your kitchen or a bright, bold, colorful statement piece, tile is an essential part of any designer's arsenal.

14. Use Iconic Terrazzo

You can't talk about Mid-Century Modern kitchen design without mentioning terrazzo. You can use it on your floors, countertops, or backsplash - or all of the above.

Terrazzo is as diverse as it is iconic. The glass, granite, or marble chips in terrazzo create a stunning visual effect with lots of color. It's a great way to go minimal while keeping color on the table.

15. Bring the Outside In

You've already learned how plants and herbs can help bring some nature into your kitchen, but bringing the outside in involves more than just keeping your plants alive.

To effectively make your space feel as open and natural as possible, you need a combination of plants, natural materials, and big windows. Done well, this approach to design can make you feel like you're cooking in the middle of a forest.

16. Make a Statement With Starburst

If you want to truly embrace the idea of a vintage Mid-Century Modern kitchen, you'll want to consider adding in some starburst.

Whether you opt for starburst patterns or a starburst pendant light, the shape is an iconic representation of Mid-Century design.

17. Open up Your Kitchen

If you have the opportunity to open up your kitchen, take it! This will help create that sense of airiness and simplicity that Mid-Century design is known for.

The space instantly becomes more inviting and can be decorated with Mid-Century Modern kitchen accessories like retro barstools.

18. Throw Down a Runner Rug

Another Mid-Century Modern kitchen trend that's making a comeback is the runner rug. These rugs are great for adding a pop of color or pattern to your kitchen and can really help tie the space together. Plus, they're easy to clean, which is always a bonus in the kitchen.

19. Put up Some Pendant Lights

Pendant lights are a great way to add a touch of Mid-Century Modern style to your kitchen while brightening up the space. They can be hung over your kitchen island or sink area and come in a variety of different styles.

Look for pendant lights with interesting shapes or materials like brass or glass. A popular style of pendant light in Mid-Century design is the "sputnik" light, which has multiple arms and bulbs.

20. Hide Your Fridge With Wood Paneling

Appliances can be a bit of an eyesore in any kitchen, but especially in Mid-Century Modern kitchens where clean lines and simplicity are key.

One way to help hide your appliances is by using paneling. This can be done by adding some simple wood panels to the front of your fridge or dishwasher. You can also find appliances that come with paneling already attached.

21. Welcome the Wallpaper Revival

If you're looking for a Mid-Century Modern kitchen that's a little bit more on the bold side, then you may want to consider adding some wallpaper.

Wallpaper is making a big comeback in all types of design, and Mid-Century Modern kitchens are no exception. There are tons of great Mid-Century Modern wallpaper designs to pick from, so you should have no trouble finding something that fits your style.

Adding some wallpaper to your Mid-Century Modern kitchen can really help give it some personality and can be a unique statement piece.

22. Bring Out the Brick

If you have brick walls in your Mid-Century Modern kitchen, why not show 'em off?

Brick can really add some texture and depth to your kitchen, so don't be afraid to let it take center stage.

You can either leave the brick exposed or paint it a color that complements the rest of your kitchen. Either way, showing off your brick walls is a great way to add some 1950s flair to your space.

23. Get Geometric

Another great way to add some Mid-Century Modern swagger to your kitchen is by playing with geometric patterns.

You can use them on your floors, walls, or backsplash. Adding geometric patterns is a great way to add some visual interest to your kitchen.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to geometric patterns, so get creative!

24. Dabble with Color Blocks

If you really want to make a statement in your Mid-Century Modern kitchen, then consider using color blocking.

Color blocking is when you use two or more bold colors together to create a visually striking effect.

When done right, color blocking can be a great way to add some serious style to your kitchen.

25. Embrace the Atomic Age

Atomic Age design is all about embracing the futuristic, space-age aesthetic of the Mid-Century.

If you want your kitchen to look straight out of "The Jetsons," this is the style for you. To get this look, consider using lots of chrome, plastic, and bold geometric patterns. And don't forget to add a pop of color here and there to really make things interesting.

26. Opt for Open Shelving

One of the defining characteristics of Mid-Century Modern design is its focus on simplicity and functionality. And one way to really embrace that aesthetic in your kitchen is to ditch the cabinets and go for open shelving instead.

Not only does this give you a chance to show off a little extra creativity with some colorful dishes, but it also makes your kitchen feel a lot more spacious and open.

27. Skip Shelving and Upper Cabinets Altogether

If you really want to go all out with the Mid-Century Modern look, then you can scrap shelving and upper cabinets altogether.

This might not be practical for everyone, but if you don't mind getting a little creative with your storage solutions, then it's definitely an interesting way to add some Mid-Century flair to your kitchen.

28. Add an Accent Door

One simple way to add a Mid-Century touch to your kitchen is to replace one of your doors with an accent door.

This can be a glass door, a wood panel door, or even just a brightly colored door. It's a small change that can make a big impact.

29. Take a Timeless Approach

Mid-Century Modern design has a timeless appeal that will never go out of style. That's why Mid-Century Modern kitchens have exploded in popularity in recent years.

To achieve this, avoid using too many trendy elements in your kitchen, as they will quickly date the space. This may mean forgoing the latest appliances or opting for more classic materials like marble or granite.

