Vintage style is making a comeback in kitchen design, with bold colors, patterns, and the sleek silhouettes of retro appliances setting the tone. Retro fridges, ovens, and mixers combine nostalgic charm with modern convenience, allowing you to recreate a funky mid-century vibe or embrace the kitschy 1950s kitchen of your dreams. This guide covers everything you need to know about shopping for and decorating with retro kitchen appliances.
Introduction to Retro Kitchen Appliances
Retro kitchen appliances offer the best of both form and function. Their throwback styling brings personality and a unique aesthetic to your cooking space, while innovative features provide contemporary ease of use.
Importance of Style and Function
When selecting retro appliances, you want appliances that are as practical as they are pretty. Look for models with finishes like mint green, bright red, turquoise, pink, and chrome that call to mind – the colorful designs of the 1950s-70s. At the same time, don’t sacrifice functionality by choosing style over performance. Seek out appliances with solid construction, energy efficiency, and the modern capabilities you need in a kitchen workhorse.
Trends in Kitchen Design: The Retro Revival
While many kitchen trends come and go, the retro revival has remained popular for years and doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. There are several reasons for retro appliances’ ongoing appeal:
- Nostalgia. Retro styling reminds many people of cherished childhood memories and warmer, simpler times. Cooking in a vintage-inspired kitchen can feel comforting and familiar.
- Individuality. Retro appliances allow you to give your kitchen a look that is distinctly yours, reflecting your taste.
- Durability. They often feature higher-quality materials and construction compared to modern disposable appliances.
- Sustainability. Repairing and maintaining retro appliances is preferable to replacing new appliances every few years.
- Affordability. Classic retro appliances are often cheaper than luxury modern brands.
Top Retro Appliance Brands
Some mainstream manufacturers like GE offer retro collections. However, smaller boutique companies focus exclusively on vintage-inspired appliance design. Here are two of the most popular retro brands:
Big Chill
This Utah-based company gained fame when celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse featured their appliances on his show. Their inventory includes fridges, ranges, microwaves, and more styled after 1950s classics but with updated specs.
Smeg
An Italian brand, Smeg is known for ultra-sleek, curved fridges, and small appliances in bright retro colors like avocado green and creamy pastels with chrome accents.
Nostalgia Products
A retro line from Michigan-based Homewares, featuring unique items like a vintage-style popcorn cart and whimsical designs on appliances big and small.
Retro Refrigerators
The refrigerator is often the centerpiece of a retro kitchen. Here’s an overview of what to consider when buying a vintage-look fridge:
Features to Look For
- Well-insulated and energy-efficient
- Spacious 12-27 cubic ft. capacity
- Adjustable glass or wire shelves
- Bright interior lighting
- Vegetable and deli drawers
- Reversible door hinging
Popular Models and Brands
Smeg FAB50RR Retro Fridge – This curved-front, candy apple red fridge has a freezer drawer and door storage perfect for small kitchens.
Big Chill Original Fridge – Featuring chrome accents and a mint green or red enamel finish, its organization and storage options make it ideal for larger families.
Nostalgia 2-Door Fridge – At a budget-friendly price, this fridge/freezer combo comes in a range of retro colors to match any style.
Vintage-Inspired Ranges and Ovens
Ranges and ovens create the traditional “heart” of a retro kitchen. Here are tips for selecting the right one:
Combining Modern Features with Retro Design
Look for models that blend classic style with conveniences like:
- Self-cleaning mode
- Convection baking
- Precise digital temperature control
- Smooth cooktop surfaces
- Extra oven capacity like double ovens
Gas vs. Electric: What Fits Your Retro Kitchen Best?
Gas ranges provide more precise temperature control and faster boiling. But they do require professional installation and ventilation.
Electric models are cheaper and easier to install. But heat-up time is slower than gas.
Dual-fuel ranges combine gas cooktops with electric ovens for the best of both options.
Charming Retro Mixers
No retro kitchen is complete without an iconic mixer on the countertop. Here’s how to select the perfect vintage stand mixer:
Must-Have Features for Bakers
- Powerful motor (at least 300 watts)
- Multiple speeds
- Tilt-head design
- Attached bowl lift
- Included attachments like dough hooks, beaters, and whisks
Top Picks for Retro Kitchen Mixers
KitchenAid Artisan – With its range of retro colors and bowl options, this versatile mixer is ideal for most kitchens.
