5 Mid-century modern kitchen ideas for an uber cool makeover

Mid-century modern kitchen ideas are classic, some designs just have real staying power and are in the top kitchen trends year after year. So we thought it was about time to give these retro kitchens the attention they deserve and create a gallery of our five top looks that are easy to recreate without ripping out your current kitchen...

For more kitchen ideas make sure you check out our hub page, and we have a whole gallery of Mid-century modern decor ideas too. 

1. Add Mid-century modern freestanding kitchen furniture

If you are looking for a simple way to bring that Mid-century vibe into your kitchen, freestanding furniture is a great way to do it. You can just incorporate it into your current space. We think dressers are the best pieces to look out for because they provide so much extra kitchen storage too. Keep your eyes peeled on eBay for bargain finds. 

2. Go for a bold color and simple cabinets

Painting kitchen cupboards can breathe new life into your space and give it a whole new look in just a weekend. When we think Mid-century colors, oranges and yellows  are definitely what come to mind first – so why not be bold and try painting your cabinets in one of these sunny hues. Keep the walls and floors light and it's doesn't overwhelm the space at all, in fact it looks really fresh in this Mid-century kitchen. 

3. Switch up your handles for a Mid-century feel

Painted your cabinets and want even more of a retro look? Handles. Mid-century modern handles. Just switch out your old ones to match the vibe you want to go for, we love a simple gold door pull but sculptural wooden handles can look really cool too if you want a more traditional look. 

4. Pick sculptural dining pieces 

Speaking of sculptural, Mid-century design is all about those unusual shapes so get some of them in your home! Dining chairs would be our first point of call, there are so many affordable dupes out there for classic Mid-century styles. Tables too, even if you don't have a large dining room a circular table can be squeezed into a kitchen instead.

5. Fill open shelves with retro kitchenware

Get thrifting for crockery, vases, glassware, any knick-knacks that you think have a Mid-century modern vibe. Display them on shelves in your kitchen to add color and quirk –the more unusual the better. Also, check out Etsy if there is something particular you are after, they have loads of Mid-century modern decor at great prices.

Read more:

• Retro kitchens: 11 funky ideas to inspire your design
• Vintage bedroom ideas: 13 retro looks for your boudoir
• 21 kitchen paint ideas – beautiful colours to update your space