30. Revisit Linoleum and Laminate

Linoleum and laminate are two materials that were wildly popular in Mid-Century kitchens, though they have been viewed as dated in recent years.

Today, however, these materials are making a major comeback as homeowners look for ways to add personality to their kitchens.

To ensure your kitchen remains fresh and up to date, use these materials sparingly. A good way to do this is to use them on the backsplash or as accents on cabinets or islands.

31. Keep It Subtle

While Mid-Century kitchens are known for bold use of color and patterns, today's homeowners often opt for a subtler approach.

This doesn't mean your kitchen has to be boring - there are plenty of ways to add personality without going overboard.

For example, you could paint your cabinets in a light Mid-Century Modern color like mint green or sky blue. Or, you could use colorful accessories and appliances to add a bit of flair.

32. Be Effortlessly Eclectic

Some people make it look easy, but nailing an eclectic Mid-Century vibe is actually quite a feat. The key is finding commonalities between elements - like using similar colors or materials - and ensuring everything comes together cohesively.

Don't be afraid to dip into other styles, either. Tossing in a splash of Art Deco or including some industrial features is a great way to add visual interest and break up the Mid-Century vibes.

If you're not sure where to start, try picking one Mid-Century element you love and build your kitchen around it.

33. Experiment With Earthy Tones

Mid-Century Modern kitchen designs often feature earthy colors like olive green, burnt orange, and mustard yellow. While these tones might seem a little dated now, they can actually be surprisingly fresh when combined with the right materials and finishes.

Try pairing teak cabinetry with olive green walls, or using natural stone tiles in a burnt orange backsplash.

For a more subtle nod to Mid-Century style, try using these colors as accents rather than going all in on the 1950s aesthetic.

34. Mix and Match Your Metals

One of the defining characteristics of Mid-Century Modern design is its use of mixed metals.

For example, try using brass hardware with stainless steel appliances, or pairing copper pendant lights with silver drawer pulls. The important thing is to avoid using too many different metals, as this can start to look cluttered and busy.

A few well-placed mixed metal accents will add just the right amount of Mid-Century flair to your kitchen.

35. Consider an Oval Island

When deciding on a Mid-Century Modern kitchen island, don't rule out odd shapes.

An oval island is a great way to add a touch of the 1950s to your kitchen, and it can also help make the space feel more open and spacious.

If you're worried about an oddly shaped island not fitting into your kitchen layout, don't be - there are plenty of ways to make it work. You could try positioning the island in the center of the room or placing it at an angle in one of the corners.

Experiment until you find the perfect spot for your unique kitchen feature.

36. Mismatch Your Seating

If you have a breakfast nook or a Mid-Century kitchen table, go wild with the seating.

You can mix and match different chairs and benches to create a snazzy look. Not only will this add some personality to your kitchen, but it can also be a great way to save money.

Don't be afraid to get creative with your seating - mixing and matching different designs is part of what makes this style so special.

37. Get Your Gold On

Gold is making a big comeback in the world of interior design, and Mid-Century Modern kitchens are no exception.

Toy with the idea of incorporating gold fixtures, utensils, and even gold lighting. Just be sure not to go overboard - too much gold can be overwhelming. A little bit goes a long way in Mid-Century Modern design.

39. Find Some Retro Wall Art

No Mid-Century Modern kitchen is complete without some retro wall art. This can include vintage posters or a starburst wall clock.

Hang your wall art using simple, clean frames to keep the aesthetic alive and well. This is a great way to add some personality to your kitchen, so don't be shy.

40. Paint Your Island Another Color

If you have an island in your Mid-Century Modern kitchen, consider painting it a different color than the rest of your cabinets.

This will help it stand out and be a focal point in your kitchen. A pop of color is always a good idea and could make a great statement piece.

41. Be Bold With Your Backsplash

A Mid-Century Modern kitchen wouldn't be complete without a bold backsplash. There are so many great options out there, so you can definitely find something that fits your style.

From geometric patterns to colorful mosaics, there are plenty of options to explore. Consider a backsplash that extends all the way up to the ceiling for a truly bold look.

There you have it! 41 Mid-Century Modern kitchen ideas to help you get started on the kitchen of your dreams.

Mid Century Modern Kitchen FAQs

What is a Mid-Century Modern kitchen?

A Mid-Century Modern kitchen is a kitchen that is designed to replicate those of the mid-1900s. While it may be difficult to source original materials and appliances from that time period, creating a Mid-Century Modern-inspired kitchen is easier than ever.

What are some features of a Mid-Century Modern kitchen?

Some Mid-Century kitchen features include clean lines, minimal ornamentation, natural materials, integrated appliances and storage, and bright pops of color. Bringing all of these elements together can create a stunning space that you'll love spending time in.

What is the Mid-Century vibe?

The mid-century vibe is all about simplicity, functionality, and open space. Mid-Century Modern kitchens often incorporate wood cabinets, tile floors, and large windows to help bring the outside in.

How do you soften up a modern kitchen?

If you want to soften up a modern kitchen, try adding mid-century modern elements. Use warm woods, organic materials, and vintage-inspired appliances and fixtures to help the space feel more natural and less stuffy.

Remember to keep things simple and focus on clean lines and natural elements. And most importantly, enjoy the process!

Ready to get started on your dream kitchen? Check out our vast selection of quality kitchen cabinets to help you save time and money on your remodel!