Smeg 50s Style Mixer – Its curved chrome design comes in fun colors like pink, mint green, cream, and Robin’s egg blue.
Hamilton Beach Retro Mixer – For larger volumes, its 450-watt motor handles double batches with ease.
Classic Toasters and Other Small Appliances
No retro kitchen would be complete without the charm of vintage-inspired countertop appliances:
Toasters with a Twist: Retro Design with Modern Technology
Look for extra-wide slots for thicker bread, push-button controls, and fun colors on models like:
- Dualit Classic
- Sunbeam Retro Series
- Smeg 2-Slice Retro
Coffee Makers, Microwaves, and More
Some other essential retro appliances include:
- Round Smeg kettles and 4-slice toasters
- The GE Classic Microwave with a retro analog dial
- Percolator coffee pots from Farberware and Nostalgia
Retro Kitchen Aesthetics
The right décor creates a cohesive retro vibe. Use these tips when designing your space:
Color Schemes and Decor Tips
- Stick to bright retro colors like turquoise, orange, mustard yellow, mint green, and pink
- Add classic black-and-white tile floors or vinyl
- Use vintage-look hardware like bakelite knobs and handles
- Display kitschy 1950s kitchen signs and canisters
- Add character with subway tile, wallpaper, or retro fabric curtains
How to Choose Appliances That Complement Your Kitchen’s Theme
Pick finish colors to match your cabinets and décor. For a uniform look, purchase appliances from the same manufacturer in the same collection.
The Appeal of Retro Kitchen Appliances
There are many reasons retro appliances continue to enchant kitchen designers:
Why Retro Style Continues to Charm
- Distinctive, personality-filled design you won’t find in modern minimalism
- Nostalgic familiarity and comfort
- Vintage charm at an affordable price point
- Options to perfectly match your taste and style
- Enduring popularity as classics never go out of fashion
Benefits of Retro Appliances in Contemporary Kitchens
- Add warmth, color, and approachability to sleek, uniform spaces
- Provide a unique focal point and conversation starter
- Increased durability and longevity over appliance trends
- Easy to incorporate into kitchens of any era
- Allow you to recreate beloved childhood memories through design
Installing and Maintaining Retro Appliances
Follow these tips to keep your retro appliances looking their best:
Installation Tips for Vintage-Look Appliances
- Have a professional install gas appliances to ensure proper ventilation and hookups.
- Clean the area thoroughly and measure carefully to create a seamless fit.
- Follow manufacturer instructions for installing slide-in or drop-in retro ranges.
- Allow proper air circulation space around refrigerators.
Maintenance and Care for Long-Lasting Use
- Gently hand-wash colorful exteriors to preserve the finish. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Use glass cleaner and soft cloths on stainless steel and chrome.
- For enameled surfaces, wipe down with warm soapy water but avoid metal scouring pads.
- Descale kettles and other appliances are prone to mineral buildup.
- Replace old parts like seals and liners when needed to improve efficiency.
Eco-Friendly and Energy-Efficient Retro Appliances
Finding Green Options in Retro Designs
- Choose models with automatic sleep or power-saving modes.
- Opt for gas-range cooktops and electric ovens for efficiency.
- Purchase appliances with long lifespans and durable parts that can be repaired.
Tips for Sustainable Kitchen Practices
- Let appliances cool before washing to save water.
- Use washable cloths instead of paper towels for spills.
- Turn off appliances at the power source when not in use.
- Compost food scraps to reduce waste.
- Line-dry dishes. Skip the dry cycle on your dishwasher.
- Follow energy-saving cooking methods like using lids, batch baking, and turning off appliances a few minutes early.
Accessorizing Your Retro Kitchen
Vintage-inspired accessories give the finishing touch to your retro space.
Selecting the Perfect Retro Accessories
Small Appliances | Décor |
---|---|
Coffee makers | Signs |
Stand mixers | Canisters |
Toasters | Kitchen linens |
Kettles | Salt-and-pepper shakers |
Blenders | Cookbooks |
Ideas for a Complete Retro Kitchen Look
- Display brightly colored Fiestaware dishes.
- Decorate with kitschy 1950s travel posters.
- Adorn with vintage tin lunchboxes or retro radio.
- Add accents like an old-school egg crate, bread box, or wall-mounted rotary phone.
- Place cookbooks prominently for a homey effect.
Retro Kitchen Renovation Ideas
Ready to re-do your entire cooking space with retro flair? Use these tips:
Planning Your Retro Kitchen Remodel
- Determine your budget and which appliances or features are essential.
- Select a retro color palette and style vibe, from 1950s pink to 1970s harvest gold.
- Take measurements and create a floor plan with your must-have items.
- Research local contractors experienced in the period renovation.
Budgeting for Your Dream Retro Kitchen
Retro kitchen remodels can range drastically in price. Here are some typical costs to factor in:
Item | Cost |
---|---|
Cabinetry | $2,000-$10,000 |
Countertops | $1,500-$5,000 |
Sink and faucet | $200-$2,000 |
Lighting | $500-$2,000 |
Paint | $100-$500 |
Flooring | $500-$5,000 |
Major appliances | $2,000-$10,000 |
Total estimate | $6,800-$35,500 |
Prices vary based on materials, size, existing infrastructure, and custom work.
The Future of Retro Kitchen Appliances
While vintage designs show no signs of going out of style, here are some innovations still to come:
Innovations in Retro Appliance Design
- Energy efficiency increases with improved insulation and lower energy use
- Integrated technologies like WiFi connectivity and touchscreens
- Capabilities meeting demand for specialty cooking like sous vide, indoor grilling, and more
- Streamlined production methods lowering costs
What to Expect in Upcoming Models
We’ll see retro appliances that:
- Bridge classic and contemporary with smarter features
- Provide premium performance to match their style
- Are more budget-friendly and widely accessible
- Offer personalized customization options
- Come in more colors, prints, and finishes
- Include advanced but user-friendly cooking modes
The retro trend endures by adapting to cooks’ changing needs while retaining its signature charm.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Hear first-hand from enthusiastic owners of retro appliances:
What Buyers Love About Their Retro Appliances
“I never thought I could fall in love with a stand mixer until I got my Sunbeam. It’s like having a kitchen assistant right on my counter.”
“The Big Chill fridge we bought looks straight out of the 1950s but runs whisper quiet. It’s a showstopper kitchen centerpiece.”
“I can’t imagine making toast in anything but my Dualit toaster. It works perfectly every time and just fits my vintage kitchen aesthetic.”
“The retro vibe of our Smeg mixer and refrigerator makes cooking and baking feel more fun. The colors energize the whole room.”
Tips from Owners for Choosing the Right Products
- Make sure to measure your space carefully for the perfect retrofit.
- Read reviews and talk to retailers thoroughly before purchasing.
- Be prepared for longer shipping times on some retro brands.
- If you want matching suites, buy all from the same collection.
- Don’t sacrifice function for aesthetics – make sure it meets your everyday needs.
Where to Buy Retro Kitchen Appliances
You can find retro appliances both online and in stores:
Online Retailers and Specialty Stores
- Direct from manufacturer websites like Smeg, KitchenAid, and Big Chill
- Vintage sellers on Etsy and eBay
- Specialty vintage appliance sites like RetroRenovation and ToTheKitchenAndBeyond
- Major retailers like Wayfair, Home Depot, and Best Buy
Tips for Finding Deals and Discounts
- Look for holiday sales around Black Friday and Labor Day
- Sign up for brand email lists for promotions
- Check warehouse stores like Costco
- Follow retailers on social media for flash sales
- Use coupons from circulars and food magazines
- Buy open boxes and refurbished appliances to save
Conclusion: Embracing the Retro Kitchen Trend
Summing Up the Appeal of Retro Kitchen Appliances
With their enduring popularity, retro appliances offer a chance to add style, nostalgia, and customization to your cooking space. Blending form and function, they deliver modern performance with heaping helpings of charm.
Final Thoughts on Creating Your Retro Kitchen Oasis
Give your kitchen a renewed life by embracing retro. With some planning and smart shopping, you can craft a vintage-inspired space that is distinctly you. Whether you go for ’50s kitsch or ’70s earth tones, let these timeless appliances fill your kitchen with warmth, personality, and delightful design only the retro look provides.